Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe: general info for travelers

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in southern Africa, bordered by Zambia to the northwest, Mozambique to the east, South Africa to the south, and Botswana to the west. It has a diverse landscape, including high plateaus, savannah grasslands, and the iconic Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The country is known for its rich culture, with several ethnic groups, such as the Shona and Ndebele, and a unique blend of traditional and modern practices. Zimbabwe has a population of around 14 million people, and the official languages are English, Shona, and Ndebele. Tourism is a growing industry in the country, with visitors drawn to its stunning natural beauty, wildlife reserves, and historical landmarks.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Zimbabwe, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Zimbabwe: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the best places to visit in Zimbabwe and a brief description about each of them: 1. Victoria Falls - One of the seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located on the Zambezi River. It is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can enjoy various activities such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, and helicopter rides.
2. Hwange National Park - This is the largest national park in Zimbabwe and home to a diverse range of wildlife including elephants, lions, zebras, and buffaloes. Visitors can enjoy guided safaris, walking tours, and bird watching.
3. Mana Pools National Park - This UNESCO World Heritage site is located on the banks of the Zambezi River and is famous for its large population of hippos and crocodiles, as well as elephants, lions, and other wildlife. Visitors can enjoy walking safaris, canoe trips, and game drives.
4. Matobo National Park - This park is known for its spectacular rock formations and ancient rock art. It is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including rhinos, leopards, and hyenas. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and rock climbing.
5. Great Zimbabwe - This historic site is home to some of the most impressive ruins in Africa, featuring stone walls and structures that date back to the 11th century. It is a must-visit for history buffs and those interested in ancient civilizations. These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Zimbabwe. Each of these destinations offers something unique and unforgettable that visitors are sure to enjoy.
There is more to see and do in Zimbabwe: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Zimbabwe: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Zimbabwe, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Zimbabwe has a tropical climate and the weather varies throughout the year. The rainy season usually starts in November and ends in March or April. During this time, the temperatures are warm and humid with occasional thunderstorms.
The dry season is from May to October. The weather is cool and dry with clear skies and little to no rainfall. This is considered the best time to visit Zimbabwe for game viewing as the animals congregate around water holes.
So, if you're planning a holiday to Zimbabwe, the best time to visit would be during the dry season (May to October) for the best wildlife viewing opportunities. However, note that the prices and demand for accommodation during this time can be high. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and high prices, you can consider visiting during the shoulder season which is from April to mid-May and late August to October.

Zimbabwe: activities and what to do

Zimbabwe is a great destination for adventure activities and sports enthusiasts. Here are some popular activities and sports to do in Zimbabwe: 1. Safari: Zimbabwe is known for its exceptional wildlife and a safari is a must-do activity. You can spot elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, buffaloes, and many other animals in Zimbabwe's national parks such as Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park.
2. White-water rafting on the Zambezi River: The Zambezi River is known for its rapids and is one of the best rivers in the world for white-water rafting. It offers a thrilling ride amidst stunning scenery.
3. Bungee jumping: The Victoria Falls Bridge offers one of the highest bungee jumps in the world. It is an exhilarating experience that you can't miss.
4. Helicopter tours: A helicopter ride over the Victoria Falls offers an incredible view of the falls and the surrounding area. You can also take a scenic flight over Hwange National Park to spot wildlife from the air.
5. Walking safaris: Zimbabwe offers some of the best walking safari experiences in Africa. You can get up close and personal with the wildlife and explore the wilderness on foot.
6. Horseback safaris: Horseback safaris are becoming increasingly popular in Zimbabwe, especially in areas like the Matobo Hills. It's a unique way to explore the wildlife and landscape of the country.
7. Golf: Zimbabwe has some world-class golf courses, with some set against stunning backdrops. The Elephant Hills Golf Course in Victoria Falls is particularly popular.
These are just a few examples of the many activities and sports you can do in Zimbabwe. There's something for every type of traveler, from adrenaline junkies to nature lovers.

Zimbabwe: few words on history and culture

Zimbabwe is a country in Southern Africa and has a rich history and culture. The earliest known inhabitants were the San people who lived there for thousands of years. Later, the Shona people arrived and established a powerful kingdom, known as the Kingdom of Zimbabwe, which thrived from the 11th to 15th century.
In the 19th century, European explorers and settlers arrived, eventually leading to British colonial rule in 1890. Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980, and since then it has struggled with political and economic challenges.
The culture of Zimbabwe is diverse and includes many different ethnic groups, each with their own traditions, customs, and language. The Shona make up the majority of the population and have a rich artistic and cultural heritage, including intricate stone sculptures and traditional music and dance.
Overall, Zimbabwe has a fascinating history and culture that reflects the complex and diverse nature of the country's past and present.

Zimbabwe: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach Zimbabwe is by air since it is the most convenient and fastest way to get there. The Harare International Airport and Victoria Falls Airport are the main airports in the country. You can also reach Zimbabwe by road and rail from neighboring countries such as South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Mozambique. Buses and trains are available for travel within the country, but they may not be as reliable or comfortable as other modes of transport. It is important to note that road travel in Zimbabwe can be challenging due to poor road conditions, so it is advisable to use a reputable tour operator or private transportation service. To hire a car to visit Zimbabwe, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Zimbabwe: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Zimbabwe with a full stomach:D
Some of the main typical foods of Zimbabwe include: 1. Sadza: this is a staple dish in Zimbabwe made of finely ground maize meal and cooked with water to form a thick porridge. It is usually served with a variety of relishes such as stews, vegetables, or meat.
2. Nyama: this refers to meat, which is an important part of Zimbabwean cuisine. The most commonly consumed meats are beef, chicken, and goat. They are usually prepared by grilling, roasting, or stewing.
3. Peanut butter and pumpkin leaves (Muboora): this is a popular side dish in Zimbabwe. It is made by cooking pumpkin leaves with onions and tomatoes, then adding peanut butter and boiling water. The result is a creamy and flavorful stew-like dish.
4. Matemba: this is a dish made of dried and salted fish. It is usually served with sadza and vegetables.
5. Boerewors: this is a type of sausage popular in Zimbabwe, made of beef or pork and flavored with spices such as coriander and cumin.
6. Chambo: this is a freshwater fish commonly found in Lake Malawi, but it is also popular in Zimbabwe. It is usually grilled or fried and served with sadza and vegetables.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes you can find in Zimbabwe!

Zimbabwe: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Zimbabwe can be an expensive country for tourists, but it is also possible to travel there on a budget. The cost of traveling to Zimbabwe largely depends on your travel style, your accommodations, and the activities you plan to do. Accommodation options range from budget hostels to luxury lodges or safari camps, with prices varying accordingly. Food in Zimbabwe can be relatively inexpensive, especially if you eat at local cafes or buy ingredients from markets to cook your own meals.
Activities like game drives, Victoria Falls activities, and cultural experiences can be more costly, but there are also free or low-cost activities such as hiking, exploring local markets, or visiting historical sites.
Overall, if you plan your trip well, you can manage your expenses and have an enjoyable time in Zimbabwe without breaking the bank.

Zimbabwe: where to find accodation

There are several options for finding accommodation in Zimbabwe. Here are some popular websites to consider: 1. Booking.com - This website offers a wide variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly lodges to luxury hotels in different locations in Zimbabwe.
2. Airbnb - Airbnb is also a popular option in Zimbabwe and offers a range of properties including apartments, villas, and guesthouses for rent.
3. Expedia - Expedia is another popular website for booking hotels and other types of accommodation in Zimbabwe.
4. TripAdvisor - TripAdvisor is a user-review website that provides unbiased reviews on hotels, resorts, lodges, and guesthouses in Zimbabwe.
5. SafariBookings - This website specializes in African safari experiences and offers a range of accommodation options close to popular national parks and game reserves in Zimbabwe.
You can also contact a local travel agent who can help you find suitable accommodations that fit your preferences and budget.
You can check hotel prices in Zimbabwe here:
Booking.com

Zimbabwe: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, Zimbabwe received approximately 2.6 million tourists in 2019. The peak tourist season is generally during the dry months from May to October when wildlife viewing is best, and some popular areas like Victoria Falls can get crowded. However, Zimbabwe is not typically known for mass tourism, so it is unlikely to be very crowded.
Zimbabwe can be a safe country for tourists, but like any other country, there are some precautions that travelers should take to ensure their safety. It is recommended that travelers avoid political gatherings or demonstrations, as they can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
It is also advised to be cautious when traveling at night in urban areas, especially in downtown Harare and Bulawayo. It is recommended to book accommodations in advance and use reputable tour operators when planning excursions.
When it comes to specific areas to avoid, travelers are advised to avoid the border areas with Mozambique, except for the official border crossings, due to occasional banditry and insecurity in those regions. It is also recommended to avoid wildlife areas without an experienced guide. Overall, if travelers take basic safety precautions and follow local customs and laws, they can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Zimbabwe.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Zimbabwe on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Zimbabwe: events for tourists

Zimbabwe has several interesting events for tourists throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular ones: 1. Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) - This is a six-day festival that takes place in Harare every year in May. It features live performances in various art forms, such as music, theatre, dance, and visual arts.
2. Victoria Falls Carnival - This is a three-day carnival that takes place in Victoria Falls in December. It features live music performances from local and international artists and is a great way to celebrate the New Year.
3. Great Zimbabwe International Festival of the Arts (GZIFA) - This is a four-day festival that takes place in Masvingo in October. It features live music, dance, theatre, and poetry performances, celebrating the culture of Zimbabwe.
4. Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) - This is an annual trade fair that takes place in Bulawayo in April. It attracts exhibitors and visitors from all over the world, showcasing products and services from various industries.
5. Matobo Hills Cultural Heritage Expo - This is a two-day cultural event that takes place in the Matobo Hills near Bulawayo in August. It celebrates the culture and heritage of the region through traditional music, dance, and storytelling.
These are just a few of the many events that take place in Zimbabwe throughout the year, and they offer a great opportunity for tourists to experience the culture and traditions of the country.

Zimbabwe: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Zimbabwe, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Zimbabwe has a range of attractions that offer a diverse array of experiences. Here's a suggested itinerary for a two-week trip: Day 1-2: Harare - Visit the National Gallery of Zimbabwe - Explore the local markets and street food scene Day 3-5: Victoria Falls - Take a guided tour of the falls - Take a helicopter tour over the falls - Go bungee jumping or white water rafting Day 6-7: Hwange National Park - Go on a game drive to view the wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards - Take a guided walking safari through the park Day 8-10: Great Zimbabwe - See the ancient ruin of Great Zimbabwe - Learn about the country's history and culture at the nearby museum Day 11-13: Eastern Highlands - Visit the Nyanga National Park and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area - Hike Mount Nyangani, the highest mountain in Zimbabwe Day 14: Bvumba Botanical Gardens - Relax and explore the beautiful botanical gardens in the Bvumba region This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, giving you a comprehensive view of Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Zimbabwe described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Binga is a town located in the northwestern part of Zimbabwe, on the southern shore of Lake Kariba. It is renowned for its fishing and game viewing opportunities, as well as for being the home of the ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Binga
- Bulawayo is the second-largest city in Zimbabwe, situated in the southern part of the country. It has a population of approximately 700,000 people and is a cultural and industrial hub for Zimbabwe. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bulawayo
- Chimanimani National Park is a secluded mountainous area located in the eastern part of Zimbabwe. It covers an area of about 170,000 hectares and features rugged peaks, deep gorges, beautiful waterfal... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chimanimani National Park
- Chinhoyi Caves is a historical tourist destination located in Mashonaland West, Zimbabwe. The caves consist of a series of tunnels and shafts that are filled with crystal clear pools of water. The wat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chinhoyi Caves
- Chipinge is a town located in the southeastern parts of Zimbabwe. It's known for its tea and coffee farming industry, as well as its close proximity to the Chipinge Safari Area, which is home to a var... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chipinge
- Chiredzi is a town located in the Masvingo Province of Zimbabwe, in the southeastern part of the country. It is situated in the Lowveld region, a flat area characterized by grassy plains and dense bus... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chiredzi
- Chirundu is a town located on the Zimbabwean side of the Zambezi River. It is situated in the Mashonaland West Province of Zimbabwe and it is a major commercial hub for the province. The town has a po... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chirundu
- Chitungwiza is a town in Zimbabwe located about 25 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Harare. It is the third largest urban settlement in Zimbabwe, with an estimated population of over 350,00... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chitungwiza
- Chivero National Park, also known as Lake Chivero Recreational Park, is a popular wildlife and nature reserve located in Zimbabwe. The park is situated around Lake Chivero, a large reservoir that prov... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chivero National Park
- Chizarira National Park is a national park located in northwestern Zimbabwe. It covers an area of approximately 2,000 square kilometers and is known for its stunning panoramic views of the Zambezi Riv... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chizarira National Park
- Chizarira Safari Area is a national park located in the Zambezi Valley of Zimbabwe. It covers an area of approximately 2,000 square kilometers and is known for its stunning landscape of rugged cliffs,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chizarira Safari Area
- Dete is a small town located in the Hwange District of Matabeleland North Province in Zimbabwe. It is situated about 80 kilometers north of the city of Bulawayo and about 50 kilometers from the famous... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dete
- 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... CONTINUE here for a trip to Great Zimbabwe National Monument
- Gweru is a city located in the Midlands Province of Zimbabwe. It is the third largest city in the country and has a population of approximately 150,000 people. The city is situated on the main road an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gweru
- Harare is the capital city of Zimbabwe, located in the northeastern part of the country. It has a downtown area that is surrounded by several suburbs. The population of Harare is approximately 1.6 mil... CONTINUE here for a trip to Harare
- Sure, Hwange National Park is the largest national park in Zimbabwe and one of the largest in Africa, covering an area of about 14,600 square kilometers. It was established in 1928 and is located in t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hwange National Park
- Hwange is a national park located in Zimbabwe and is the country's largest game reserve. It covers an area of about 14,600 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including eleph... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hwange
- Kariba Dam is a large dam located on the Zambezi River, on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. It was built between 1955 and 1959 and is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, covering an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kariba Dam
- Kariba Town is a resort town located on the southern shores of Lake Kariba, in Zimbabwe. It is an important center for tourism and fishing, and it is home to a wide variety of lodges, hotels, and rest... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kariba Town
- Khami Mission is a historical site located in southwestern Zimbabwe. It was a center for religious activity and the seat of political power for the Torwa state from the 15th to the 17th centuries. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khami Mission
- Khami Ruins National Monument is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in western Zimbabwe, approximately 22 kilometers outside of the city of Bulawayo. It is a significant archaeological site that ref... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khami Ruins National Monument
- Lake Kariba is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world and is located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia in Southern Africa. It was created by the Kariba Dam which was built in the 1950s, blo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lake Kariba
- Mana Pools National Park is a wildlife conservation area located in northern Zimbabwe, along the banks of the Zambezi River. It covers an area of about 2,500 square kilometers and consists of dense fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mana Pools National Park
- Marondera is a town in Mashonaland East province in Zimbabwe. It is located about 72 kilometers east of the capital city, Harare. The town is situated in a region of high agricultural productivity, wi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Marondera
- Masvingo is a city located in southeastern Zimbabwe, and it serves as the capital of the Masvingo Province. The city was founded in 1890 as Fort Victoria by the British South Africa Company, and it wa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Masvingo
- Matusadona National Park is a protected area located in northern Zimbabwe along the shores of Lake Kariba. It covers an area of approximately 1,400 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Matusadona National Park
- Murewa is a town located in the Mashonaland East province of Zimbabwe. It is situated approximately 85 kilometers northeast of the capital city, Harare. The town is known for its rich cultural heritag... CONTINUE here for a trip to Murewa
- Mutare is a city located in the eastern highlands of Zimbabwe, near the border with Mozambique. It is the fourth largest city in Zimbabwe and the capital of the Manicaland province. Mutare is known fo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mutare
- Mutoko is a town located in the northeastern part of Zimbabwe. It is the capital of the Mutoko district and is situated in the Mashonaland East province. The town is known for its granite rocks and is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mutoko
- Ngezi is a small town located in the northwestern part of Zimbabwe. It falls under the Mhondoro-Ngezi district and is situated in the Mashonaland West province. The area around Ngezi is known for its ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ngezi
- Nyanga National Park is a protected area located in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe. It covers an area of over 47,000 hectares and is known for its stunning mountain vistas, rolling hills, and casca... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nyanga National Park
- Nyanga is a town in the Manicaland Province of Zimbabwe. It is located in the Eastern Highlands region, near the border with Mozambique. The town is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nyanga
- Rusape is a small town located in the eastern part of Zimbabwe, about 170 kilometers southeast of Harare, the capital city. It sits in the province of Manicaland, on the main highway that links Harare... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rusape
- Victoria Falls town is a small tourist hub located in the northwest corner of Zimbabwe, near the border with Zambia. The town is named after the nearby Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest and m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Victoria Falls Town
- Victoria Falls is a waterfall on the Zambezi River in southern Africa, located at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The local peop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Victoria Falls


Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: