In 2023, during the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) Awards held at ITB Berlin, Zimbabwe was named Destination of the Year for Natural Beauty. This recognition highlights Zimbabwe’s diverse landscapes and its appeal as a premier travel destination. Additionally, at the 2023 World Travel Awards, Wilderness Ruckomechi was honoured as Zimbabwe’s Leading Safari Lodge, while Wilderness Little Makalolo received the title of Zimbabwe’s Leading Tented Safari Camp.
Found in the southern part of Africa, bordered by South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Mozambique, with an estimated population of around 15.3 million, Zimbabwe is a land of vibrant wildlife, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. As you explore the top attractions in Zimbabwe, picture yourself surrounded by Hwange National Park’s majestic elephants, the thunderous roar of Victoria Falls, and the serene waters of Mana Pools. Every moment here is steeped in natural beauty and timeless heritage. Let’s dive into the top attractions in Zimbabwe that make it a truly memorable safari destination.
Hwange National Park: Where Wildlife Roams Free
Nestled in the northwest of Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. As the largest game reserve in the country, this park is home to over 100 mammal species, including the famed “Big Five”—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo. However, it’s the elephants of Hwange that steal the show. With one of the largest populations of African elephants on the continent, you’ll witness majestic herds congregating at waterholes, a truly mesmerising sight.
The best way to explore Hwange is on a guided game drive. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly rewarding, offering glimpses of lions basking in the golden light or cheetahs stalking their prey across the open plains. Opt for a stay at one of the park’s lodges or camps for an immersive experience that connects you with nature at its finest.
Tip: Visit during the dry season (May to October) for optimal wildlife sightings as animals gather around limited water sources.
Victoria Falls: The Smoke That Thunders
Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya as it is called in the local Tonga language, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders,” is a natural spectacle you cannot miss. Stretching over 1.7 kilometres and plunging 108 metres into the Zambezi River gorge, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
For safari-goers, Victoria Falls offers more than its breath-taking cascades. Explore the surrounding Zambezi National Park, where you can spot wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. The adrenaline seekers among you can indulge in white-water rafting, bungee jumping, or a scenic helicopter flight for unparalleled views of the falls.
Must-Do: Take the Victoria Falls rainforest walk to experience the misty spray and vibrant rainbows that linger over the falls, a sensory encounter you’ll remember long after your trip.
Mana Pools National Park: A Canoe Safari Paradise
For those seeking a safari with a twist, Mana Pools National Park in northern Zimbabwe is a treasure trove of adventure. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its pristine wilderness, sprawling floodplains, and thriving wildlife. The park’s name comes from the four large pools (or “mana” in Shona) that attract hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Mana Pools is one of the few parks in Africa where you can explore on foot or by canoe, offering a rare chance to get up close to elephants and other wildlife along the Zambezi River. The stillness of the water, punctuated by the sounds of nature, creates a sense of tranquillity that is as exhilarating as it is serene.
Pro Tip: Guided walking safaris are a must-try, offering an intimate perspective of Zimbabwe’s untamed beauty.
Great Zimbabwe: A Journey Into History
Step back in time with a visit to Great Zimbabwe, the ancient stone city that lends its name to the country. Located near Masvingo, this archaeological site dates back to the 11th century and showcases the ingenuity of the Shona civilisation. The towering stone walls, crafted without mortar, are a testament to the architectural brilliance of Africa’s ancestors.
Exploring Great Zimbabwe allows you to wander through the Hill Complex, the Great Enclosure, and the Valley Ruins, each telling a story of trade, power, and culture. As you stand amidst these historical relics, it’s easy to imagine the bustling trade networks and thriving community that once called this place home.
Don’t Miss: The view from the Hill Complex is breathtaking, offering sweeping panoramas of the surrounding landscape.
Lake Kariba: A Safari on Water
Lake Kariba, one of the world’s largest man-made lakes, is a unique safari destination that combines water-based activities with traditional game viewing. Situated along the Zambezi River, this serene expanse offers opportunities for fishing, bird watching, and sunset cruises.
The Matusadona National Park, which borders the lake, is a hotspot for wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and the elusive leopard. For an unforgettable experience, opt for a houseboat safari, where you can enjoy the tranquillity of the water while observing animals on the shoreline.
Fun Fact: Lake Kariba’s sunsets are some of the most stunning in Africa, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple.
Matobo National Park
Famous for its unique granite formations, known as balancing rocks, Matobo National Park near Bulawayo is both a geological wonder and a cultural treasure. The park is home to ancient San rock art, depicting scenes of everyday life and spiritual significance, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.
Matobo is also a haven for rhino conservation. Join a guided walking safari to track black and white rhinos, a rare and thrilling experience that connects you with these endangered animals. The panoramic views from the summit of Malindidzimu Hill, also known as World’s View, add to the park’s allure.
Local Insight: The area holds spiritual significance for local communities, with many sites still used for traditional ceremonies.
Gonarezhou National Park
Translated as “The Place of Elephants” in the Shangaan language, Gonarezhou National Park in southeastern Zimbabwe lives up to its name. This vast wilderness, part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, is one of the country’s lesser-known gems, making it perfect for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
With dramatic red sandstone cliffs, baobab-dotted landscapes, and a diverse array of wildlife, Gonarezhou feels untouched by time. The park’s remote location ensures a sense of solitude and exclusivity, ideal for those who prefer quieter safaris.
Top Experience: Visit the Chilojo Cliffs, an iconic feature of the park, especially during sunrise or sunset when the rocks glow with fiery hues.
Chinhoyi Caves: A Hidden Gem of Subterranean Beauty
Located just 135 kilometres northwest of Harare, Chinhoyi Caves is a mesmerising destination often overlooked by mainstream safari travellers. These limestone and dolomite caves are shrouded in mystery and steeped in local legend, offering an otherworldly adventure beneath Zimbabwe’s surface.
The highlight of the caves is the Sleeping Pool, also known as Chirorodziva, a strikingly clear cobalt-blue water body that plunges to unknown depths. The pool’s stillness and vivid colour are almost surreal, creating a serene yet eerie atmosphere. For thrill-seekers, Chinhoyi Caves is also a prime spot for scuba diving, with certified divers exploring its underwater passages and depths.
The caves hold cultural significance for the local people, who regard them as sacred. Visiting them is not only a geological wonder but also a cultural experience, blending nature, history, and tradition.
Quick Tip: Bring a good pair of walking shoes and a torch to fully explore the cave system, and be prepared to feel the cool underground air—a refreshing break from Zimbabwe’s warmth.
Top Attractions in Zimbabwe
The Top Attractions in Zimbabwe capture the very essence of African travel—untamed landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. As you journey through Hwange’s vast savannahs, stand before the majesty of Victoria Falls, or paddle through the pristine waters of Mana Pools, you’ll find yourself deeply connected to the beauty of Zimbabwe. There’s no better time to explore this incredible country. Let Visit Africa help you craft a safari experience that will leave you with stories to tell and memories to cherish forever.
