WHERE TO STAY

MATOBO NATIONAL PARK Most of the park is accessible by 4x2. Entry fee is US$6 per person per day if you’re staying over in the park; US$12 per person for day visitors. There’s also a US$10 fee per vehicle per day. Visiting sites of interest like the grave of Rhodes and rock art shelters costs US$10 per person per day. A rhino walk costs US$35 per person (half a day) or US$70 (full day).

Maleme Rest Camp We camped, which didn’t require a booking as so few people visit and the campsite is big. Ask at reception which ablution facilities are in working order since only some are maintained. Camping costs US$27 per site per day for up to three people; US$54 per day for up to six people. Chalets from US$40 per night for two people. Lodge accommodation from US$150 per night for five people. Some lodges and chalets have refurbished kitchens and all are clean and tidy. Bring your own food. GPS: S20.55070 E28.50796 (Maleme reception) Contact: Reservations 00 263 4 706 077/8 (be patient); bookings@zimparks.co.zw; zimparks.org

Big Cave Camp This camp is beautifully located, built onto the rocks just outside the park. The campsite doesn’t have quite the same view as the lodge, but it’s neat and it has a lekkerlooking bar. Camping costs US$15 per person; lodge accommodation from US$145 per person sharing (full board). Children under 12 pay half-price (no discount for camping). Lodge prices come down during the “green season” (summer). Prices go up in 2017. GPS: S20.50392 E28.44529 Contact: 00 263 9 244 990; bigcavematopos.com Farmhouse This is a really good option just outside the border of the park. The campsite is a couple of kilometres from the main lodge and spread out over a big area on top of a rise, overlooking Matobo in the distance. Camping: US$15 per person. Lodge accommodation: US$70 per person sharing, including breakfast. They offer activities like horse trails, bush walks and mountain biking, and you can sign up to do rhino tracking in the park (US$55 per person, excluding park fee). GPS: S20.50789 E28.43531 Contact: 00 263 383 218; 00 263 77 954 4293; bookings @farmhousematopos.com

GREAT ZIMBABWE Give yourself enough time here – half a day minimum, longer if you’re a photographer and you want to make the best of the light in different locations. Wear comfortable shoes and carry enough water with you. Entrance costs US$15 per adult (unguided); US$18 with a guide; children aged 5 – 12 pay US$8 (unguided); US$9 (guided).

Norma Jeane’s Lake View Resort This is by far the best and most affordable place to stay near Great Zimbabwe. You can order meals, and the beautiful garden around the main buildings is an attraction in itself. Camping costs US$13 per person. A standard room costs US$30 per adult sharing; US$20 per child under 12. Self-catering lodge US$50 per adult sharing; US$30 per child under 12. Bed and breakfast is also available. Prices may change – they may actually come down, says Norma Jeane! GPS: S20.25167 E31.00273