1. Victoria Falls – The Smoke That Thunders
Witness the mighty Zambezi River plunge over 100 meters into the Batoka Gorge, creating the world's largest sheet of falling water. Feel the mist and rainbows in the spray, and listen to the roar that earned the falls its local name "Mosi-oa-Tunya". For thrill-seekers, bungee jumping and white-water rafting offer heart-pounding adventures.
Highlights & Experiences
- Witnessing the world's largest sheet of falling water
- Walking along the trails through the rainforest with constant spray
- Experiencing the lunar rainbow phenomenon during full moon nights
- Adrenaline activities: bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and gorge swings
Best Time to Visit
February-May: High water levels - most dramatic views
Don't Miss
- The Boiling Pot at the base of the falls
- Sunset cruise on the upper Zambezi River
- Victoria Falls Bridge for panoramic views
- Livingstone Island on the edge of the falls
Practical Information
How to Get There
Nearest Airport: Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) - 18km away
By Road: Accessible from Livingstone (Zambia) or Bulawayo (Zimbabwe) via well-maintained roads
Bus Services: Regular intercity buses connect Victoria Falls to major cities
Best Time to Visit
- February-May: High water levels - most dramatic views
- June-August: Cooler weather, less mist
- September-January: Lower water levels, better for rafting
Duration Recommendation
Minimum: 1 full day
Ideal: 2-3 days to enjoy activities
Cost Tips
Entry Fee: $30-50 / ZWL 12,000-20,000 (international visitors)
Budget: $50-80 / ZWL 20,000-32,000 per day (hostels, street food)
Mid-range: $100-200 / ZWL 40,000-80,000 per day (3-star hotels, restaurants)
Luxury: $300+ / ZWL 120,000+ per day (5-star lodges, fine dining)
Where to Stay
- Budget: Shoestrings Backpackers, Victoria Falls Backpackers
- Mid-range: Victoria Falls Hotel, Cresta Sprayview Hotel
- Luxury: The Victoria Falls Hotel, Elephant Hills Resort
Safety & Health
- Malaria prophylaxis recommended
- Drink bottled water
- Watch your belongings in crowded areas
- Visa required for most nationalities (available on arrival)
Local/Hidden Gems
- The Big Tree - a massive baobab estimated to be over 1,000 years old
- The Lookout Cafe - cliffside dining with panoramic views of the Batoka Gorge
- Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia side) - less crowded with rhino tracking
- Victoria Falls Snake Park - home to some of Africa's most venomous snakes
2. Hwange National Park – Elephant Kingdom
Experience massive elephant herds at waterholes just meters from your vehicle in Zimbabwe's largest national park. Home to over 40,000 elephants, Hwange offers unparalleled wildlife encounters. Join expert guides on game drives where golden light reveals lions, leopards, and endangered wild dogs.
Highlights & Experiences
- Observing large herds of elephants at waterholes
- Night drives to spot nocturnal predators
- Guided walking safaris with experienced rangers
- Visiting Painted Dog Conservation Centre
Best Time to Visit
July-October: Dry season - best wildlife viewing
Don't Miss
- The Ngweshla area - famous for large elephant herds
- Mandavu Dam - the largest dam in the park
- The Main Camp area with its natural waterhole
- Sinamatella area for scenic views and diverse wildlife
Practical Information
How to Get There
Nearest Airport: Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) - 100km away
By Road: 2-hour drive from Victoria Falls on tarred road
Self-drive: 4x4 recommended for park interior
Best Time to Visit
- July-October: Dry season - best wildlife viewing
- November-March: Wet season - lush landscapes, bird watching
Duration Recommendation
Minimum: 2 days
Ideal: 3-4 days for comprehensive safari
Cost Tips
Entry Fee: $15-25 / ZWL 6,000-10,000 per day (international visitors)
Budget: $80-120 / ZWL 32,000-48,000 per day (camping, self-catering)
Mid-range: $200-350 / ZWL 80,000-140,000 per day (safari lodges, guided drives)
Luxury: $500+ / ZWL 200,000+ per day (all-inclusive luxury lodges)
Where to Stay
- Budget: Main Camp, Sinamatella Camp
- Mid-range: Hwange Safari Lodge, Camelthorn Lodge
- Luxury: Somalisa Camp, Linkwasha Camp
Safety & Health
- Malaria prophylaxis essential
- Bring insect repellent
- Follow park rules - stay in vehicle unless at designated areas
- Carry sufficient water and supplies
Local/Hidden Gems
- Robins Camp - less visited area with excellent wildlife viewing
- Deteema Dam - secluded waterhole with frequent predator sightings
- The Kennedy Vlei area - seasonal floodplains attracting diverse wildlife
- Nyantue River area - scenic landscapes with fewer tourists
3. Great Zimbabwe Ruins – Ancient Stone City
Explore the mysterious stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built without mortar between the 11th and 15th centuries. Run your hands along perfectly fitted granite blocks of the Great Enclosure, with walls reaching 11 meters high, and imagine the bustling city that once thrived here.
Highlights & Experiences
- Exploring the Great Enclosure with its massive stone walls
- Climbing Hill Complex for panoramic views of the ruins
- Visiting the on-site museum with ancient artifacts
- Learning about Shona culture and history from local guides
Best Time to Visit
April-October: Dry season - best for exploring ruins
Don't Miss
- The Conical Tower - a mysterious structure in the Great Enclosure
- Hill Complex - the oldest part of the ruins with sacred sites
- The Valley Ruins - evidence of ancient domestic structures
- The museum showcasing artifacts from the site
Practical Information
How to Get There
Nearest Airport: Masvingo Airport - 30km away
By Road: 4.5-hour drive from Harare on A4 highway
Bus Services: Regular buses from Harare and Bulawayo
Best Time to Visit
- April-October: Dry season - best for exploring ruins
- November-March: Wet season - lush surroundings
Duration Recommendation
Minimum: Half day
Ideal: Full day with museum visit
Cost Tips
Entry Fee: $10-15 / ZWL 4,000-6,000 (international visitors)
Budget: $30-50 / ZWL 12,000-20,000 per day (local guesthouses)
Mid-range: $70-120 / ZWL 28,000-48,000 per day (hotels, guided tours)
Luxury: $150+ / ZWL 60,000+ per day (boutique lodges)
Where to Stay
- Budget: Great Zimbabwe Hotel, Norma Jean's Lakeview
- Mid-range: Lodge at the Ancient City, Reggie's Motel
- Luxury: Mushandike Lodge, Leopard Rock Hotel
Safety & Health
- Low malaria risk
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring sun protection and water
- Respect cultural sites - no climbing on restricted structures
Local/Hidden Gems
- Lake Mutirikwi - nearby reservoir with boat tours and bird watching
- Kyle Recreational Park - wildlife viewing near the ruins
- Traditional craft villages near the ruins
- The Shona village recreation - showcasing traditional lifestyle
4. Matobo Hills – Land of Balancing Rocks
Enter a surreal landscape where massive granite boulders balance precariously atop each other. Matobo Hills is a place of profound spiritual significance and breathtaking beauty. Explore hidden caves adorned with San rock art dating back over 13,000 years, and feel the presence of ancient spirits as guides explain their meanings.
Highlights & Experiences
- Tracking rhinos on foot with experienced guides
- Exploring caves with ancient San rock art
- Hiking to World's View for panoramic landscapes
- Visiting Cecil Rhodes' grave at Malindidzimu Hill
Best Time to Visit
April-October: Dry season - best for hiking and game viewing
Don't Miss
- World's View - the burial site of Cecil Rhodes
- Nswatugi Cave - with well-preserved San rock art
- Maleme Dam - scenic spot with picnic facilities
- Matopos Hills Research Station - for wildlife enthusiasts
Practical Information
How to Get There
Nearest Airport: Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ) - 35km away
By Road: 1-hour drive from Bulawayo
Self-drive: Accessible with 2WD, 4x4 for park interior
Best Time to Visit
- April-October: Dry season - best for hiking and game viewing
- November-March: Wet season - lush green landscapes
Duration Recommendation
Minimum: Full day
Ideal: 2 days for comprehensive exploration
Cost Tips
Entry Fee: $10-15 / ZWL 4,000-6,000 (international visitors)
Budget: $40-70 / ZWL 16,000-28,000 per day (camping, self-catering)
Mid-range: $100-180 / ZWL 40,000-72,000 per day (lodges, guided tours)
Luxury: $250+ / ZWL 100,000+ per day (exclusive lodges)
Where to Stay
- Budget: Big Cave Campsite, Maleme Rest Camp
- Mid-range: Matobo Hills Lodge, The Farmhouse
- Luxury: Camp Amalinda, Matobo National Park Lodges
Safety & Health
- Low malaria risk
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes
- Bring sun protection and sufficient water
- Respect cultural sites - some areas require guides
Local/Hidden Gems
- Whovi Wild Area - less visited section with excellent wildlife
- Silozi Village - traditional Ndebele cultural experience
- Inanke Cave - remote cave with exceptional rock paintings
- Pomongwe Cave - featuring rare San paintings of giraffes
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5. Mana Pools National Park – Wilderness Paradise
Experience one of Africa's most pristine wilderness areas at Mana Pools, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Glide along the Zambezi River, encountering elephants, hippos, and countless bird species. The park's name comes from four permanent pools formed by the meandering Zambezi, attracting high wildlife concentrations during dry season.
Highlights & Experiences
- Canoeing safaris along the Zambezi River
- Walking safaris to approach wildlife on foot
- Watching elephants stand on hind legs to reach tree branches
- Camping under the stars in the African wilderness
Best Time to Visit
June-October: Dry season - best wildlife viewing
Don't Miss
- Long Pool - famous for large elephant herds
- Chewore Safari Area - adjacent wilderness area
- The Zambezi River floodplains at sunset
- The ancient riverine forests with massive mahogany trees
Practical Information
How to Get There
Nearest Airport: Harare International Airport - 300km away
By Road: 4-hour drive from Harare, last 100km on dirt road
Charter Flights: Available to airstrip near park
Best Time to Visit
- June-October: Dry season - best wildlife viewing
- November-March: Wet season - fewer visitors, bird watching
Duration Recommendation
Minimum: 2 days
Ideal: 3-4 days for full wilderness experience
Cost Tips
Entry Fee: $15-25 / ZWL 6,000-10,000 per day (international visitors)
Budget: $80-120 / ZWL 32,000-48,000 per day (camping, self-catering)
Mid-range: $200-350 / ZWL 80,000-140,000 per day (safari camps, guided activities)
Luxury: $500+ / ZWL 200,000+ per day (all-inclusive luxury camps)
Where to Stay
- Budget: Mana Pools Main Camp, Nyamepi Campsite
- Mid-range: Ruckomechi Camp, Chikwenya Camp
- Luxury: Vundu Camp, Goliath Safari Camp
Safety & Health
- Malaria prophylaxis essential
- Bring insect repellent and protective clothing
- Wildlife is dangerous - maintain safe distances
- Self-sufficiency required - bring all supplies
Local/Hidden Gems
- The "Jesse" area - ancient riverine forests with massive trees
- Chitake Springs - natural water source attracting diverse wildlife
- The Zambezi escarpment viewpoints
- Tracy's Spring - hidden water source with excellent bird watching
6. Lake Kariba – Inland Sea of Zimbabwe
Journey across Lake Kariba, one of the world's largest man-made lakes. Fish for tiger fish, watch elephants swim between islands, and marvel at spectacular sunsets. The lake's drowned forests create hauntingly beautiful landscapes and excellent habitats for fish and birds. Relax on your houseboat deck listening to fish eagles.
Highlights & Experiences
- Houseboat safari with fishing and wildlife viewing
- Watching elephants swim between islands
- Stunning sunsets over the lake
- Visiting Kariba Dam Wall - one of Africa's engineering marvels
Best Time to Visit
April-August: Cool weather, clear skies
Don't Miss
- Spurwing Island - luxury island lodge
- Matusadona National Park - accessible from the lake
- Kariba Dam Wall - impressive engineering feat
- Fishing for tiger fish - a prized game fish
Practical Information
How to Get There
Nearest Airport: Kariba Airport (KAB)
By Road: 4-hour drive from Harare or 3 hours from Lusaka
Boat Transfer: Available from Kariba town to houseboats
Best Time to Visit
- April-August: Cool weather, clear skies
- September-November: Hot, great for water activities
- December-March: Rainy season, fewer visitors
Duration Recommendation
Minimum: 2 days
Ideal: 3-5 days for houseboat experience
Cost Tips
Houseboat Rental: $150-500 / ZWL 60,000-200,000 per day depending on size
Budget: $60-100 / ZWL 24,000-40,000 per day (camping, self-catering)
Mid-range: $150-300 / ZWL 60,000-120,000 per day (lodge, boat tours)
Luxury: $400+ / ZWL 160,000+ per day (premium houseboats, all-inclusive)
Where to Stay
- Budget: Caribbea Bay Hotel, Charara Safari Camp
- Mid-range: Hornbill Lodge, Cutty Sark Hotel
- Luxury: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, Changa Safari Camp
Safety & Health
- Low malaria risk
- Life jackets essential for boat activities
- Beware of hippos and crocodiles near shore
- Bring sun protection and sufficient water
Local/Hidden Gems
- Changa Safari Camp - remote luxury lodge with excellent wildlife viewing
- Fothergill Island - pristine island with abundant wildlife
- The Gache Gache area - excellent fishing spot
- Sanyati Gorge - scenic area with dramatic landscapes
7. Eastern Highlands – Mountain Paradise
Escape to Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands, a region of rolling mountains, misty valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Explore Nyanga National Park, home to Zimbabwe's highest point, Mount Nyangani, with views stretching across Mozambique. Discover Chimanimani Mountains with unique quartzite formations and sacred pools.
Highlights & Experiences
- Hiking Mount Nyangani - Zimbabwe's highest peak
- Exploring Chimanimani Mountains with its unique rock formations
- Visiting tea plantations and sampling local tea
- Swimming in natural mountain pools and waterfalls
Best Time to Visit
April-October: Dry season - best for hiking
Don't Miss
- Mtarazi Falls - Zimbabwe's highest waterfall
- Chimanimani National Park - dramatic mountain landscapes
- Nyanga National Park - with ancient ruins and scenic views
- Eastern Highlands Tea Plantations - scenic and educational
Practical Information
How to Get There
Nearest Airport: Mutare Airport - 50km away
By Road: 3-hour drive from Harare on A3 highway
Bus Services: Regular buses from Harare and Mutare
Best Time to Visit
- April-October: Dry season - best for hiking
- November-March: Wet season - waterfalls at full flow
Duration Recommendation
Minimum: 2 days
Ideal: 4-5 days to explore both Nyanga and Chimanimani
Cost Tips
Entry Fees: $5-15 / ZWL 2,000-6,000 per park
Budget: $40-70 / ZWL 16,000-28,000 per day (guesthouses, self-catering)
Mid-range: $100-180 / ZWL 40,000-72,000 per day (hotels, guided tours)
Luxury: $250+ / ZWL 100,000+ per day (boutique lodges, private guides)
Where to Stay
- Budget: Troutbeck Inn, Chimanimani Hotel
- Mid-range: Leopard Rock Hotel, Nyanga Mountains Hotel
- Luxury: The Highlands, Montclair Hotel
Safety & Health
- Low malaria risk
- Wear appropriate hiking gear
- Bring warm clothing - temperatures drop at night
- Carry sufficient water and snacks for hikes
Local/Hidden Gems
- Honde Valley - lush tropical paradise with fruit farms
- Bvumba Mountains - misty mountains with botanical gardens
- Mount Selinda - remote area with pristine forests
- Chirinda Forest - home to Zimbabwe's oldest tree
8. Bulawayo & Khami Ruins – Cultural Heartland
Immerse yourself in Zimbabwe's cultural capital, Bulawayo, with its wide tree-lined streets and historic buildings. Visit the Natural History Museum, one of Africa's finest, with extensive geological and anthropological exhibits. Nearby Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the capital of the Torwa dynasty with sophisticated stone terraces built without mortar.
Highlights & Experiences
- Exploring the Natural History Museum with its extensive collections
- Discovering Khami Ruins - a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Visiting the National Art Gallery showcasing Zimbabwean artists
- Experiencing the city's colonial architecture and wide streets
Best Time to Visit
April-October: Dry season - best for sightseeing
Don't Miss
- Natural History Museum - one of Africa's finest museums
- Khami Ruins - ancient stone city with terraced walls
- National Art Gallery - showcasing Zimbabwean talent
- Centenary Park - beautiful park in the city center
Practical Information
How to Get There
Nearest Airport: Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ)
By Road: 4-hour drive from Harare on A5 highway
Train Services: Overnight train available from Harare
Best Time to Visit
- April-October: Dry season - best for sightseeing
- November-March: Wet season - fewer tourists
Duration Recommendation
Minimum: 1 day
Ideal: 2 days to explore city and Khami Ruins
Cost Tips
Entry Fees: $5-10 / ZWL 2,000-4,000 for museums, $10 / ZWL 4,000 for Khami Ruins
Budget: $30-50 / ZWL 12,000-20,000 per day (guesthouses, local eateries)
Mid-range: $70-120 / ZWL 28,000-48,000 per day (hotels, restaurants)
Luxury: $150+ / ZWL 60,000+ per day (boutique hotels, fine dining)
Where to Stay
- Budget: Bulawayo Club, Cresta Churchill
- Mid-range: Holiday Inn Bulawayo, Rainbow Hotel
- Luxury: Nesbitt Castle, Bulawayo Rainbow Hotel
Safety & Health
- Low malaria risk
- City is generally safe during day
- Take normal precautions against petty theft
- Drink bottled water
Local/Hidden Gems
- Bulawayo Railway Museum - showcasing Zimbabwe's railway history
- Centenary Park - beautiful park with diverse bird species
- Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage - rehabilitation center for wildlife
- Khayelitsha Craft Market - authentic local crafts and souvenirs
9. Chinhoyi Caves – Underground Wonder
Descend into Chinhoyi Caves, featuring limestone caves and a stunning underground pool. The main attraction is the Sleeping Pool, a mesmerizing cobalt blue body of water so clear you can see fish swimming 30 meters below. Sunlight piercing through the cave ceiling creates an ethereal atmosphere that feels magical.
Highlights & Experiences
- Viewing the crystal-clear Sleeping Pool from above
- Exploring the dark caverns with a flashlight
- Scuba diving in the underground pool for certified divers
- Learning about the caves' geological formation and history
Best Time to Visit
April-October: Dry season - best for exploring
Don't Miss
- The Sleeping Pool - main attraction with crystal-clear water
- The Dark Cave - adventurous exploration area
- The Bat Cave - home to thousands of bats
- The Silo Cave - with its unique acoustic properties
Practical Information
How to Get There
Nearest Airport: Harare International Airport - 115km away
By Road: 1.5-hour drive from Harare on A1 highway
Bus Services: Regular buses from Harare to Chinhoyi
Best Time to Visit
- April-October: Dry season - best for exploring
- November-March: Wet season - fewer visitors
Duration Recommendation
Minimum: Half day
Ideal: Full day with diving or nearby attractions
Cost Tips
Entry Fee: $5-10 / ZWL 2,000-4,000 (international visitors)
Diving: $30-50 / ZWL 12,000-20,000 per dive (certified divers only)
Budget: $30-50 / ZWL 12,000-20,000 per day (local guesthouses)
Mid-range: $70-120 / ZWL 28,000-48,000 per day (hotels, restaurants)
Where to Stay
- Budget: Chinhoyi Caves Motel, Orange Grove Motel
- Mid-range: Chinhoyi Hotel, Kadoma Hotel & Conference Centre
- Luxury: Chengeta Safari Lodge, The Lodge at the Ancient City
Safety & Health
- Low malaria risk
- Wear non-slip shoes - caves can be slippery
- Bring a flashlight for darker areas
- Water temperature is constant year-round
Local/Hidden Gems
- The Chinhoyi Recreational Park - surrounding area with picnic spots
- Manyame River - scenic river near the caves
- Chinhoyi University of Technology - beautiful campus grounds
- The Hunyani Range - nearby hills with hiking opportunities
10. Gonarezhou National Park – Wilderness Frontier
Venture into Zimbabwe's wild frontier at Gonarezhou, a remote wilderness offering an authentic safari away from crowds. The park's name means "place of elephants" in Shona, home to over 11,000 elephants. The dramatic red sandstone Chilojo Cliffs form a breathtaking backdrop, changing color from soft pinks at dawn to fiery reds at sunset.
Highlights & Experiences
- Viewing the spectacular Chilojo Cliffs at sunrise and sunset
- Encountering large herds of elephants in their natural habitat
- Exploring the remote wilderness with few other visitors
- Camping under the stars in pristine African wilderness
Best Time to Visit
July-October: Dry season - best wildlife viewing
Don't Miss
- Chilojo Cliffs - iconic red sandstone formations
- Runde River - scenic river with diverse wildlife
- Save River - forming the park's southern boundary
- The Tembwehata Pan - wildlife gathering spot
Practical Information
How to Get There
Nearest Airport: Buffalo Range Airport - 80km away
By Road: 5-hour drive from Harare, last 100km on dirt road
Charter Flights: Available to park airstrips
Best Time to Visit
- July-October: Dry season - best wildlife viewing
- November-March: Wet season - bird watching, fewer visitors
Duration Recommendation
Minimum: 3 days
Ideal: 4-5 days for comprehensive wilderness experience
Cost Tips
Entry Fee: $15-25 / ZWL 6,000-10,000 per day (international visitors)
Budget: $80-120 / ZWL 32,000-48,000 per day (camping, self-catering)
Mid-range: $200-350 / ZWL 80,000-140,000 per day (safari camps, guided activities)
Luxury: $500+ / ZWL 200,000+ per day (all-inclusive luxury camps)
Where to Stay
- Budget: Chipinda Pools Camp, Mabalauta Camp
- Mid-range: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge, Gonarezhou Safari Camp
- Luxury: Swimuwini Camp, Mahenye Safari Lodge
Safety & Health
- Malaria prophylaxis essential
- Bring insect repellent and protective clothing
- 4x4 required for park access
- Self-sufficiency required - bring all supplies
Local/Hidden Gems
- The Mahenye Community Area - community-run conservation area
- The Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve - adjacent private reserve
- The Save Valley Conservancy - massive conservation area nearby
- The Chiredzi River - scenic river with excellent bird watching
Suggested Travel Itineraries
5-Day Zimbabwe Highlights
Perfect for first-time visitors with limited time, covering the most iconic destinations.
Day 1: Arrival in Harare
Arrive at Harare International Airport, transfer to your hotel. Explore the city's highlights including the National Gallery of Zimbabwe and the Mbare Musika market.
Day 2: Harare to Great Zimbabwe
Drive to Great Zimbabwe Ruins (4.5 hours). Tour the ancient stone city and museum. Overnight in Masvingo.
Day 3: Great Zimbabwe to Bulawayo
Drive to Bulawayo (3 hours). Visit the Natural History Museum and Khami Ruins. Overnight in Bulawayo.
Day 4: Bulawayo to Hwange
Drive to Hwange National Park (2 hours). Afternoon game drive. Overnight at safari lodge.
Day 5: Hwange to Victoria Falls
Morning game drive, then transfer to Victoria Falls (2 hours). Tour the falls and depart from Victoria Falls Airport.
7-Day Classic Zimbabwe Safari
A comprehensive safari experience covering major national parks and cultural sites.
Day 1: Arrival in Victoria Falls
Arrive at Victoria Falls Airport, transfer to your hotel. Sunset cruise on the Zambezi River.
Day 2: Victoria Falls
Guided tour of the falls. Optional activities: bungee jumping, helicopter flight, or visit to the local village.
Day 3: Victoria Falls to Hwange
Transfer to Hwange National Park. Afternoon game drive. Overnight at safari lodge.
Day 4: Hwange National Park
Full day of game drives and wildlife viewing. Optional visit to Painted Dog Conservation Centre.
Day 5: Hwange to Matobo Hills
Drive to Matobo Hills (5 hours). Afternoon visit to rock art sites. Overnight at lodge.
Day 6: Matobo Hills to Great Zimbabwe
Morning rhino tracking, then drive to Great Zimbabwe (4 hours). Tour the ruins. Overnight in Masvingo.
Day 7: Great Zimbabwe to Harare
Drive to Harare (4 hours). City tour and departure from Harare International Airport.
10-Day Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
For the adventurous traveler seeking remote wilderness experiences and hidden gems.
Day 1: Arrival in Harare
Arrive at Harare International Airport, transfer to your hotel. Explore the city's highlights.
Day 2: Harare to Chinhoyi Caves
Drive to Chinhoyi Caves (1.5 hours). Explore the caves and optional diving. Overnight in Chinhoyi.
Day 3: Chinhoyi to Lake Kariba
Drive to Lake Kariba (3 hours). Board houseboat for overnight stay on the lake.
Day 4: Lake Kariba
Full day on the houseboat: fishing, wildlife viewing, and relaxing. Second night on houseboat.
Day 5: Lake Kariba to Mana Pools
Transfer to Mana Pools National Park. Afternoon canoe safari. Overnight at safari camp.
Day 6: Mana Pools
Full day of walking safaris and game drives. Second night at safari camp.
Day 7: Mana Pools to Eastern Highlands
Drive to Eastern Highlands (5 hours). Overnight in Nyanga.
Day 8: Eastern Highlands
Hike Mount Nyangani and visit waterfalls. Second night in Eastern Highlands.
Day 9: Eastern Highlands to Gonarezhou
Drive to Gonarezhou National Park (4 hours). Afternoon game drive. Overnight at safari camp.
Day 10: Gonarezhou to Harare
Morning game drive, then drive to Harare (5 hours). Depart from Harare International Airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Zimbabwe is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular destinations like Victoria Falls, Hwange, and major cities. However, like any destination, it's important to take normal precautions: avoid displaying valuables, be cautious in crowded areas, and stay informed about local conditions. Political demonstrations can occur in cities, so it's wise to avoid large gatherings. National parks are well-managed and safe when following park rules and guide instructions.
Recommended vaccinations for Zimbabwe include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine immunizations. Yellow fever vaccination is required if you're arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended, especially if visiting low-lying areas like Victoria Falls, Hwange, Mana Pools, and Lake Kariba. Consult with a travel clinic or your doctor at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to get personalized advice based on your health and itinerary.
Visa requirements for Zimbabwe vary by nationality. Many countries can obtain a visa on arrival at major airports and border posts, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and EU countries. The cost is typically $30-75 depending on nationality. Some nationalities require visas in advance, so it's essential to check the latest requirements with the Zimbabwe Embassy or Consulate in your country before traveling. The Kaza UniVisa allows travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia with a single visa, valid for up to 30 days.
The best time to visit Zimbabwe depends on your interests. The dry season (April to October) offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources, with pleasant temperatures. This is peak season, especially from July to October. The wet season (November to March) brings lush landscapes, fewer crowds, lower prices, and excellent bird watching, though some remote roads may become impassable. Victoria Falls is most dramatic from February to May after the rains, while the view is clearer from August to January when water levels are lower.
Zimbabwe has a multi-currency system, but the US Dollar is the most widely accepted and preferred currency for tourists. South African Rand and Botswana Pula are also accepted in some places. It's advisable to carry small denominations as change can be limited. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and tourist attractions, but cash is essential for markets, smaller establishments, and tips. ATMs are available in cities but may have limited cash supplies. It's wise to bring sufficient US Dollars in cash for your trip.
Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing for wildlife viewing, with layers for temperature variations. Essential items include: comfortable walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, camera, flashlight, reusable water bottle, and any necessary medications. For safari activities, include long-sleeved shirts and pants for evenings and insect protection. If visiting during the wet season (November-March), pack a lightweight rain jacket. For cultural visits, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is respectful.
Tap water is not safe to drink in most parts of Zimbabwe. Stick to bottled, boiled, or treated water. Most hotels and lodges provide bottled water for guests. Avoid ice in drinks unless you're certain it's made from purified water. Be cautious with raw foods like salads that may have been washed in tap water. Use bottled water even for brushing your teeth in rural areas. It's also wise to avoid street food that may have been prepared with untreated water. Carrying a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter is a good eco-friendly option.
Zimbabwe has 16 official languages, with English, Shona, and Ndebele being the most widely spoken. English is the language of business, education, and government, so it's commonly used in tourist areas, hotels, and cities. Learning a few basic phrases in Shona or Ndebele, such as greetings ("Mhoroi" in Shona, "Lotjhani" in Ndebele) and "thank you" ("Ndatenda" in Shona, "Ngiyabonga" in Ndebele), will be appreciated by locals and can enhance your travel experience. In rural areas, local languages are more predominant, but guides and accommodation staff will speak English.
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