Ivan Carter Safaris, Zimbabwe

Ivan Carter and his team of professional guides and experienced camp staff have earned a reputation for being amongst the finest safari operators in Southern Africa. Ivan's principle areas of operation are in the Matusadona and Mana Pools National Parks of Zimbabwe.

		Vundu Camp - Mana Pools
Ivan Carter operates Vundu Camp in partnership with Dr and Mrs Swithun Mombeshora. It is set within the Mana Pools National Park, downstream from Ruckomechi and upstream of Nyamepi on the southern bank of the Zambezi River. This location is ideal for both walking and canoeing trails through this amazing World Heritage Site. More than 12,000 elephants live within the park and it is also one of the best places to see lion, as well as Zebra, kudu, eland, impala and other antelope species. Hippos and crocodiles frequent the river. There are over 380 species of woodland and waterbirds, including Lillian's lovebirds, Livingstone's flycatchers, kingfishers, herons, brilliantly coloured bee eaters, fish eagles, hornbills and doves. Canoe safari map of the Lower Zambezi

 

		Matusadona
Ivan has a similar walking safari operation based in Matusadona. This is a non-permanent and seasonal safari camp ideally located and equipped to take advantage of Matusadona's fine walking terrain, boat access to the Matusadona shoreline and the particularly good wildlife opportunities that the area offers. Matusadona is of course well recognised as one of the last wild sanctuaries of the "big five" and includes a healthy population of black rhino and what is now considered to be the highest population density of lions in Africa. [Find out more about Matusadona]

 

		The Tented Camps
These are classic tented camps set up in the tradition of the great days of African exploration - the standards of comfort and service are of the highest order. In this friendly and relaxed atmosphere, firm friendships are soon forged and the latest discoveries and finest safari tales are exchanged over dinner and around the campfire. The camps are run by two of Zimbabwe's most dedicated and reputable professional guides. "Our aim is to make your safari a rich and unforgettable experience. We cater for individuals, couples, families or small groups and each day's activity - whether walking, canoeing, game drives or simply relaxing in camp - is discussed and planned between you and your guides." Ivan's enthusiastic staff pride themselves on their personal and flexible approach, attention to detail and care for your safety and enjoyment.

 

		Vundu Camp Additional Information
The Camp Vundu is a classic tented camp situated on the bank of the Zambezi River, within Mana Pools National Park. Each of the six tents is furnished with either a double or two single beds, a bedside table and reading lights. At the front is a veranda looking on to the river, while at the back is an ensuite bathroom with shower, wash basin and WC. The loos are standard flush and there is hot and cold running water. The bathroom is surrounded by reed thatch walls but is otherwise open to the stars. Guides and Management The camp is run and managed by two of Zimbabwe's leading professional guides, who in conjunction with a resident guide ensure a high guide to guest ratio. If requested at the time of the booking, any group of four or more individuals can be allocated a private guide. For smaller groups, private guides can be arranged at an additional cost. CV's and profiles of each of our guides are available. In addition to the guides, the staff includes a chef, two waiters and two general camp hands. There is an excellent team spirit and everyone will do their utmost for their guests.

 

		Activities at Vundu Camp
Walking An experienced professional guide, who will share his knowledge and love of the bush, leads all walks. Walks are usually planned the night before and it is completely up to the guests how far or fast they want to go. It might take an hour or two to cover 100 meters, looking at and discussing the smaller wonders of nature such as ants, butterflies or wild flowers, or a couple of kilometres might be covered in the same time while tracking an animal or simply enjoying the wilderness. Canoeing Drifting silently down the Zambezi in a canoe is very hard to beat. The birdlife is tremendous and a great variety of larger animals, including elephant, are often seen coming to drink in the river and feed on the islands. Sunsets over the river are especially beautiful. Canoes are the stable Canadian standard with comfortable bucket seats. (No previous canoeing experience is needed.) Game Drives Many of the animals in Mana Pools and Matusadona have no fear of vehicles; as a result game drives can provide the best opportunities for good photographs. Our open landcruisers are custom fitted for the comfort of the guests. Pan Watching Time spent watching the interaction between different species or members of families of animals at these seasonal pools can be particularly rewarding.

 

		Months of operation
Vundu Camp is open from 15th April to 15th November. This is the period when we believe Mana Pools is at its best and our impact on the natural environment is minimal. Matusadona is accessible by boat or float plane all year round. Although our traditional safari season in Zimbabwe runs from June to late October, Matusadona is also particularly productive in the wet season and is therefore recommended at any time of year.

 

		Food and Drink
Meals are prepared and presented to a high standard in the tradition of an old safari. Typical meals may be as follows:- Breakfast Either traditional English style, with eggs, bacon, tomato and mushrooms etc or a lighter meal of cereals, yoghurt and fruit. Lunch/Brunch Cold meats, salads, cheeses and pies usually served as a buffet. Fresh fruit salads. Dinner Following drinks under the star, there is a three-course dinner each night. The main course will typically be casserole, barbecue or pot roast and fresh vegetables are served with each meal. An assortment of puddings follows. Drinks are available at all times and are part of the all-inclusive rate. Special dietary requirements for vegans, vegetarians and those with other dietary preferences are easily catered for - please ensure that we are well advised at the time of your booking.

 

		Transfers
Mana Pools: Due to Mana's remoteness, we recommend that guests arrive by light aircraft charter (usually from Kariba). Ivan's staff will meet them at the airstrip and drive them and their luggage to the camp. The road into Mana Pools is long, rough and dusty and we do not recommend it. Matusadona: The Matusadona camp is an hour's boat transfer from Kariba towards Spurwing Island and the Matusadona mainland. An attractive alternative into Matusadona is via float plane (available on special request)

 

		Reservations
Vundu is a permanent camp, the Matusadona camp is seasonal. Except by special request and payment of a supplement, the camps are not exclusive. As most guests are like-minded however, most people find that this is an advantage and many new friends can be made. There are no fixed arrival or departure days, but we do recommend a minimum of three nights at either camp to do the respective areas justice. Contact us by e-mail now or fill out our enquiry form.