Imvelo Safari Lodges
About Imvelo Safari Lodges
Safari operator managing multiple lodges in Hwange, including the unique Elephant Express rail service.
Pioneering Community-Based Conservation Safaris
Imvelo Safari Lodges is one of Zimbabwe's most respected safari operators, running a collection of camps and lodges in Hwange National Park and surrounding concessions. What distinguishes Imvelo is their deep commitment to community partnership — every lodge operates in collaboration with local communities who share directly in the tourism revenue.
The Lodges & Camps
Bomani Tented Lodge — On the southern boundary of Hwange, Bomani offers classic tented safari accommodation with stunning views over a productive waterhole. The Ngamo community is a co-partner, and cultural visits to the village are a highlight.
Camelthorn Lodge — An elegant 8-room lodge set among ancient camelthorn trees. Raised timber walkways connect the rooms to the main area, and the waterhole attracts elephants, buffalo, and predators daily.
Nehimba Lodge — Deep inside Hwange's wilderness, Nehimba is a remote, intimate camp surrounded by teak forest. Elephant herds visit the waterhole metres from the dining area.
Gorges Lodge — Perched on the edge of the Batoka Gorge near Victoria Falls, with vertiginous views 200 metres down to the Zambezi. Not a traditional safari lodge, but utterly unforgettable.
The Imvelo Difference
- Community partnership — Local communities own shares in the operation and receive direct revenue, employment, and infrastructure support
- Conservation impact — Anti-poaching patrols, waterhole maintenance, and wildlife monitoring are core activities
- Pump Run experience — Join the team on a morning waterhole maintenance run — a unique behind-the-scenes safari experience
- Walking safaris — Guided walks with professional guides offer intimate encounters with Hwange's wildlife
- Rail safari — The Elephant Express railcar journey from Dete to Hwange is a one-of-a-kind transfer experience
Who Should Choose Imvelo
Travellers who care about where their money goes. With Imvelo, your safari directly funds community development and conservation — it's tourism with meaning.
"The Pump Run alone was worth the trip. Watching elephants walk right past our vehicle to drink at a waterhole we'd just refilled — that's the real Africa." — Imvelo guest