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5 Best Places to Visit in Zimbabwe

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Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Formerly known as the “breadbasket of Africa”, the regions that make up the best places to visit in Zimbabwe vary in topography, geography, and captivating opportunities.

From UNESCO World Heritage sites to breathtaking wildlife havens, Zimbabwe offers its visitors the opportunity to embrace the raw beauty of a country that demonstrates the wonders of the wilderness and the intricate details that create the famous luxuries of a safari excursion. From sunrise to sunset, the country’s wonders will inspire you.

Consider some of the following must-see destinations when planning your trip to Southern Africa and delight in the many facets and features that make Zimbabwe such an incredible experience.

Overview
  1. 1. Victoria Falls
  2. 2. Lake Kariba
  3. 3. Hwange National Park
  4. 4. Mana Pools
  5. 5. The Matobo Hills
  6. Explore the Best Places to Visit in Zimbabwe

1. Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Musi-o-Tunya, or the “smoke that thunders”, is the name given to the magnificent Victoria Falls, which lies in the town of the same name and is an absolute must-see for any visitor to the destination. Misty skies rise above the Victoria Falls Bridge and mighty Zambezi River, while the sound of the crashing water echoes through the town.

Markets and curio stores are popular with visitors from around the world and cultural themes run throughout hotels and restaurants. Walking the trails along the falls offers visitors a variety of viewpoints that lead to adrenaline-fueled adventures and relaxed sunset cruises.

Highlights: Walking Tours of Victoria Falls • Bungee Jumping • Microlight and Helicopter Flights • White Water Rafting • Sunset Cruises

2. Lake Kariba

Sunset over Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe

Lake Kariba, Zimbawe

Lake Kariba is a man-made lake that invites visitors to laze a while as they take in the beauty of the glistening body and capture intimate moments with the wildlife and birdlife that abound along its edges. Watch hippos and crocs at play, taking a moment to look around you at the glorious Matusadona Mountains.

Popular with fishermen, the lake is teeming with numerous species of fish, including the popular tiger fish that will put up quite a fight. Embrace the life of luxury with a houseboat experience to enjoy incredible days and evenings framed by breathtaking sunsets.

Highlights: Game Viewing around Kariba and in Matusadona National Park • Fishing • Birdwatching • Dam Wall Visit • Cultural Visits • Canoeing Designated Area

3. Hwange National Park

Elephants at waterhole in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwer

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Revel in the wonders of Hwange, Zimbabwe’s largest national park and home to Africa’s Big Five, lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. This large, natural reserve lies on the road between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls, and boasts an impressive number of wildlife and bird species, making it a bird lover’s haven.

Herds of elephants gather at waterholes, visitors to the park watch in secret from wooden hides, and the call of the open savannah spreads to the horizon. The crowds are few, the landscape dusted with Kalahari sand, and woodlands a picturesque backdrop to an ideal safari experience

Highlights: Walking Safaris • Horseback Rides • Outstanding Game Viewing • Dramatic Settings

4. Mana Pools

Waterbucks at Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

Discover Zimbabwe’s wild north at UNESCO World Heritage Site Mana Pools, a unique series of pools situated on the floodplains of the mighty Zambezi River.

The scenery is breathtaking and visitors have the chance to capture nature in all its splendor, from dramatic mountain ranges to inviting springs, and an array of majestic wildlife.

Baobab trees stand firm among animals and the diverse terrain, where the thin vegetation allows for incredible sightings of elephants, lions, and more. This is an authentic Southern African experience that demonstrates nature at its purest.

Highlights: Hiking • Canoeing • Walking Safaris • Boat Rides • Dramatic Scenery

5. The Matobo Hills

Landscape of Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe

Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe

The Matobo Hills just south of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, comprise impressive granite masses that unveil fascinating shapes formed from the rocks. Discover the famous “mother-and-child” kopje and uncover the San tribe’s history through many cave paintings which reveal stories of days gone by.

The landscape encourages prolific birdlife and wonderful wildlife encounters, while inviting all who visit to stop for a while to admire the peaceful surroundings. A great combination of bustling urban markets, restaurants, and culture combine to create an outdoor haven in Zimbabwe’s southeastern corner.

Highlights: City Tour of Bulawayo • Incredible Photo Opportunities • Bushmen Paintings • Hiking • Game Viewing

Explore the Best Places to Visit in Zimbabwe

Wild dogs at Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

A country rich in culture, vibrant landscapes, and wildlife exploration, Zimbabwe offers adventure and beauty at every turn. The captivating Victoria Falls and mighty Zambezi River blend perfectly with safari experiences and many opportunities to sit back and relax, with some of the best sunsets in Africa bidding you a good day.

If you are ready to discover more, take a look at our Zimbabwe safaris and tours or find more inspiration in our African safari travel guide.

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