Zimbabwe, located in the heart of Southern Africa, is a land of extraordinary beauty, rich history, and cultural depth.
Known for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife, the country offers travelers everything from breathtaking natural wonders to interesting manmade attractions.
Whether you’re in search of adventure, culture or relaxation, Zimbabwe promises an unforgettable experience.
Geography and Climate
Zimbabwe’s geography is as diverse as its people.
The country is bordered by Zambia, Mozambique, Botswana, and South Africa, with the mighty Zambezi River carving out the natural wonder of Victoria Falls on its northern edge.
The Limpopo River, to the south, offers a striking contrast to the rugged Eastern Highlands, home to rolling hills and mist-covered mountains.
The country enjoys a subtropical climate, with the dry season (April to October) being ideal for safaris and outdoor exploration.
During the rainy season (November to March), the landscape transforms into a lush green which is perfect for photography.
The best months to visit depend on your activities, but for wildlife viewing, the cooler months between May and September are more popular.
Culture and People
Zimbabwean culture is woven from the traditions of the Shona and Ndebele people, who make up the majority of the population.
From stone sculpture to intricate beadwork, the country’s arts and crafts are deeply tied to its heritage.
Music and dance are also integral, with traditional instruments like drums, mbira (thumb piano) and marimba being prominent elements.
Zimbabwe has 16 official languages and these are Chewa, Chibarwe, English, Kalanga, Koisan, Nambya, Ndau, Ndebele, Shangani, Shona, Sotho, Tonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa and sign language.
While Shona spoken by 70% and Ndebele spoken by 20% of the population are the country’s prominent languages, English is also common and more like the second language for the majority.
The people are well known for their warmth and hospitality and visitors are often struck by the genuine friendliness of the people.
Greeting elders respectfully and observing local customs is highly appreciated.
Top Travel Destinations in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe boasts a variety of must-see destinations, each offering something unique for travellers.
Some of these destinations include Victoria Falls, Hwange Nagtional Park, Great Zimbabwe Ruins, Eastern Highlands, Matobo National Park and Lake Kariba to name just a few.
Whether you are drawn to world-famous natural wonders, wildlife-rich parks or historic landmarks, this country has something for everyone.
Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, which makes it the crown jewel of Zimbabwean tourism.
Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders,” it is one of the largest waterfalls on the planet. Activities here range from helicopter tours to white-water rafting along the Zambezi River.
We will do an in-depth article on all of the country’s top travel destinations.
Accommodation
Zimbabwe offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and taste.
Luxury lodges in wildlife reserves like Hwange and Victoria Falls provide an exclusive and immersive safari experience.
Mid-range hotels and guesthouses are available in most cities and towns, offering comfort and convenience for travellers.
For the budget-conscious, hostels and campsites are scattered across major tourist spots. Camping in Zimbabwe’s national parks is particularly popular, giving visitors the chance to sleep under the stars while listening to the sounds of the wild.
Transport
Getting to Zimbabwe is easy, with international flights arriving at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (which used to be Harare International Airport) and Victoria Falls Airport.
Domestic flights connect major cities and tourist destinations like Hwange and Kariba, providing a quick way to explore the country’s highlights.
Road transport is the most common mode of travel within the country.
Car rentals are available for those who prefer the freedom of self-driving, though road conditions can vary and a 4×4 is recommended for more remote areas.
Long-distance buses connect major cities, while kombis (minibuses) are a local, inexpensive way to get around but these can be crowded.
There are also apps like inDrive and Bolt which offer cheap taxi or cab alternatives in urban areas.
Train services are limited but offer an interesting way to see the countryside, particularly the overnight journey from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls. There are several tour companies that offer unique train rides for tourists.
Travel Tips and Safety
Visitors to Zimbabwe will need a visa, which can be obtained on arrival for many nationalities. However, there are numerous countries that do not need a visa to travel to Zimbabwe.
Health precautions include vaccinations for various diseases including typhoid and malaria prophylaxis is recommended, especially for travel to low-lying areas like Victoria Falls and Hwange.
While Zimbabwe is generally safe for tourists (probably one of the safest countries in the region), it is advisable to stay informed about current conditions and avoid any high-risk areas.
Zimbabwe is currently using a multicurrency system with the Zim Gold (ZIG) being the primary currency while the the US dollar is widely accepted.
Most transactions are now conducted electronically, so having a mobile payment app or credit card is useful.
Cuisine and Dining
Zimbabwean cuisine is hearty and flavorful, with maize-based dishes like sadza (a thick porridge) forming the staple of most meals.
Popular accompaniments include nyama (meat) and and various other vegetables.
Adventurous eaters can try mopane worms, which are a traditional delicacy.
In cities, a wide variety of dining options is available, from fine restaurants to bustling braai areas offering different types of grilled meat.
You can never run out of options as most places offer a mix of local and international cuisines, catering to all tastes and dietary preferences.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Zimbabwe’s nightlife is concentrated in its major cities, with Harare and Bulawayo offering lively bars, nightclubs and music venues.
Most tourist destinations also have nightspots, although they might not be as prominent as those found in major cities.
For those who want to experience local culture, traditional performances including live mbira music and marimba bands can often be enjoyed at various joints.
During most weekends, there are many interesting events and major live shows that are also worth exploring so just be on the lookout for these if you are in the country.
There are numerous annual festivals including Jacaranda Music Festival, 263 Culture Festival and Shoko Festival which usually attract large crowds.
Visit Zimbabwe
From the thundering waters of Victoria Falls to the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe is a land of contrasts that continues to captivate travellers.
With its warm people, rich cultural heritage, and an abundance of natural wonders, this is a destination that invites exploration and discovery.