Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a destination that often flies under the radar for travelers, yet it offers a remarkable range of experiences. The country is home to some of the continent’s most striking natural wonders, diverse wildlife, and vibrant communities. Beyond the iconic Victoria Falls, you'll find national parks filled with unique ecosystems, and ancient ruins that reveal Zimbabwe’s deep history.

4 reasons to visit Zimbabwe

Why visit ZImbabwe? Here are four reasons to start: 

1. For world-class safari experiences and abundant wildlife

Zimbabwe is famous for its amazing wildlife and top-tier safari experiences. Hwange National Park, one of the largest national parks in Africa, boasts a vast population of elephants, along with lions, cheetahs, and African wild dogs. Another highlight is Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can catch sight of hippos, crocodiles, and rare birds. 

2. To see Zimbabwe’s landscapes

From the mist-covered peaks of the Eastern Highlands to the sprawling savannas of Matabeleland, Zimbabwe’s scenery is incredibly diverse and largely untouched by mass tourism. Whether you're looking to fish, canoe, or just relax, the country's rivers—like the Zambezi and Limpopo—offer perfect spots. Lake Kariba, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, is ideal for houseboat trips, while the Chimanimani Mountains provide stunning hiking trails.

3. To experience Zimbabwe culture

One of the best things about visiting Zimbabwe is experiencing its warm, welcoming culture. The Shona and Ndebele people, in particular, are known for their rich traditions, which are often expressed through lively music, dance, and art. You can visit local villages to see these traditions in action and learn about Mbira music, a storytelling method through song. Zimbabwe is also famous for its stone sculptures, which reflect deep spiritual beliefs. Cultural festivals like the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) are great ways to experience the country’s artistic and cultural pride.

4. For adventure activities

For thrill-seekers, Zimbabwe won’t disappoint. Victoria Falls is not only a breathtaking natural wonder but also a hub for thrilling activities like bungee jumping, zip-lining over Batoka Gorge, and white-water rafting on the Zambezi River. Matobo National Park offers rock climbing, while the Zambezi Valley is perfect for canoe safaris.

Top 5 Places to Visit in Zimbabwe

There are plenty of things to do in Zimbabwe, but here are our top five places to visit:

#1: Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is Zimbabwe’s most famous attraction, and for good reason. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or "The Smoke That Thunders," it's one of the largest and most powerful waterfalls in the world, stretching over a mile wide and dropping 355 feet (108 meters) into the Zambezi Gorge. You can take in breathtaking views while walking along the trails, but for something more exciting, why not try a helicopter ride? 

#2: Hwange National Park

As Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve, Hwange National Park covers around 5,657 square miles (14,650 sq km) and is home to an amazing variety of wildlife, including more than 40,000 elephants. It's a paradise for wildlife lovers, with over 100 species of mammals and 400 species of birds. On game drives, you're likely to spot lions, buffalo, giraffes, and even the rare African wild dog. One unique feature of Hwange is its underground hides, where you can watch animals gather at waterholes without being seen.

#3: Great Zimbabwe

Step back in time with a visit to Great Zimbabwe, an ancient city that offers a glimpse into Africa’s rich history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe, thriving between the 11th and 15th centuries. The stone ruins, including the iconic Great Enclosure with its towering walls, are a masterpiece of early African architecture. A nearby museum adds more context, with displays of pottery, iron tools, and the famous Zimbabwe Bird—an important national symbol.

#4: Matobo National Park

Located in southwestern Zimbabwe, Matobo National Park is known for its stunning granite rock formations, called kopjes, shaped over millions of years. The park is a place of both natural beauty and spiritual significance, with ancient San rock art offering a window into early human history. Matobo is also a refuge for rhinos, and guided walking tours provide a rare chance to track black and white rhinos on foot.

#5: Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools is one of Africa’s most remote and unspoiled wildlife areas, located along the banks of the Zambezi River. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its large populations of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. One of the park’s unique features is that you can go on self-guided walking safaris, giving you the freedom to explore the wilderness up close. Canoeing on the Zambezi offers a peaceful way to observe animals from the water.

Practical travel tips

If you’re getting ready to head off to Zimbabwe, here are some tips to consider to make the most of your trip.

Getting there

If you're flying into Zimbabwe, Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare is your main gateway, with direct flights from cities like Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, and Dubai. For those heading straight to Victoria Falls, there’s also an international airport nearby, making your trip even smoother. If you prefer traveling overland, you can drive in from neighboring countries like South Africa and Zambia—just make sure to check road conditions and border requirements beforehand.

When to visit

The ideal time to explore Zimbabwe is during the dry season, from May to October. This is when wildlife gathers around water sources, giving you great opportunities for safari spotting. If you’re keen on walking safaris or canoeing, this is also the best time. Planning a trip to Victoria Falls? Aim for between February and April to catch the falls in full force right after the rainy season.

Travel requirements

For most nationalities, you’ll need a visa to enter Zimbabwe, which you can easily get on arrival or through their online eVisa system. Tourist visas generally allow you to stay for up to 30 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your trip, and have proof of onward travel. 

Health tips

Malaria precautions are a must, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season or heading to areas like Victoria Falls and Hwange. Bring anti-malarial medication and insect repellent. It’s also wise to talk to your doctor about vaccines for hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever. Stick to bottled or purified water to avoid any health issues, as tap water might not be safe to drink.