Zimbabwe Painting Safari

June 4–16, 2027

Experience Zimbabwe through the eyes of an artist.

Join me for an unforgettable 13-day journey where breathtaking wildlife, inspiring landscapes, and meaningful cultural connections come together to create an experience unlike any other. Whether you're a watercolor artist, work in another medium, or simply love art and adventure, this trip is designed to deepen your creativity while exploring one of Africa's most remarkable destinations.

We'll witness elephants gathering at waterholes, paint beneath African skies, meet local artists, and spend time creating alongside children in village schools. Along the way, you'll enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters, world-class accommodations, and plenty of opportunities to photograph, sketch, and simply soak in the beauty of Zimbabwe.

Tentative Itinerary

Day 1 – Welcome to Zimbabwe
Arrive in Victoria Falls and settle into the beautiful Zambezi Boutique Hotel. Meet your fellow travelers and enjoy a relaxing evening as we prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2 – Victoria Falls
Experience one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Visit spectacular viewpoints, enjoy lunch overlooking the gorge at the famous Lookout Café, and for those seeking adventure, optional activities such as the exhilarating zipline across the gorge are available.

Day 3 – Up Close with Elephants
Spend time with rescued elephants in an unforgettable ethical elephant encounter. In the evening, experience Zimbabwean culture through music, dancing, and traditional cuisine at the renowned Boma Dinner.

Day 4 – Zimbabwe Through an Artist's Eyes
Meet local Zimbabwean artists, learn about their creative process, and spend the day painting and sharing ideas. End the day with a sunset dinner cruise along the Zambezi River, where wildlife is often seen along the banks.

Day 5 – Into Hwange National Park
Travel to Hwange National Park and settle into Robin's Camp or Detema Safari Lodge, surrounded by one of Africa's finest wildlife reserves.

Day 6 – Safari Adventure
Spend the day exploring Hwange on professionally guided game drives in search of elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, leopards, and countless other species.

Day 7 – Paint the African Wilderness
Enjoy a dedicated painting day inspired by the incredible scenery and wildlife. We'll paint from safe lookout locations before heading out on another afternoon game drive.

Day 8 – Giving Back
Return to Victoria Falls and spend the day at a local school, sharing art with the children through creative activities and cultural exchange.

Day 9 – Creating Together
Continue painting and interacting with local students while participating in meaningful outreach projects that encourage creativity and connection.

Day 10 – Local Culture
Visit artisan markets, meet additional local artists, and discover the techniques and traditions behind Zimbabwean craftsmanship. There will also be time to shop for unique handmade souvenirs.

Day 11 – Creative Reflection
A relaxed painting day to develop your sketches, watercolor studies, and photographs into finished artwork while surrounded by the inspiration of Africa.

Day 12 – A Grand Finale
See Victoria Falls from an entirely new perspective during an unforgettable helicopter flight. Afterwards, enjoy an optional cheetah experience before gathering for our farewell dinner together.

Day 13 – Departure
Travel home with incredible memories, new friendships, and a sketchbook full of inspiration—or extend your adventure with an optional 2–3 night safari in Botswana.

More Than a Painting Trip

This journey is about slowing down and experiencing Zimbabwe in a meaningful way. You'll leave with far more than reference photos—you'll return home with stories, friendships, artistic inspiration, and memories that will continue to influence your artwork for years to come.

Whether you're an experienced artist or simply someone who loves to create, this adventure will nourish both your artistic spirit and your sense of wonder.

Please note: This itinerary is subject to change as we continue refining the experience to create the best possible adventure for our group.

For more information, please contact me at [email protected] or Courtney Messick at [email protected]