Forbes Ranks Zimbabwe As The Best Country to Visit In 2025
As the travel world sets its sights on the most inspiring destinations for 2025, one country has captured the attention of experts and explorers alike.
That country is Zimbabwe.
Known for its breathtaking natural wonders, cultural depth and growing appeal among international travellers, the Southern African nation has been named by Forbes as the world’s best country to visit in 2025, ahead of several iconic destinations.
In a year when travellers are seeking meaningful experiences, Zimbabwe offers a rare combination of untouched wilderness, heritage, and authentic encounters — the kind that stays with you long after your journey ends.
A Natural Wonderland
Zimbabwe’s rise to the top of global travel lists is no surprise to those who know its landscapes.
At the heart of its allure stands Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders,” the waterfall draws travellers from every corner of the globe, its mist rising hundreds of meters into the air.
Beyond the falls, Hwange National Park offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa, home to vast elephant herds and diverse game.
Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, gives visitors the chance to experience nature on foot or by canoe, bringing a level of intimacy rarely found in modern safari experiences.
For those seeking cooler climates and serene escapes, the Eastern Highlands offer misty mountains, waterfalls and lush valleys — an ideal setting for hikers, photographers and travellers chasing tranquillity.
A Journey Through Time
Zimbabwe isn’t just a place of scenic beauty; it’s also a land of history and identity.
The Great Zimbabwe Ruins, from which the country takes its name, stand as silent testimony to a powerful civilisation that thrived centuries before colonial borders were drawn.
Their towering stone walls and intricate passageways offer a glimpse into an African past that continues to inspire pride today.
Modern cities such as Harare and Bulawayo are also becoming part of the story, with growing arts scenes, craft markets and a vibrant rhythm that blends tradition with modern life.
For many travellers, this mix of heritage and contemporary culture is what makes Zimbabwe unforgettable.
Why Zimbabwe As The Best Country to Visit in 2025
Several factors make this the perfect time to visit Zimbabwe.
Travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that feel less commercialised, and Zimbabwe still offers vast, wild landscapes without the heavy crowds found in more saturated markets.
The country has also invested in improving its tourism infrastructure, with upgraded lodges, improved access to key attractions and expanded flight routes.
At the same time, there’s a growing emphasis on sustainable tourism, ensuring that natural areas and communities benefit directly from increased travel.
The World’s Top Destinations
Zimbabwe may be at the top of the list, but it joins a collection of exceptional destinations around the world that have caught the attention of travel experts for 2025.
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Lithuania
This Baltic gem is renowned for its charming blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, complemented by tranquil lakes and a burgeoning food scene. It appeals especially to those seeking something less frantic — picturesque towns, serene natural escapes, and a strong sense of local heritage. -
Sri Lanka
Compact yet wildly varied, Sri Lanka offers lush tea plantations, golden beaches, diverse wildlife (including elephants, leopards, and a rich birdlife), and ancient ruins. Its terrain moves from misty hill towns to coastal shores in a matter of hours, making it appealing for travellers seeking richness in diversity without long travel times between biomes. -
South Korea
Here, the contrast is a draw: ultramodern cities like Seoul with neon, street food and technology, alongside serene Buddhist temples, historic villages, and dramatic coastal landscapes. South Korea’s ability to combine ultra-contemporary energy with deep cultural tradition is a big part of its appeal. -
Argentina
For those who love big landscapes, dramatic wilderness, wine, and rich culture, Argentina remains a favourite. Patagonia’s glaciers and mountains, the vineyards of Mendoza, tango in Buenos Aires — the country offers many flavours, both literally and figuratively. -
Morocco
Sensory overload in the best sense: labyrinthine medinas, ornate palaces, Saharan dunes, the High Atlas mountains. Morocco offers a kind of travel that engages all the senses — the colours, smells, tastes — along with adventure and immersion. -
Norway
For lovers of northern light, fjords, pristine wilderness, and clean air, Norway continues to be a bucket-list destination. Its dramatic coastlines, opportunities for outdoor adventures, and relatively low human impact make it ideal for those wanting nature, peace, and staggering views.
Travel That Stays With You
Visiting Zimbabwe is about more than ticking off sights. It’s about walking through ancient stone ruins and feeling their weight, hearing the thunder of Victoria Falls long before you see it, and watching elephants move silently through a golden savannah.
It’s about conversations with locals, shared meals, and stories that linger.
For travellers looking to make 2025 a year of meaningful journeys, Zimbabwe isn’t just a destination on a list — it’s the experience of a lifetime.