Wild Is Life & ZEN

Description

Looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience in Harare? Wild Is Life & ZEN sanctuary offers exactly that – but with a meaningful twist that sets it apart from your typical animal encounters. I’ve gotta tell you, this isn’t just another tourist spot – it’s a genuine sanctuary where rescued animals get a second chance at life.

The heart and soul of this place really shows in how they care for their residents. From gentle giants like elephants to the incredibly rare pangolins (y’know, those scaly anteaters that look like walking pinecones?), each animal has its own story of rescue and rehabilitation. And trust me, hearing these stories from the passionate caretakers makes the experience so much more meaningful than just snapping a few pics.

What really blew me away was the ZEN (Zimbabwe Elephant Nursery) section. These folks are doing incredible work with orphaned elephants, giving them the care and community they need to thrive. It’s amazing to see how the ellies interact with their caretakers – there’s such genuine trust and affection there.

Key Features

• Close encounters with rescued wildlife including elephants, giraffes, and pangolins
• Educational guided tours with knowledgeable staff who share each animal’s rescue story
• Zimbabwe Elephant Nursery (ZEN) facility for orphaned elephants
• Intimate small group experiences (remember, bookings are essential!)
• Conservation education programs
• Rehabilitation programs for injured and orphaned wildlife
• Tea service included with visits
• Professional wildlife photographers welcome
• Ethical animal interaction policies
• Support for local conservation initiatives

Best Time to Visit

Here’s the thing about timing your visit – Zimbabwe’s dry season (May to October) is your best bet. The weather’s more predictable, and you’ll catch most animals at their most active. I’d particularly recommend early mornings or late afternoons when the animals are up and about, avoiding that intense midday heat.

They run scheduled tours throughout the day, but from my experience, the morning sessions are extra special. There’s something magical about watching the sanctuary come to life as the sun rises. Plus, the elephants are usually super playful during their morning routine!

How to Get There

Getting to Wild Is Life isn’t complicated, but you’ll definitely want to plan ahead. It’s a short drive from central Harare, and most taxi drivers know the place well. If you’re driving yourself, the sanctuary provides detailed directions when you make your booking – which, BTW, is absolutely essential. Don’t even think about showing up without one!

Your best bet is to arrange transport through your hotel or a reliable local taxi service. The roads are decent, but having someone who knows the way makes life easier. Trust me on this one – I learned the hard way during my first visit!

Tips for Visiting

First things first – did I mention you need to book in advance? Seriously, don’t skip this step! This isn’t one of those places where you can just rock up and expect to get in. The sanctuary keeps their groups small to ensure the best experience for both visitors and animals.

Wear neutral-colored clothing (those bright Hawaiian shirts might look great on vacation, but they can spook the animals). Comfortable walking shoes are a must – you’ll be on your feet for a good couple of hours. And don’t forget your camera! The photo opportunities are incredible, especially during feeding times.

Bring some cash for the gift shop – they’ve got some really unique locally-made items that support conservation efforts. And speaking of support, consider making an additional donation if you can. Every bit helps keep this amazing sanctuary running.

Oh, and come with an open mind and heart. This isn’t your typical tourist attraction – it’s a working sanctuary where real conservation happens. Some stories might be tough to hear, but they’re important. And hey, seeing how these animals have recovered and thrived? That’s the kind of experience that’ll stick with you long after you’ve left Zimbabwe.

One last tip – bring a hat and sunscreen! The African sun can be pretty intense, even during cooler months. And you might want to pack some tissues… not saying you’ll cry when you hear some of the rescue stories, but… well, just bring them just in case!

Location

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