Top travel destinations in Zimbabwe range from some of the most popular natural wonders in the world to unique man made hidden gems.
Zimbabwe is a country where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with stunning natural beauty, creating an unparalleled travel experience.
As a travel enthusiast, I have managed visit some of the country’s best tourist destinations and in this article I will be giving you insights on some of the best places to visit.
The country is home to one of the world’s most spectacular wonders, Victoria Falls, while also offering expansive national parks teeming with wildlife, historic ruins that whisper stories of a rich past and vibrant cities buzzing with life.
From the lush, mist-covered Eastern Highlands to the sun-soaked savannahs of Hwange, Zimbabwe welcomes adventurers and nature lovers alike.
My Top Travel Destinations in Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls
Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders,” Victoria Falls is undoubtedly Zimbabwe’s most iconic travel destination.
Located on the Zambezi River, the falls form the largest sheet of falling water in the world, making it one of the Seven Natural Wonders.
Spanning 1,708 meters and plunging over 100 meters into a dramatic gorge, the sight of Victoria Falls is simply breathtaking.
A visit to the Victoria Falls rainforest, where the mist from the falls creates a lush, tropical environment is something that will definitely leave a lasting impression.
For thrill-seekers, the area around Victoria Falls offers an abundance of adventure activities.
Visitors can go white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, bungee jump from the 111-meter-high Victoria Falls Bridge or take a scenic helicopter ride over the falls for an unforgettable bird’s-eye view.
More laid back options include sunset river cruises where hippos, elephants, crocodiles and various other animals are often spotted.
The town of Victoria Falls caters well to tourists, with a wide range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses.
For those who want to experience local cuisine in a traditional setup, the Boma Dinner and Drum Show is something that’s worth checking out.
Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest and most diverse wildlife reserve, covering an impressive 14,600 square kilometers.
Located in the north-western corner of the country, it is a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and safari-goers.
Hwange is home to more than 100 species of mammals, including the famed Big Five, which are lions, elephants, leopards, rhinoceros and buffalo.
The park is particularly renowned for its elephant population, one of the largest in Africa, with thousands of these gentle giants roaming the park.
Visitors can embark on guided game drives or walking safaris to get up close with the wildlife, including cheetahs, giraffes and African wild dogs.
Birdwatchers will also be in their element, as Hwange boasts over 400 species of birds.
Accommodation options within the park range from luxury lodges, such as the famous Somalisa Camp to more affordable campsites.
Most lodges offer full-service safari experiences, including game drives, bush walks, and expert guides who provide deep insights into the park’s ecosystem.
Great Zimbabwe Ruins
The Great Zimbabwe Ruins are one of Africa’s most significant archaeological sites and a testament to the ingenuity of the ancient Shona civilization.
Situated near the town of Masvingo, these stone ruins date back to the 11th century and once served as the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe.
The ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage site and are among the most remarkable pre-colonial structures in sub-Saharan Africa.
The most impressive feature is the Great Enclosure, a massive stone wall that stands 11 meters high and extends for 250 meters.
The precision with which these stone blocks were fitted together without mortar demonstrates the sophisticated engineering skills of the ancient builders.
Visitors can explore the ruins with the help of knowledgeable guides who offer insight into the history, significance and legends surrounding the site.
In addition to the ruins, the nearby town of Masvingo offers several accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses and lodges, making it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region.
Eastern Highlands
Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands are a striking contrast to the country’s savannahs and lowlands, offering a cool, misty mountain retreat.
Stretching along the eastern border with Mozambique, this region is known for its dramatic landscapes, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls.
The Highlands are divided into three main areas, that is Nyanga, Chimanimani and Vumba.
- Nyanga is a favorite destination for hikers and nature lovers and it is home to Zimbabwe’s highest peak, Mount Nyangani. The area is also known for its picturesque waterfalls, such as Mutarazi Falls, which are among the highest in Africa. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or fishing in the clear mountain streams.
- Chimanimani is another hiker’s paradise, with rugged mountains and scenic trails that lead through forests, caves, and waterfalls. It is also a hotspot for biodiversity, home to rare plant species and a variety of wildlife.
- Vumba offers a more tranquil experience, with rolling green hills and mist-covered landscapes. The Vumba Botanical Gardens are a highlight, showcasing a variety of indigenous and exotic plant species. This area is ideal for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in a serene setting.
Matobo National Park
Located just outside the city of Bulawayo, Matobo National Park is famous for its unique granite rock formations and its cultural significance. The park is home to the Matobo Hills, an area filled with towering boulders and ancient rock art created by the San people thousands of years ago. These paintings provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early hunter-gatherers and their connection to the land.
In addition to its cultural heritage, Matobo is also an important wildlife sanctuary. It is one of the best places in Zimbabwe to see both black and white rhinoceros, as well as leopards and a variety of bird species, including the world’s highest concentration of black eagles.
A visit to the park can also include a hike to World’s View, where the grave of British imperialist Cecil Rhodes is located. From this vantage point, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it a must-see spot for photographers.
Lake Kariba
Lake Kariba is a vast, serene body of water that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Formed by the damming of the Zambezi River in the 1950s, Lake Kariba is one of the world’s largest artificial lakes and a haven for both wildlife and water-based activities.
Visitors to Lake Kariba can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing along the lake’s shores, which are home to elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a diverse range of bird species. One of the most unique ways to experience the lake is by staying on a houseboat, which allows travelers to explore its many inlets and enjoy spectacular sunsets from the water.
Kariba town offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious lakeside lodges to more affordable guesthouses. It’s also a great base for exploring Matusadona National Park, which borders the lake and offers excellent opportunities for game viewing.
Mana Pools National Park
Mana Pools National Park is located in the northern part of Zimbabwe and is known for its stunningscenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.
The park is located on the banks of the Zambezi River and is home to a wide range of wildlife,including elephants, lions, leopards, and wild dogs.
Just like many other parks in the country game drives, safaris, and canoeing on the river and some ofthe activities worth checking out.
The park is also known for its stunning sunsets and the opportunity to see wildlife up close andpersonal.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or just a relaxing getaway,Zimbabwe has it all.
If you’re planning a trip to Southern Africa, be sure to include Zimbabwe on your itinerary anddiscover all that this amazing country has to offer.
Gonarezhou National Park
Situated in southeastern Zimbabwe, Gonarezhou National Park is famed for its rugged landscapes and towering elephants, earning it the name “Place of Elephants.”
It is Zimbabwe’s second-largest national park and one of the country’s mostremote and untouched wilderness areas.
This vast wilderness forms part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, connecting Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique.
Visitors can marvel at the iconic Chilojo Cliffs, red sandstone formations that dramatically overlook the Runde River.
The park is a haven for wildlife, including lions, buffalo, and the rare nyala antelope.
Birdwatchers will also delight in spotting over 400 avian species.
Gonarezhou offers self-drive safaris, guided tours, and eco-lodges that blend seamlessly with nature, providing an immersive safari experience.
Chizarira National Park
For those seeking solitude and raw beauty, Chizarira National Park is a hidden treasure.
Located in the northwestern region, this remote park is perched on the Zambezi Escarpment, offering sweeping views of the Zambezi Valley.
The park’s rugged terrain is a sanctuary for elephants, leopards, and the elusive black rhino.
With fewer visitors than other parks, it promises an intimate wildlife encounter.
Chizarira is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 350 species, including the African broadbill and Taita falcon.
Adventurous travelers can explore hiking trails that weave through gorges and escarpments, revealing stunning vistas.
Accommodation options range from basic campsites to exclusive safari lodges, ensuring a tailored experience for every traveler.
Harare and Bulawayo
Zimbabwe’s two largest cities, Harare and Bulawayo, each have their own distinct appeal for travelers.
Harare, the capital, is a bustling metropolis that offers a mix of modern amenities and cultural attractions.
The National Gallery of Zimbabwe, with its impressive collection of contemporary and traditional African art, is a must-visit, as is the Mbare Musika market, where visitors can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of Zimbabwean daily life.
Bulawayo, the country’s second-largest city, is known for its wide tree-lined streets and colonial architecture.
It serves as a gateway to Matobo National Park and is also home to the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, one of the best in southern Africa, showcasing the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Both cities offer a variety of dining, shopping and entertainment options, as well as a range of accommodations to suit all budgets.
Conclusion
Zimbabwe is a country brimming with diverse landscapes, from the roaring Victoria Falls to the serene Eastern Highlands and the wildlife-rich national parks. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or simply in search of natural beauty, Zimbabwe’s destinations offer a little something for every traveler.