A landlocked country often described as the most beautiful in all of Southern Africa, bordered on the north-west by the great Zambezi and in the south-west by the Limpopo, Zimbabwe is home to the awesome majesty of Victoria Falls, swathes of wild savannah and magical wilderness of Mana Pools National Park.
While most visitors to Zimbabwe will want to go on safari to see Africa’s big game and also marvel at one of the seven wonders of the world, the Victoria Falls, on a guided walk or from up high on a helicopter trip, there are numerous other ways to enjoy your holiday here.
Zimbabwe’s culture is extremely diverse as a result of the many indigenous groups which call the country home. While Shona is the largest ethnic group with the predominant hold in many areas, there are several other groups which have influenced the Zimbabwe of today.
With mild temperatures, virtually no rain and low malaria risk, the dry May to October winter season is generally seen as the best time to visit Zimbabwe for game-viewing, although note that September and October are extremely hot and dry months. The best time to travel to Victoria Falls is between April and May.
Zimbabwe remains one of the best travel destinations on the African continent, boasting attractions such as the thundering Victoria Falls, the rugged Eastern Highland and game-rich wildlife parks and reserves.
1. Spend four days around Victoria Falls.
2. Spend three days in Hwange National Park.
3. Spend three days in Matobo National Park.
4. Spend four days in Matusadona National Park and Lake Kariba.
Car hire and self-drive are good options for most of the routes and the internal road network. Also, If you are planning a long itinerary it is really a good idea to get a local travel agent to put together the logistics for you. On the other side, there are also safari packages available that will combine accommodation in different areas like Victoria Falls, Hwange, Kariba and Mana Pools transport between these will then be arranged. Choose your best option!
By plane
Many airlines flew direct to Zimbabwe including KLM and British Airways as well as direct flights within the country.
By bus
There are two types of local buses: express and local. Regular express bus services operate according to published timetables from Johannesburg to Harare and Bulawayo and several bus companies also operate direct buses to Blantyre, Malawi and between Harare and Bulawayo.
Road transfers in Zimbabwe are usually conducted in minibuses and game drives in open-sided 4X4 vehicles. Light aircraft charters are available for flights to more remote destinations.
By train
Zimbabwe’s railway network connects Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare and Victoria Falls.
All travellers must have a PCR COVID-19 Clearance Certificate issued by a recognised facility within 48 hours from the date of departure, in line with WHO guidelines. Yellow fever and Malaria vaccination certificate is required from travellers from risk areas. Furthermore, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you are away.
Hwange National Park
Victoria Falls
Lake Kariba
Mana Pools National Park
Chinhoyi Caves
Responsible Tourism