Zimbabwe Travel Guide

Zimbabwe offers an astounding variety of natural beauty for a small, landlocked country in southern Africa. It's a must-visit destination for active adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates spectacular scenery. Highlights include the iconic Victoria Falls, the massive granite boulders of the Matobo Hills, the lush Eastern Highlands, national parks teeming with wildlife, and the fascinating Great Zimbabwe ancient ruins. The capital city, Harare, also has a vibrant blend of culture, markets and green spaces.

The Victoria Falls are Zimbabwe's most famous attraction and are considered one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. This mile-wide (2km) curtain of water plunges into the Zambezi Gorge, creating a towering cloud of mist visible from miles away (sometimes up to 20 miles or 32 km). The area has earned a reputation as the 'adventure capital of Africa', offering high-adrenaline experiences such as one of the most thrilling white-water rafting routes on earth and a 364-foot (111m) bungee jump from the bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, scenic flights over the falls, tranquil sundowner cruises on the Zambezi River above the falls, and game-viewing safaris provide unforgettable ways to enjoy the area. Wildlife flourishes in the remote wilderness of the Zambezi Valley, national parks, and along the shores of Lake Kariba. Here, elephant, lion, buffalo, hippo, crocodile, and, in select areas, rhino roam freely. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mana Pools National Park is particularly renowned for its canoe safaris and rich diversity of game.

Hwange National Park, the largest in Zimbabwe, features vast saltpans and grassy plains that support one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in the country, including large herds of elephant. Lake Kariba, a man-made lake prized for both hydroelectric power and fishing, has striking scenery with its island-dotted waters and sun-bleached tree skeletons. Visitors can enjoy houseboat cruises, water sports, and exceptional wildlife viewing, including sightings of Nile crocodiles and hippos along the shoreline.

The warm hospitality and spectacular experiences that characterise this destination make holidaying here well worth the journey.