Burkes' Backpackers Paradise - Tshabalala Wildlife Sanctuary

Burkes' Backpackers Paradise is a guesthouse near Tshabalala Wildlife Sanctuary.

Location
Tshabalala Wildlife Sanctuary, Matobo & Southwest, Zimbabwe, Southern Africa
Type
camp
Coordinates
-20.215090, 28.600770
Price range
budget
Phone
+263-779-832-473
Website
https://www.burkes-paradise.com/
Activities
Spa
Amenities
Swimming Pool, Pool, Spa, Wi-Fi, Internet, Lounge

PlnrScore: 46/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

2159 species observed within 20 km, 27 mammals, 226 birds.

  • Spiny Bollworm (Insecta, 107 observations)
  • Peahen Moth (Insecta, 101 observations)
  • Calculator Ethmia (Insecta, 97 observations)
  • Laughing Dove (Aves, 95 observations)
  • African Red Toad (Amphibia, 93 observations)
  • Western Honey Bee (Insecta, 93 observations)
  • Common Bulbul (Aves, 92 observations)
  • Mango Eublemma (Insecta, 89 observations)
  • Pearl Grey Moth (Insecta, 87 observations)
  • Cabbage Cluster Caterpillar (Insecta, 83 observations)

Best Time to Visit Burkes' Backpackers Paradise

The best months to visit Burkes' Backpackers Paradise are March, April, May, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 20.43°C, rainfall 136.7mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 75.7%
  • February: Good, temperature 20.64°C, rainfall 117mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 73%
  • March: Great, temperature 20.37°C, rainfall 28.8mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 65.9%
  • April: Great, temperature 18.93°C, rainfall 22.5mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 61.7%
  • May: Great, temperature 16.76°C, rainfall 4.1mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 53.4%
  • June: Good, temperature 14.12°C, rainfall 5.6mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 55.1%
  • July: Great, temperature 14.04°C, rainfall 2.5mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 48.7%
  • August: Great, temperature 17.33°C, rainfall 2.4mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 44.2%
  • September: Great, temperature 20.64°C, rainfall 1.9mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 42.3%
  • October: Great, temperature 22.26°C, rainfall 22.7mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 46.2%
  • November: Great, temperature 22.77°C, rainfall 63.9mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 55%
  • December: Great, temperature 21.79°C, rainfall 139.8mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 67.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the real vibe at Burkes' Backpackers Paradise, and is it truly budget friendly?

We found Burkes' Backpackers Paradise to be a wonderfully relaxed and social spot, perfect for those watching their wallets. Don't expect five star luxury, but the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the prices are genuinely reasonable for Zimbabwe. It's a great base for exploring Tshabalala without breaking the bank.

Beyond the sanctuary, what else can we do to unwind at Burkes' Backpackers Paradise?

While the proximity to Tshabalala Wildlife Sanctuary is a huge draw, we love that Burkes' offers a surprisingly tranquil spa. It's the ideal place to soothe muscles after a day of game drives. We recommend booking a massage in advance, especially during peak season.

What wildlife can we realistically expect to see on a day trip from Burkes' to Tshabalala Wildlife Sanctuary?

Tshabalala is a gem for seeing a good variety of plains game. We've spotted herds of zebra, wildebeest, and impala on our visits, often with giraffes browsing nearby. While not guaranteed, elephant and buffalo are also present, making for exciting game viewing opportunities close to the lodge.

When is the absolute best time to visit Burkes' Backpackers Paradise for optimal wildlife viewing in Tshabalala?

We find the dry season, from May to October, offers the most rewarding wildlife viewing in Tshabalala. Water sources become scarce, concentrating animals, and the vegetation thins out making them easier to spot. The weather is also pleasantly cooler during these months, perfect for exploring.

What should we know about safety and getting around when staying at Burkes' Backpackers Paradise?

We felt quite secure during our stay at Burkes'. The lodge itself is well managed, and the staff are helpful with local advice. For excursions into Tshabalala, we recommend arranging transport through the lodge or hiring a reputable local guide to ensure a safe and informed experience.

Other Safari Lodges in Tshabalala Wildlife Sanctuary

Parks in Matobo & Southwest

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Zimbabwe

Travel advisory for Zimbabwe