Great Zimbabwe National Monument - Discovering Zimbabwe

Travelling to Great Zimbabwe National Monument

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Great Zimbabwe National Monument, a pretty good destination in Zimbabwe (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Great Zimbabwe National Monument and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Great Zimbabwe National Monument, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Zimbabwe, here's everything to know about Great Zimbabwe National Monument for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Great Zimbabwe National Monument

Great Zimbabwe National Monument is an archaeological site located in southeastern Zimbabwe. It is the largest and most significant monument of Zimbabwe's pre-colonial history, dating back to the 11th century. The site features towering stone structures, including intricate stone walls, passageways and towers, which were built without the use of mortar. The ruins are reminiscent of a city, indicating the presence of a sophisticated society that thrived in the area. The main feature of Great Zimbabwe is the massive stone enclosure known as the Great Enclosure, which is notable for its impressive granite walls and the beautiful carvings and decorations adorning it. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination in Zimbabwe.

What to visit in Great Zimbabwe National Monument

The Great Zimbabwe National Monument is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southeastern Zimbabwe. Here are the main tourist attractions of Great Zimbabwe and some information about each of them: 1. Great Enclosure: This is the largest and most impressive structure at Great Zimbabwe National Monument. It is made of intricately stacked stone walls which encircle an area of about 6 acres. It is believed that the Great Enclosure was used as a royal palace and important religious site.
2. Hill Complex: The Hill Complex is located on a nearby hill and includes a number of smaller buildings, some of which were used for burials. From the top of the hill, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Valley Complex: The Valley Complex is the oldest and largest part of the Great Zimbabwe site. It includes a series of terraces, walls, and small stone structures. It is thought that this area was used for farming, cattle herding, and other domestic activities.
4. Museum: The Great Zimbabwe Museum is located on the site and features displays of artifacts and other items related to the history of the Great Zimbabwe ruins. Visitors can learn more about the culture, traditions, and daily life of the people who built and inhabited the Great Zimbabwe complex.
5. Interpretive Centre: The Interpretive Centre is a newer addition to the site and offers visitors a multimedia experience designed to enhance their understanding of the Great Zimbabwe ruins and the surrounding area. It includes exhibits, displays, and interactive features that provide visitors with a deeper appreciation of the historical and cultural significance of the site.
Overall, Great Zimbabwe National Monument is an impressive and historically rich destination that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. It is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in African history, architecture, or culture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Zimbabwe, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Great Zimbabwe National Monument.

When to go on holiday to Great Zimbabwe National Monument

The best time to visit Great Zimbabwe National Monument in Zimbabwe is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is usually cooler (average temperature of about 20°C), and there are fewer mosquitoes and other insects. This makes it easier to explore the ruins and enjoy outdoor activities without much interference from the weather. However, if you prefer to travel during the wet season, which runs from November to April, you will experience lush scenery and see many migratory birds that are attracted to the area during this time. But keep in mind that it may rain heavily during this period, which may affect your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Great Zimbabwe National Monument

Great Zimbabwe National Monument is located in the south-eastern part of Zimbabwe, approximately 30 kilometers from the city of Masvingo. Here are the different options to get there: 1. By Car: You can drive to Great Zimbabwe National Monument. From Harare, take the A4 highway heading east towards Masvingo, and then take the R-17 towards Great Zimbabwe. The route is clearly marked, and there are gas stations and rest areas along the way. The trip takes approximately 4 hours.
2. By Bus: You can take a bus from Harare or other major cities to Masvingo, and then take a taxi or a shared taxi (called a "kombi") to Great Zimbabwe National Monument. This is a cost-effective option, but it requires a bit of planning and flexibility, as schedules can change.
3. By Air: You can fly to Masvingo Airport from Harare or other major cities in Zimbabwe, and then take a taxi to Great Zimbabwe National Monument. This is the fastest option, but it can be more expensive than other modes of transportation.
I hope this information is helpful!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Great Zimbabwe National Monument, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Great Zimbabwe National Monument

Great Zimbabwe is a historical site, and as such, there are no typical foods from the monument. However, if you are looking for traditional Zimbabwean cuisine, there are several dishes you must try. Here are some of them with a brief description: 1. Sadza - This is the most common Zimbabwean meal, and it's made from cornmeal. It's usually served with meat (chicken, beef, or goat) and vegetables.
2. Matemba - Dried fish - This is a popular snack that's prepared by salting and drying small fish. It's usually served with Sadza.
3. Muriwo Unedovi - Greens with peanut butter - This is a traditional vegetable dish that's cooked with peanut butter and served with sadza.
4. Maheu - This is a traditional drink that's made from fermented maize. It's usually sweetened with sugar, and it's served cold.
5. Nyama - Beef - This is a popular meat in Zimbabwe, and it's usually served as a stew or grilled.
6. Chimodho - Pumpkin leaves - This is another traditional vegetable dish that's cooked with tomatoes and onions. It's usually served with sadza.
7. Mabhonzo emombe - Beef offals - These are beef offals that are boiled and served with sadza.
These are just some of the many traditional Zimbabwean dishes that you can try during your visit to Zimbabwe.
You can find general info about typical foods in Zimbabwe here.

Is Great Zimbabwe National Monument an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of visiting the Great Zimbabwe National Monument can vary depending on a few factors such as the season of the year, type of accommodation, and the individual's travel style. Generally, Zimbabwe is considered a relatively expensive destination compared to other African countries but it's possible to travel on a budget. Entrance fees to the Great Zimbabwe National Monument for foreign adults start at $15, while accommodation can range from budget to luxury. Food and transportation costs can also vary depending on your preferences.
To save money, you could consider traveling during the low season, staying in budget-friendly accommodation options, or utilizing public transportation rather than hiring a private car.

Where to find accomodation in Great Zimbabwe National Monument

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting the Great Zimbabwe National Monument in Zimbabwe are Masvingo, which is the nearest town to the monument, and nearby cities such as Bulawayo and Harare. There are hotels, lodges and campsites available in Masvingo, as well as some more upscale resorts and bed and breakfasts in Bulawayo and Harare. Many visitors also choose to stay at lodges and campsites near Lake Mutirikwi, which is about 7 km from the monument and offers stunning natural views.
You can check hotel prices at Great Zimbabwe National Monument here:
Booking.com

Is Great Zimbabwe National Monument a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, the Great Zimbabwe National Monument in Zimbabwe is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any tourist destination, it is important to take necessary precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and not wandering off into unfamiliar areas alone. It's also important to follow any safety instructions given by the park staff, stay on designated paths and avoid touching any artifacts or historic structures. Additionally, it's important to check the latest travel advisory for Zimbabwe from your local authorities before making any travel plans.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Zimbabwe here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Great Zimbabwe National Monument.

What type of travelers will enjoy Great Zimbabwe National Monument the most?

Great Zimbabwe National Monument in Zimbabwe is a great destination for history lovers, archaeology enthusiasts, and families who enjoy learning about different cultures. Couples can also enjoy the romantic nature of the ruins and the scenic views.
It's not a place for those seeking fast-paced excitement or entertainment. Instead, visitors can expect to learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, admire ancient architecture, and marvel at the old stone ruins. There are also guided tours and onsite museums available.
For families with children, Great Zimbabwe National Monument can be a valuable educational experience and an opportunity to learn about the ancient culture of the Shona people in Zimbabwe. However, visitors should be aware that the site can involve a lot of walking, so parents should plan accordingly.

How to get around Great Zimbabwe National Monument

Great Zimbabwe National Monument can be explored by foot, as it mainly consists of ruins and structures that are situated among a beautiful landscape. However, if you prefer to cover more ground in less time, you can also explore the area by car or bicycle. Guided tours are available that allow visitors to travel around the site in a vehicle with an expert guide. Additionally, visitors can also hire a taxi to move around the monument.

What to see around Great Zimbabwe National Monument

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Great Zimbabwe National Monument: 1. Lake Mutirikwi - This is a man-made lake located a short distance from Great Zimbabwe National Monument. It's a great place to relax amidst the natural beauty of Zimbabwe's wildlife.
2. Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve - This beautiful wildlife reserve is located about an hour's drive from Great Zimbabwe National Monument, and offers beautiful landscapes and a variety of African wildlife.
3. Gonarezhou National Park - This massive park is about an hour and a half's drive from Great Zimbabwe National Monument, and is a haven for wildlife lovers looking to see elephants, lions, hippos, and more.
4. Chiredzi River - This scenic river is about an hour and a half's drive from Great Zimbabwe National Monument. The river is surrounded by towering cliffs, and is a great spot for bird-watching or picnicking by the water.
5. Kyle Recreational Park - This park is about two hours' drive from Great Zimbabwe National Monument. It features beautiful freshwater lakes, swimming pools, and picnic areas.
For every travel information about Zimbabwe you can click here.

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