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The 10 Best Places to Visit in Zimbabwe

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For many years,  Zimbabwe ’s reputation as a travel destination has been tainted by the specter of political unrest. However, the country is more stable now than it has been for decades, and slowly, tourism is returning. Most of Zimbabwe’s top attractions are found outside the main cities, and are therefore considered relatively safe. Those that decide to visit can expect breathtaking nature areas, exotic wildlife and ancient sites that offer a fascinating insight into the continent’s history. Best of all, Zimbabwe’s world-class game reserves and UNESCO World Heritage Sites remain incredibly uncrowded — giving you the truly thrilling sense of having stepped off the map. Here are 10 of the best places to visit on your Zimbabwe adventure. 

Hwange National Park

Located to the west of the country on the border with Botswana , Hwange National Park is the oldest and largest of Zimbabwe’s game reserves. It covers a vast expanse of around 5,655 square miles/14,650 square kilometers and provides a refuge for over 100 species of mammal - including the Big Five . It is most famous for its elephants — in fact, the Hwange elephant population is thought to be one of the largest in the world. The park is also home to some of Africa’s rarest safari animals, including the African wild dog, the brown hyena and the critically endangered black rhino. Birdlife is abundant here, with over 400 species recorded within the park. Accommodation in Hwange National Park ranges from luxury lodges located in their own private concessions, to rustic camps that offer the chance to spend a night under canvas in the heart of the African bush. 

Victoria Falls

In Zimbabwe’s far west corner, the Zambezi River marks the border with Zambia. At Victoria Falls , it plunges off a precipice measuring 354 feet/108 meters in height and 5,604 feet/1,708 meters in width. This is the largest sheet of falling water on the planet, and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World . In peak flood season (February to May), the spray thrown up by the plunging water can be seen from 30 miles/48 kilometers away. This magnificent spectacle gives the falls its indigenous name —  Mosi-oa-Tunya , or "The Smoke That Thunders". On the Zimbabwean side, a path winds its way along the edge of the gorge. Viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramas of the plummeting water and the rainbows that hang suspended above the chasm. The sound is deafening and the spray soaks to the skin - but the spectacle is one that can never be forgotten. 

Lake Kariba

Northeast of Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River feeds into Lake Kariba , another superlative body of water located on the Zambian border. Created after the construction of the Kariba Dam in 1959, Lake Kariba is the world’s largest man-made lake in terms of volume. It stretches for over 140 miles/220 kilometers in length, and measures 25 miles/40 kilometers across at its widest point. There are several lodges located along the lake shores, but the traditional way to explore is on a houseboat. Kariba is renowned as one of the best places in the world to catch tiger fish, a ferocious freshwater species prized by sport fishermen for its strength and tenacity. The lake’s islands also offer ample opportunities for game viewing. Perhaps the most rewarding wildlife area is Matusadona National Park , located on Kariba’s southern shore. 

Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park is located in the far north of the country, and is renowned as one of the most pristine nature areas in Zimbabwe. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its incredible concentrations of wildlife, including elephant, buffalo, leopard and cheetah . Mana Pools is also a haven for water-based wildlife, with large populations of hippo and Nile crocodile. They live in the four pools that give the park its name, each one created by the Zambezi River before it altered its course to flow northward. The largest of these is approximately 3.7 miles/6 kilometers long and provides a valuable source of water even in the height of the dry season . The abundance of water makes this park a prime spot for birders, too. It’s also the best destination in the country for walking safaris and self-sufficient camping trips. 

If you find yourself craving urban culture, pay a visit to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city (after the capital, Harare). Founded in the mid 19th-century by Ndebele king Lobhengula, the city came under the rule of the British South Africa Company during the Matebele War . As a result, much of the city’s present-day architecture dates back to the colonial era, and walking through the wide, jacaranda-lined streets feels a lot like stepping back in time. Top attractions in Bulawayo include the Natural History Museum , home of taxidermied safari animals and rarities including a dodo egg and a prehistoric coelacanth fish. It is possible to encounter living African animals at Chipangali Widlife Orphanage , located a short drive southeast of the city. Medieval replica Nesbitt Castle adds to Bulawayo’s atmosphere of eccentric history and doubles as a boutique hotel.

Great Zimbabwe National Monument

A four-hour drive south of Harare or east of Bulawayo will take you to the Great Zimbabwe National Monument , another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site protects the remains of Great Zimbabwe, the capital of the historic Kingdom of Zimbabwe and the most important stone ruins south of the Sahara. Built between the 11th and 15th centuries, the ruins cover a vast area and include a hilltop acropolis that would once have housed kings and chiefs. The surrounding valley is littered with the ruins of more humble dwellings, all of which were built using granite blocks cut so perfectly that no mortar was needed to hold them together. Artifacts including Arab coins from the East African coast and porcelain from China have been discovered here, suggesting that Great Zimbabwe was once a wealthy and powerful center of trade.

Matobo National Park

Matobo National Park is located 25 miles/40 kilometers south of Bulawayo. The park’s name means “Bald Heads” in the local Ndebele language — a moniker that refers to its fascinating granite rock formations. Some of these rocks are impossibly balanced on top of one another, and many of them are marked with ancient rock art created by the San bushmen some 2,000 years ago. Cecil Rhodes , the controversial 19th-century imperialist, chose to be buried here, and his remains are marked by a brass plaque perched atop World’s View, the park’s most iconic viewpoint. Matobo National Park is a top destination for hikers and those hoping to see white and black rhino. Although there are no lion or elephant, it has one of the largest leopard populations in Southern Africa and is a great place to spot Verreaux’s eagles.

Chimanimani National Park

On the eastern border with Mozambique , mountainous Chimanimani National Park is a place of stunning natural beauty. The perfect destination for those wishing to hike, camp and lose themselves in the Zimbabwean wilderness, the park is defined by plunging gorges, lush valleys and soaring peaks. The highest summits reach over 7,990 feet/2,400 meters. The lower reaches of the park are covered by dense virgin forest, which in turn provides shelter for elusive wildlife including eland, sable and blue duiker antelope. Leopard roam free in the Chimanimani mountains and the birdlife is spectacular. This is also a good place to keep an eye out for Southern Africa’s smaller cat species . Amenities in the park include unpaved hiking trails, communal huts and a campsite with basic cooking and ablution facilities. Wild camping is also allowed throughout the park. 

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Also located in the far east of the country, Mutare is Zimbabwe's fourth-largest city; yet has a laid-back atmosphere inspired by its scenic highland setting. It's known for its charming guesthouses and B&Bs, including popular budget option Ann Bruce Backpackers . Old-fashioned Mutare Museum is a must-visit for transport enthusiasts with a notable collection of vintage cars, motorbikes and steam engines. For nature lovers, Bvumba Botanical Reserve promises breathtaking views and walkways that give you the chance to look out for rare fauna including the Swynnerton's Robin and the endemic Samango monkey. For many people, Mutare's greatest worth is as a base for exploring the Bvumba Mountains or nearby Nyanga National Park. Overlanders appreciate its location a few minutes' drive from the Mozambique border post.

Chinhoyi Caves

Roger de la Harpe/ Getty Images

North central Zimbabwe is home to the mysterious Chinhoyi Caves. A subterranean system of limestone and dolomite caverns and tunnels, the caves are protected as park of Chinhoyi Caves National Park . Pottery and human remains uncovered here suggest that they have been inhabited since at least the 1st century. Most famously, they provided a refuge from raiding tribes for Mashona chief Chinhoyi and his people. The top attraction is the Wonder Hole, a collapsed cavern with sheer walls that drop into the crystalline Sleeping Pool. The glacial blue color of the lake's water makes for impressive photographs, and from here, visitors can enter the illuminated Dark Cave. Chinhoyi is a popular destination for technical scuba divers. Excursions can be arranged through Harare-based dive center Scubaworld & Universal Adventures .

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Home » Travel Guides » Zimbabwe » 15 Best Places to Visit in Zimbabwe

15 Best Places to Visit in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a curious beast. Ravaged by wars and civil strife, it had a particularly tumultuous exit from the age of European colonialism in Africa. And while there are still lingering human rights complaints and authoritarian tendencies in the government here, the general consensus is that those dangers are slowly but surely subsiding. That means Zimbabwe is once again entering the safari fold, and beginning to re-magnetize intrepid travelers with the promise of its inselberg-studded backcountry, its teak forests and cypress-spattered hills; with its rugged Eastern Highlands where curious monkeys huddle against the cold breezes and its deep caves and underground riverways.

Of course, there are some mainstream attractions, not least of all the roaring wonder of Victoria Falls, and the up-and-coming metropolis of Harare – certainly one to watch! So, if you’re feeling adventurous and ready to throw caution to the wind, it’s worth considering this lost jewel of the African south for sure…

Lets explore the best places to visit in Zimbabwe :

1. Victoria Falls

There’s a clear reason why tersely-named Victoria Falls is one of Zimbabwe’s must-see places.

Like the eponymous towns of Niagara in the US and Canada, the settlement is just a stone’s throw from the roaring waterfalls that gave it its moniker.

Thousands of people flock here to see the awesome sight every year too.

They join the baboons in the jungles and delve into the Victoria Falls National Park just to the south of the center, gawping and gasping as the great curtain of water comes into view, cascading dramatically off its black-rock cliffs in plumes of steam and mist.

Nearly three million people call the metropolis of Harare their home, making it not only the capital but also the largest city of the nation.

Sat up on plateaus of Zimbabwe’s central highlands, it certainly looks the part.

Endless steel-clad skyscrapers shoot up from its CBD – the economic kingpin of the country – and First Street and the downtown buzz with purring traffic and shoppers from morning until night.

And there’s history too, poking out with the great preservation of the National Gallery, in the national archives, and the Queen Victoria Museum, not to mention the wealth of old colonial builds.

Apart from that, visitors here can wallow in the pretty parks and wander between the jacarandas that famously pepper the roadways.

3. Bulawayo

Bulawayo belies a sort of New Orleans vibe.

It’s got age-stained colonial frontispieces that ooze art deco and Victorian regal styles.

It’s got swaying trees dotting its old avenues, and the occasional Anglo-esque public house occupying the arcades.

But this second city is more than just a historical relic.

It’s also an industrial and economic hub, once known for its smoke-belching factories, and still crisscrossed by more railway lines than you can shake a Ndebele tribal trinket at.

The town is indelibly green and flowery, with bougainvillea cascading over the rooftops and palms peppering the roundabouts.

Between it all you can see elegant governmental buildings, go shopping for trinkets, or plan your next safari out to the south-western parks.

4. Matobo National Park

The legendary Matobo National Park is a cross-shaped reserve found just south out of aforementioned Bulawayo.

Famed since time immemorial for its curious array of inselbergs and hoodoo rock formations, it’s a land of sculpted granite peaks and anthropomorphic bluffs.

These have been a shelter for man for millennia, and today it’s possible to spy out remnants of southern Africa’s pre-history carved into the stone at spots like the Nswatugi Cave.

Meanwhile, others come to stalk ungulates in the Hove Wild Area – the dedicated game park here; a land of sable antelope and wildebeest, baboon packs and leopards.

5. Nyanga National Park

The home of the Highveld is a wild and wonderful place.

Perched on the very roof of Zimbabwe, more than 1,800 meters above sea level, it’s formed by hulking hills of dolomite rock, and suspended boulders that creak in the cool breezes.

Dressed in groves of msasa trees and cypresses that are rare to these regions, the habitats here can host a truly otherworldly array of creatures.

Many are endemic, like the Old World Samango monkeys, with their white-brushed throats that can only be found in these parts.

You’ll also find a smattering of leopards and lions, just in case you wanted a taste of the quintessential African safari!

6. Hwange National Park

Bringing up the forefront of Zimbabwe’s ecotourism offering with its nigh on 15,000 square kilometers of protected landscape, the Hwange National Park rarely fails to impress safari goers making their way through this section of southern Africa.

Inside its boundaries is a mosaic of Kalahari woods and teak groves, grass plains and flood flats, all of which are peppered with bulbous termite mounds and the occasional pan – a watering hole that makes this one a perfect destination for lion stalkers.

And apart from the kings of the plains, it’s also possible to see hyenas and wild dogs, leopard and cheetah, all lurking amidst the fossil-spotted river banks and bubbling hot springs.

The gateway to the farthest eastern fringes of Zimbabwe and the Nyanga National Park besides, Mutare makes its home between the steep-side valleys of Manicaland.

All around you can see the serrated tops of the Bvumba Mountains that enfold the town, making this one something of an enclave of civilization in the deep southern African wilds.

Today, the place has developed a nice clutch of backpacker guesthouses and cheap hostels, giving it the rep of a fine stopover on route to hike the hills or stalk the curious Samango monkey atop the rugged Eastern Highlands.

8. Masvingo

Welcoming travelers to the deeper reaches of Zimbabwe, Masvingo is one of the prime drop off points for VIP buses heading through to the southern edge of the country.

And what a welcome it is! Sat neatly on the edge of the Mutirikwi National Park, the place has plenty in the way of outdoors exploration up its sleeve.

However, the real treat has to be the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Great Zimbabwe, which lurks between the bush some 20 kilometers away.

These 700-year-old ruins crumble and crack under the sun, revealing tales of the nation’s old Shona-speaking folk.

The so-called Hill Complex and Great Enclosure there are hailed as perhaps the most awesome example of drystone architecture on the globe!

9. Lake Mutirikwi National Park

In the shadow of the sculpted Beza Range and the undulating hills of southern Zimbabwe, the Lake Mutirikwi National Park is one of the country’s more off-the-beaten-track areas for outdoors recreation.

Small and compact, it completely ensconces the reservoir of erstwhile Lake Kyle, which flooded the valleys here after the construction of a dam in 1960. As you flit between the empty banks and the smooth granite hills of the surrounding area, you’ll keep the company of ostriches and buffalo, not to mention local fishing folk searching for bass and bream beneath the waters.

10. Chinhoyi

A small crossroads town on the main way west from Harare to Lusaka across the border in Zambia, sleepy Chinhoyi is a kind of picture of rural Zimbabwe.

It sits nestled between the rising ridges of the Mashonaland West Province, and comes with a sleepy vibe and a set of essential services – a bank, hospital and the like.

However, Chinhoyi is famed mainly for one thing and one thing only: its caves.

Known simply as the Chinhoyi caves, these carve their way into the cliffs just west of the center.

They occupy their very own national park, and divers come from far and wide to try ultra-technical deep descents into the cool subterranean waters that hide in the gaping caverns.

11. Mana Pools National Park

The Mana Pools National Park is fed by the lifeblood of the Zambezi River, which spills over onto the plains and grasses here when the rains fall to create a patchwork of watering holes and pans during the wet season.

Of these, it’s the largest four that gave the area its name (mana means ‘four’ in the local vernacular), but there are actually countless little puddles to see.

The main upshot is that animals gather at the sites to drink, making Mana Pools a game viewing destination of the top order.

Despite being underdeveloped, there are more crocodiles and hippos here than you can rattle a baobab tree at, and visitors during the monsoon are virtually guaranteed a sighting!

12. Matusadona National Park

Clinging to the southern banks of Lake Kariba, on the Zimbabwean side of the great water body, Matusadona National Park is a relic of the former state of Rhodesia.

After becoming subsumed by Zimbabwe following the upheavals, the area retained its protected status.

And it’s easy to see why! First off, the whole region is beautifully untouched and untrodden, with Cape buffalo and elephants by far the most common mammalian inhabitants.

Secondly, there’s the waters of Kariba itself, which have created ample grazing lands since the creation of the Kariba Dam, allowing ungulates and predators alike to thrive along its fringes.

13. Gonarezhou National Park

You could be forgiven for thinking that you were strolling through Colorado or Arizona as you move between the rock-ribbed, rust-colored escarpments that dominate the vistas in the North Gonarezhou National Park.

This wild land covers a whopping 5,000 square kilometers, which is just a portion of the colossal Limpopo conservancy, set to sprawl out across the frontier into Mozambique when its fully established.

Elephants and giraffe are common sightings, while you’ll also be able to spot wild dog packs and zebra between the mopane woods.

Deep in the very heartlands of Zimbabwe, the town of Kadoma actually started life as a ramshackle gold rush town, housing the miners and prospectors who flocked to the central provinces here to chip away at the ground.

After gold was found, the spot developed quickly, slowly giving rise to hotels and banks and businesses.

Today, Kadoma is a richly-imbued place, with some colonial-style church towers and a lively local population of nearly 80,000. Come here to learn about Zimbabwe’s mineral wealth, and see cotton fields swaying in the African breezes.

The kingpin of the Kariba Lake region and the Zambezi Valley, this little lakeside town draws thousands of visitors a year to the extreme northern reaches of the country.

Set just on the edge of Zambia, it offers access to the breathtaking Kariba Dam – one of the most awesome engineering feats in these parts.

It’s also the place to come for hiking and outdoor explorations around the edges of the water, or to watch the red-pink African sunsets in the company of locals, as the evening hues descend over Antelope Island in the distance.

15 Best Places to Visit in Zimbabwe:

• Victoria Falls
• Matobo National Park
• Nyanga National Park
• Hwange National Park
• Lake Mutirikwi National Park
• Mana Pools National Park
• Matusadona National Park
• Gonarezhou National Park

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a country endowed with so much natural beauty, profound history, vast and remarkable landscapes, and an incredible diversity of wildlife, birdlife, national parks, and reserves to explore. Zimbabwe boasts a range of diverse habitats, from the forested valleys of Matobo Hills National Park, and the watery wilderness of Lake Kariba, to the floodplains of Mana Pools National Park, and the mopane woodlands and savannas of Hwange National Park.

Beyond its astounding landscapes and habitats, Zimbabwe is home to an astounding 500 species of birds, 199 mammal species, 130 species of fish and several rare and endemic species such as the sable antelope.

What sets Zimbabwe apart from its fellow southern African neighbors is the fact that it offers tourists and travelers alike the chance to experience superb game viewing and unforgettable safari adventures without the large crowds – Undoubtedly making it one of the best safari destinations to visit in Africa.

Offering an endless variety of things to see and experience, here are the best things to do and top 10 tourist attractions in Zimbabwe, all of which should be on your Zimbabwean bucket-list.

#1 Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is one of Africa’s top national parks. Covering a vast expanse of around 5,655 square miles/14,650 square kilometers, it is both the largest and oldest of Zimbabwe’s game reserves.

Hwange National Park is undoubtedly one of the top tourist attractions for wildlife enthusiasts as the park has the biggest diversity of mammals out of the world’s national parks. Home to over 100 species of mammals, including the renowned African Big 5, lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo, Hwange National Park’s game viewing and sightings are unparalleled. In addition to its exceptional diversity of wildlife, this world-renowned national park is famous for its profound population of elephants, boasting over 50 000 elephants. The Hwange elephant population is thought to be one of the largest in the world.

The park is also known for regular sightings of some of Africa’s rarest safari animals, such as the brown hyena, the critically endangered black rhino, roan, sable, and the endangered wild dog – Hwange National Park is said to be home to one of Africa’s largest populations of the endangered wild dog. Visiting Hwange during the dry winter months of July to October guarantees spectacular wildlife sightings, as animals gather around the man-made waterholes in the park to drink. Birdlife is also abundant at Hwange National Park, with over 500 species recorded within the park.

What makes Hwange so special is the fact that it is easily accessible as well as its lack of crowds. For all of its biodiversity, huge herds of elephants and ease of sightings in the winter months, the park never gets crowded, which means you have the space and the quiet to soak up the magic of the bush.

#2 Lake Kariba

Situated in the north of Zimbabwe, northeast of Victoria Falls and sharing a border with Zambia, Lake Kariba is landlocked Zimbabwe’s answer to the seaside: a massive manmade lake that provides a wonderful combination of water and wildlife. Stretching for over 140 miles/220 kilometers in length, and measures 25 miles/40 kilometers across at its widest point, it is the world’s largest man-made lake in terms of volume. The traditional and by far the best way to explore the wonders of Lake Kariba is on a houseboat. Kariba is renowned as one of the best places in the world to catch tiger fish, a ferocious freshwater species, as well as for its remarkable sightings of hippos, crocodiles, elephants and vast birdlife.

The lake’s islands also offer ample opportunities for game viewing. Perhaps the most rewarding wildlife area is Matusadona National Park, located on Kariba’s southern shore.

#3 Mana Pools National Park

Photo credit: flickr

Regarded as being both Zimbabwe’s best park and one of the finest wilderness areas in Africa, Mana Pools National Park is a superb safari destination. Situated at the northern most point of Zimbabwe straddling the Zambian border, Mana Pools is renowned for its untamed natural beauty: a riverine wilderness on the Zambezi River of pools, floodplains, baobab trees and forests that feels totally remote and never gets crowded.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its incredible and diverse concentration of wildlife, Mana Pools National Park is undoubtedly one of the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe for wildlife lovers from around the world. The park is famous for its huge elephant herds, as well as exceptional sightings of cheetahs and the entire African Big 5. It is also known as one of the top places in Africa to spot the endangered African wild dog.

Mana Pools is a haven for water-based wildlife, with large populations of hippo and Nile crocodile. They live in the four pools that give the park its name, each one created by the Zambezi River before it altered its course to flow northward. The largest pool is approximately 3.7 miles/6 kilometers long, and acts as a valuable water source, especially in the height of the dry season. The abundance of water present in this area makes it a prime spot for birders.

The appeal of the park is not just its wildlife – it’s how you get to experience the bush in immersive ways: staying in unfenced campsites in the midst of the wilderness and going on walking and canoeing safaris to see its profound and diverse wildlife and birdlife is where the true magic and adventure lies. Mana Pools National Park is also one of the only parks in Africa where you can walk and explore without a guide. It is however advised that you have a lot of bush knowledge and experience before going off on your own.

#4 Victoria Falls

Tumbling down 100-metre-high cliffs surrounded by lush forests, Victoria Falls is the biggest sheet of falling water on the planet. Regarded as one of Africa’s most astounding sights as well as one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, Victoria Falls reigns supreme as one of Zimbabwe’s top tourist attractions.

During peak flood season (February – March), the spray thrown up by the plunging Victoria Falls water can be seen from approximately 50 kilometers away. This spectacular natural spectacle which has people travelling from around the world to witness and experience first-hand, gives the falls its indigenous name —  Mosi-oa-Tunya , or “The Smoke That Thunders”.

Stretching 1.7 kilometers wide, the falls span across both Zimbabwe and Zambia. There are pathways on each side of the border that lead you to the edge of cliffs. On the Zimbabwean side, the path winds its way along the edge of the gorge with viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas of the plummeting water and the renowned rainbows that hang suspended above the chasm. While the sound is known to be somewhat overwhelming, and you’re bound to get soaking wet from the famous falls’ spray (a bucket-list worthy experience in itself), the magnificent spectacle you get to witness is one you’ll never forget.

As the town of Victoria Falls sits right by the falls themselves on the Zimbabwean side, it is famous for its vast variety of thrilling adrenaline sports and incredible safari activities. Some of these experiences include bungee jumping, abseiling, white-water rafting, and wildlife spotting from horseback.

#5 Matobo National Park

Regarded as the spiritual home of Zimbabwe, Matobo National Park boasts some of the world’s most impressive granite scenery. The fascinating granite rock formations and lunar landscape of balancing rocks, known as kopjes – giant boulders stacked on top of each other, as if they’re about to topple over – is not only a remarkable sight and one of the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe, but a stunning natural spectacle and work of art. This site has an intriguing history, tracing back some 2000 million years ago when molten rock erupted across the landscape.

Several of the rocks are marked with ancient rock art created by the San bushmen about 2000 years ago. In fact, the recreational section of Matobo National Park has Southern Africa’s highest concentration of ancient rock art with 3500 sites dating back 13,000 years. To this day the Matobo Hills are considered incredibly important to the local community as they are used as sacred sanctuaries and shrines.

Matobo National Park is an exceptional wildlife and safari destination. The game park section of Matobo National Park is not only home to Zimbabwe’s highest concentration of white and black rhinos, it has one of the largest leopard populations in Southern Africa and is a great place to spot Verreaux’s eagles, in addition to other wildlife and birdlife species.

**Interesting Fact:   Cecil Rhodes, a controversial 19th-century imperialist, businessman, and politician, was buried here. His remains are marked by a brass plaque perched atop World’s View, the park’s most iconic viewpoint.

#6 Chimanimani National Park

Located on the eastern border with Mozambique, the mountainous Chimanimani National Park is known for its unapologetic natural beauty. Famous for its plunging gorges, lush valleys, mountain landscapes, and soaring peaks, with the highest summits reaching over 7,990 feet/2,400 meters, Chimanimani National Park has become a top destination among adventure seekers, keen hikers, campers, and those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you certainly won’t be disappointed when visiting this top Zimbabwe tourist attraction and natural oasis. As the lower reaches of the park are covered by dense virgin forest, it is known to attract and provide shelter to several obscure wildlife species including eland, sable, and the blue duiker antelope. It is also one of the best parks in Zimbabwe to spot the elusive leopard as they roam free in the Chimanimani mountains, as well as enjoy incredible sightings of Southern Africa’s smaller cat species such as Serval, the African Wildcat, Caracal, the mysterious Sand Cat, Jungle Cat, Black-Footed Cat, and the African Golden Cat. If you’re an avid birder, you can look forward to some spectacular birdlife sightings when visiting Chimanimani National Park and the Chimanimani mountains.

Amenities in the park include unpaved hiking trails, communal huts and a campsite with basic cooking and ablution facilities. Wild camping is also allowed throughout the park.

#7 Nyanga National Park

Regarded as the home of the Highveld, Nyanga National Park is a wild and wonderful place to visit on any trip to Zimbabwe. Located more than 1,800 meters above sea level, it is said to be perched on the very roof of Zimbabwe, formed by hulking hills of dolomite rock and suspended boulders – Making it quite a unique sight to behold.

Besides being the home of the Zimbabwean Highveld, Nyanga National Park boasts a fascinating and incredible landscape which is dressed in groves of msasa trees and cypresses which are considerably rare to these regions. Due to the vastly unique landscapes of the park, the unique habitats that exist within Nyanga National Park can host a truly otherworldly array of creatures and a remarkable diversity of wildlife species.

Several of the species in the park are entirely endemic to the region, such as the Old World Samango monkeys with their white-brushed throats that can only be found in these parts of the world. The Nyanga National Park is also home to a number of leopards, lions, and other wildlife species, ensuring you get to enjoy the full authentic African safari and wildlife experience.

#8 Chinhoyi Caves

Located in north central Zimbabwe, the mysterious Chinhoyi Caves is not only one of the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe, but a place of geological interest too. Made up of a subterranean system of limestone and dolomite caverns and tunnels, the caves are protected as part of the Chinhoyi Caves National Park. The caves have a mystical appeal about them as local elders believe they are sacred. Due to several artifacts found and uncovered in the caves (such as pottery, drawings, and human remains), it is suggested that the caves have been inhabited since at least the 1st century. Most famously, the Chinhoyi Caves provided a refuge from raiding tribes for Mashona chief Chinhoyi and his people.

Undoubtedly the main attraction of the Chinhoyi Caves is the ‘Wonder Hole’. This deep blue natural pool is a collapsed cavern with sheer walls that drops straight down into what is known as the crystalline Sleeping Pool. Besides a bucket-list worthy experience, the glacial blue color of the lake’s water provides the perfect backdrop for the most incredible photographs. It is also the site where visitors can enter the illuminated Dark Cave.

A visit to Chinhoyi Caves is a great opportunity to hear and learn about the historical significance of the caves as well as the folklore that surrounds this mysterious place. Chinhoyi is a popular destination for technical scuba divers.

#9 The Great Zimbabwe National Monument & Masvingo

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Zimbabwe National Monument is located approximately a four-hour drive south of Harare or east of Bulawayo (two of Zimbabwe’s largest towns). Regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s top tourist attractions, the Great Zimbabwe National Monument protects the remains of Great Zimbabwe, the capital of the historic Kingdom of Zimbabwe and the most important stone ruins south of the Sahara. Built between the 11th and 15th centuries, these 700-year-old ruins crumble and crack under the sun, revealing tales of grave history and the nation’s old Shona-speaking folk.

The ruins cover a vast area, including a hilltop acropolis which once housed kings and chiefs. Making it quite an enthralling historical landmark to visit and explore on your trip to Zimbabwe. The valley surrounding the Great Zimbabwe National Monument is scattered with the ruins of more humble dwellings, all of which were built using perfectly cut granite blocks. As various artifacts such as porcelain from China and Arab coins from the East African coast have been discovered at this very site, it suggests that Great Zimbabwe was once a powerful and wealthy center of trade.

Some 20 kilometers away from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Great Zimbabwe is where you’ll find Masvingo. Situated neatly on the edge of the Mutirikwi National Park, Masvingo is the ultimate destination for keen adventure travelers and thrill seekers looking to explore and discover as it has plenty in the way of outdoor exploration up its sleeve. It is also regarded as one of the prime drop off points, welcoming VIP tourists and travelers to the deeper reaches of Zimbabwe, as they make their way through to the southern edge of the country.

#10 Matusadona National Park

A relic of the former state of Rhodesia, Matusadona National Park clings to the southern banks of Lake Kariba, on the Zimbabwean side of the great water body. After becoming subsumed by Zimbabwe following the various upheavals, the area retained its protected status and established itself as one of the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe.

One of Matusadona National Park’s main allures is that the whole region is beautifully untouched and untrodden. This makes it the perfect African wilderness escape for those seeking an off-the-beaten-track safari adventure. In addition to its vast diversity of wildlife, the majestic Cape buffalo and African elephant are by far the two most popular wildlife species you can look forward to seeing when visiting Matusadona National Park.

The nearby water of Kariba provides ample grazing lands which has only flourished since the creation of the Kariba Dam. This allows ungulates such as giraffes, hippos, rhinos, zebras, wildebeest, aardvark, and an incredible array of antelope (to mention merely a few), and predators alike to thrive along its fringes.

Kariba is also known as one of the best places in the world to catch tiger fish, as well as for its remarkable sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and vast birdlife. The lake’s islands offer ample opportunities for game viewing with the most rewarding wildlife area being none other than Matusadona National Park.

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Best places to visit in Zimbabwe: top ten

1. Victoria Falls

2. Lake Kariba

Image credit: unknown.

Kariba is the ‘happy place’ for many Zimbabweans. It’s the world’s largest man-made lake (by volume) and its dam wall is an Italian-designed feat of engineering. While that’s very impressive and all, you’ll visit this area for its extraordinary natural beauty and prolific wildlife. The mountain-edged area around the lake is home to the Big Five, as well as numerous other bird and animal species. We recommend you rent a houseboat and enjoy home-comforts whilst travelling to different parts of the lake. Alternatively, stay at a safari lodge or self-catering accommodation on one of the peninsulas or islands of Kariba. Wherever you go along the lake, one thing is guaranteed: your view will be accented by petrified trees jutting into the skyline and elephants wallowing in sunset-hued waters. Read more posts about Lake Kariba .

3. Mana Pools National Park

4. Matobo National Park (Matopos)

5. Great Zimbabwe Ruins & Monument

6. Hwange National Park

Image credit: arturcabral.

Roughly the same size as the Serengeti National Park, or the state of Connecticut, Hwange is home to one of the largest elephant populations on earth. This may sound trite, but when you see a 200-strong family of elephants just footsteps in front of you, without any fences, bullhooks or ‘handlers’ in sight, the term ‘wild’ will take on a whole new meaning. Not only that, but there are lion (it was home to the now-famous Cecil), giraffe, cheetah, African wild dogs, and over 400 species of birds, all of which make this a wildlife-viewing paradise. Due to Hwange’s easy access from Victoria Falls and Bulawayo, and a wide range of accommodation options, this is the perfect place both for first-time safari-goers as well as seasoned bush lovers. Read more posts about Hwange National Park .

7. Harare City

Harare is the perfect mish-mash of contradictions to introduce you to Zimbabwe before heading into the bush. As much as we want you to experience Zimbabwe’s game parks and natural wonders, we think it’s equally important to embrace the country’s cities and towns, to understand the whole picture. Read our Harare, Zimbabwe travel guide .

8. Gonarezhou National Park

Chilojo Cliffs, Gonarezhou National Park. Photo credit: RedWind /Lola 

This National Park is famed for its dramatic red sandstone cliffs, jutting into the sky as if they were sealing the edge of the known world. There are two luxury lodges in this area, both of which are highly attuned to sustainable community development and conservation. In addition, there are self-catering lodges and ‘undeveloped’ campsites for anyone wanting to truly go back to basics.

Temperatures can soar in this region, but the rewards are many: you’ll have the chance to see rhino, wild dog, long-tusked elephant and rare king cheetah without another human being for miles.

9. Vumba Mountains (Bvumba)

Photo credit: zimbawesights.

This lush, mountainous forest is a complete contrast to the savannah ecosystems seen elsewhere in Zimbabwe, confronting many people’s preconceptions about ‘typical’ African scenery. Vumba is a small but photogenic reserve, offering exciting walking trails and mist-hued views into the neighbouring country of Mozambique. It’s one of the few places in Zimbabwe where you can see forest-dwelling samango monkeys (as opposed to widespread vervet monkeys) and rare bird species such as the jackal buzzard − all in a fairytale-like, Lord of the Rings -style location. There are a number of picturesque lodges and hotels in the area, as well as coffee plantations, an infamous coffee shop, a golf course and enchanting botanical gardens.

10. Nyanga National Park

Photo credit: Annette Lyn O’Nell

If you were teleported to Nyanga, you’d be forgiven for assuming that you were in the highlands of Scotland. Swelling hills, pleasantly gurgling rivers, mountain waterfalls, and green valleys greet visitors: all this barely three hours from Harare. Nyanga is not the place to see the Big Five (although there are smaller species of wildlife); it’s the place for snuggling next to a fire in a cosy cottage, walking along fern-lined mountain paths, and going wild swimming in sparkling waterfalls. Your friends will never believe that your photos were taken in Africa. Be part of the movement that breaks those narrow stereotypes.

What do you think? Do you have a #1 favourite place to visit in Zimbabwe?

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Beth (Travel Editor/Writer)

Beth is the founder of Great Zimbabwe Guide Travel Blog: Zimbabwe’s first and longest-running independent online travel guide, created in 2010.

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4 Responses

Zimbabwe travel agent.

Zimbabwe has the best naional parks and Victoria falls is a must visit place there.

Nasir Mahmood

Very good working and good introduction of Zimbabwe please carry on good working

I would put the Chimanimani mountains before the city of Harare !!!

Peter De Vries

Zimbabwe, oh the memories I have gathered there… And thumbs up for the top-10! We did quite a few of them three years ago. I’ll never forget the houseboat trip we made with http://www.karibahouseboats.com/ It’s like driving your boat through a BBC nature documentary, the only thing that’s missing is the voice over of David Attenborrough. We spent a few days cruising around the lake and fishing for the great tiger fish (easier to hook then to land!), enjoying every moment of this. Highly recommend to make the same trip on Lake Kariba. And if you to make the houseboat experience we topped our trip of with a short visit to Amsterdam ( https://www.bookahouseboat.com/rentals/amsterdam ) just before heading back to the UK. Nice change of scenery, unforgettable holiday!

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28 Best Places To Visit In Zimbabwe

Posted on December 29, 2022 |

Zimbabwe, in southern Africa , offers striking landscapes, friendly locals, and vibrant cities. It shares Victoria Falls with Zambia and has Africa’s largest elephant population.

Harare, the capital, features many art galleries, museums, and nightlife venues, hosting the annual Harare International Festival of the Arts in April-May.

Zimbabwe’s acclaimed wildlife and landscapes are best seen in parks and reserves, attracting various tourists, from solo travelers to families and wildlife enthusiasts. here are the 28 best places to visit in Zimbabwe

Harare , Zimbabwe’s capital, is home to over a million people and offers many natural attractions and activities. Start with a city center tour.

Notable sights include the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, Epworth Balancing Rocks, and Mukuvisi Woodlands’ bird park.

Harare features historical landmarks and shopping centers. Explore the Avondale flea market for affordable clothing and local crafts.

Great Zimbabwe National Monument

Great Zimbabwe , near Masvingo and Lake Mutirikwi, was a medieval capital from 1100 to 1500 C.E. Now a national monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features mortarless walls over five meters high.

The site includes the Hill Complex, Great Enclosure, and Great Court. Notable areas are the Great Enclosure, Hill Ruins, and Valley Ruins.

The Hill Ruins, 80 meters high, are the oldest, while the Great Enclosure, 250 meters long and 38 meters high, is the most impressive.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, on the Zambezi River, is the world’s largest waterfall , with spray visible up to 50 kilometers away during the wet season. It is over 100 meters high and more than a kilometer wide.

Visit between June and September for the best views. Explore nearby Victoria Falls National Park, Hwange National Park, or Mana Pools National Park.

Devil’s Pool

Devil’s Pool, a natural rock pool, sits on Victoria Falls’ edge near Livingstone Island. During the dry season, shallow water and submerged rock protect from the 330-foot drop.

Guided tours provide safe access to the falls. A tour includes two guides, one accompanying visitors into the water, and another taking photos. Tips are optional.

Victoria Falls Snake Park

Victoria Falls Snake Park houses large and dangerous snakes in natural habitats, offering guided tours and snake handling. Nearby activities include white water rafting, costing about $120 per person.

The best time to visit is November to April, with the dry season from August to November allowing Devil’s Pool swimming.

Victoria Falls Bridge

The Victoria Falls Bridge, an iconic Zimbabwean structure, spans the Zambezi River below Victoria Falls. Built over the Second Gorge, it offers breathtaking views and is a must-see attraction. The bridge connects Zambia and Zimbabwe, allowing visitors to view Victoria Falls from both countries.

Tourists can walk along the paved paths near the falls to experience the spray. After the bridge, enjoy views of the Zambezi River and Batoka Gorge. As a border crossing and one of the world’s natural wonders, the Victoria Falls Bridge provides a memorable experience.

Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park, western Zimbabwe, offers lions, African wild dogs, and large elephant herds. Nearby are Mandavu Dam, Masuma Dam, and Bumbusi National Monument with pre-colonial rock carvings.

Man-made waterholes attract various animals. Visit between November and April. Spanning 14,600 km², Hwange features diverse landscapes and supports Africa’s big cats.

Bulawayo offers unique cultural heritage and wildlife experiences. Matobo National Park hosts various animals, including kudu, leopards, black eagles, and rhinos. The city has multiple museums, such as the Bulawayo Museum of Natural History with 75,000 specimens.

As Zimbabwe’s second-largest city and Matabeleland’s capital, Bulawayo is clean and pleasant. Its proximity to Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park makes it a good base for nearby attractions.

Mutare, in Manicaland, is Zimbabwe’s third-largest city, with a 2012 population exceeding 220,000. Surrounded by hills, it serves as the provincial capital and a base for exploring the Eastern Highlands, Mozambique , and Nyanga National Park.

The city has good road connectivity, including routes to Harare, Chimanimani, Chimoio, and Beira, although potholes may be present.

Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary

Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary, Zimbabwe, offers a tranquil environment with over 400 bird species , including rare and endangered ones.

Located on Lake Chivero’s shores, it is recognized for wildlife preservation and was declared a Sri Chinmoy International Peace Park in 2014.

The sanctuary hosts indigenous birds like African eagles and features a restaurant and gardens. The World Wildlife Fund collaborates with local communities to establish a bird park and education center.

Matusadona National Park

Matusadona National Park, in northern Zimbabwe on Lake Kariba’s southern shore, offers safaris, fishing, and game drives.

Notable are tigerfish, endangered and exclusive to the Zambezi River, and abundant birdlife.

The park comprises northern and southern regions, with the eastern section featuring the 1968-foot Matuzviadonha Hills.

Chinhoyi Caves

Chinhoyi Caves, a group of limestone and dolomite caves, were established as a National Park in 1955. Managed by Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority, the caves feature blue pools, natural lighting, and a cool atmosphere.

They are located near Chinhoyi town, 128 km south of Harare. The name comes from a local chief who sought refuge there. Human remains and pottery dating back to AD650 have been found in the area.

Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba, on the Zimbabwe-Zambia border, features expansive shorelines, diverse wildlife , and scenic islands amidst mountains. Local legend Nyaminyami inspires art and crafts.

The dry season (April to October) is optimal for visits, with average daytime temperatures of 82°F (28°C). Wildlife, including Nile crocodiles, elephants, the Big Five, and fish eagles, is abundant.

Chiremba Balancing Rocks

Chiremba Balancing Rocks, a natural phenomenon, are situated 13 kilometers from Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital. The site, also known as Domboramwarwi, is reached via a 7.4-kilometer route through several suburbs.

Though smaller than other balancing rock formations in Zimbabwe, Chiremba’s granite structures are notable, with one featured on old Zimbabwean currency. A tour of the site typically lasts an hour.

Gweru, in Zimbabwe’s Midlands Province, offers a high quality of life and low cost of living, with activities like river relaxation and outdoor pursuits in game reserves. Established in 1894, it’s the provincial capital, hosting Thornhill Air Base, the Military Museum, and Antelope Game Park.

The city boasts year-round flowers and nearby 17th-century Naletale ruins with views of Somabula flats. Gweru’s central recreational park attracts with its wildlife, bush walks, carriage rides, and horseback safaris .

Matobo National Park

Matobo National Park, in southwest Zimbabwe, is renowned for its balancing rock formations, the Matobo Hills, and Nswatugi Cave’s Stone Age rock art.

It hosts significant populations of white rhinos and black eagles, as well as Cecil Rhodes’ grave. The landscape features granite whaleback hills, angular boulders, and diverse flora, including over 200 tree species, various aloes, and over 100 grass species.

The park has one of the highest concentrations of raptors and the world’s highest concentration of Black Eagles. Optimal wildlife viewing is from April to October, though the park remains beautiful year-round.

Chirinda Forest Reserve

Chirinda Forest Reserve, in Zimbabwe, is the southernmost tropical rainforest globally. Located on Mount Selinda, it’s managed by the Forestry Commission and accessible 30 kilometers south of Chipinge.

The reserve is home to rare trees, including the Big Tree, a 65-meter-high, 1,000-year-old mahogany. It showcases eco-tourism, with a blend of tropical and subtropical vegetation, and is one of Zimbabwe’s largest protected forest areas .

Sapi Concession

The Sapi Concession, a 300,000-acre game location in Zimbabwe, offers diverse wildlife and activities. View lions, elephants, and hyenas, or enjoy a canoe safari along the Zambezi River.

Adjacent to Mana Pools, it features three ecosystems: a floodplain, lakes, and diverse landscapes with rivers, islands, sandbanks, and a mahogany forest. The region is a wildlife sanctuary with abundant birdlife.

Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou National Park, in southeastern Zimbabwe, hosts diverse wildlife, including rare Gonarezhou eland, crocodiles, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, zebras, giraffes, various antelopes, over 400 bird species, and dozens of fish species.

The park is well-managed, with increasing wildlife populations. It faces tourism challenges, addressed through community outreach and education.

Optimal wildlife viewing is during the dry season (May to August). The park closes during summer rains due to high water levels and poor track conditions.

Lion and Cheetah Park

Lion and Cheetah Park, 40 minutes from Harare’s center and 50 minutes from the airport, is a top Zimbabwe wildlife attraction. It offers close-up experiences with lions, zebras, giraffes, tortoises, eland, and wildebeest.

The park has a café and various animal enclosures. A drive-through lion enclosure allows observation of lions in their habitat. While cheetahs are no longer present, the lions remain a major draw.

Lake Chivero Recreational Park

Lake Chivero Recreational Park , 32 km from Harare, features a lake and unique ecosystem with various animals, including hippos, crocodiles, and dehorned white rhinos.

Formerly Lake McIlwaine, it offers picnic sites, fishing, and boat rentals. The park is home to giraffes, ostriches, and crocodiles. Ranger hire is recommended. Accessible by taxi or car, it provides horseback riding trails and picnic areas.

The Zambezi Riverfront

The Zambezi Riverfront in Zimbabwe offers stunning wildlife views and various activities for tourists.

Enjoy a scenic boat cruise, take a small plane flight to photograph Victoria Falls from different angles, or engage in adventure sports like river rafting, jet boating, or river boarding.

During the rainy season, the river stretches up to 400m wide and flows rapidly at Chavuma Falls and Cholwezi rapids.

Chimanimani National Park

Chimanimani National Park, on Zimbabwe’s eastern border, features Bridal Veil Falls and a natural cliff jump at Nyamzune Mountain.

Ideal for hiking, it offers highland peaks like Mt Binga (2437 meters), Tessa’s Pool, San rock art, and diverse flora and fauna.

Notable wildlife includes the Blue Duiker, eland, bushbuck, leopard, and Yellow-rumped tinkerbird.

Shona Sculpture Gallery

Shona sculpture, a traditional African art form, evolved into a world-renowned movement in the mid-20th century.

Crafted from Zimbabwe’s distinct, colorful rocks, these sculptures express Shona spiritual and cultural values.

They are a significant art export and economic contributor. Notably, the Great Dyke is a massive geological formation in Zimbabwe.

Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park, in northern Zimbabwe, offers African wildlife viewing along the Zambezi River.

Notable wildlife includes elephant and hippo herds, best seen at Long Pool and Chitake Spring, especially during the August to September dry season.

Canoe safaris allow close wildlife encounters and island camping.

Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, in southern Africa, spans 130,000 acres with diverse plants and animals, including endangered black rhinos and over 400 bird species. Activities include guided bush walks, sundowner cruises, and exploring ancient rock art sites.

The reserve features sandstone outcrops, Baobab trees, and Mopane forests. It has over 100 rock art sites and an energy efficiency program to reduce carbon emissions.

Thetford Game Reserve

Thetford Game Reserve, a 3,300-hectare park located 30 kilometers from Harare, offers wildlife sightings, including zebras, buffalo, impala, and blesbok.

Nearby, the National Heroes Acre honors liberation war fighters and serves as the annual independence celebrations’ focal point, featuring a museum, shrines, and a tomb of an unknown soldier.

Additionally, Lion Park provides a closer encounter with wildlife, allowing visitors to get close to lions and even walk among them.

Kwekwe, a small town in Zimbabwe’s Midlands Province, was settled as a gold mining camp in 1898. Today, it hosts large mines producing gold, iron ore, and chrome for steelmaking. Recreational activities include fishing, photography, water sports, and summer swimming.

The town features Zimbabwe’s National Mining Museum, the Zimbabwe Iron and Steel Company headquarters, the Islamic Mission of Zimbabwe, a major power plant, and a provincial cricket team.

Zimbabwe boasts an abundance of wildlife , including thousands of elephants, hippos, lions, and zebras, as well as diverse bird species like ostriches and storks. The country also features modern cities like Harare and ancient ruins dating back to the Stone Age.

Zimbabwe offers a wide range of activities, such as safaris, hiking, visiting ruins, and relaxing on beaches. With its pleasant weather and stunning scenery, Zimbabwe is an excellent destination for travelers.

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The 10 Best Zimbabwe National Parks and Historial Sites That are Worth Your Time!

When reviewing the best Africans safari areas, Zimbabwe definitely ranks high on the top of the list. So if you are planning for an upcoming Zimbabwe travel experience, well, I can guarantee you have made a great decision.

The country boasts of beautiful natural sceneries and prolific wildlife from its abundant game reserves. Top on the list includes the well known Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, and Victoria Falls National Park, with the highest concentration of tourist during peak hours. Lesser-known gems such as Nyanga National Park and Matusadona National Park have just as much to offer dollar for dollar.   

In this guide, I have rounded up the best Zimbabwe national parks that should be on your bucket list. These are some parks that combine huge game density, spectacular views, and other natural attractions.

Top 10 Zimbabwe National Parks

The parks have game reserves that will definitely offer you a once in a lifetime safari experience over your next safari or game viewing destination. Without further ado, here are the top 10 Zimbabwe National Parks:

1. Hwange National Park

Hwange is the largest and most famous of the Zimbabwe national parks. The game park not only boasts of rich wildlife but also excellent animal viewing experience. 

Hwange is best known for its vast population of the Big Five game animals – lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo. I recommend you visit the park during the dry season when you can easily spot leopards near the river banks and wells.

The park’s proximity to Victoria Falls makes it perfect for adventure seekers.

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2. Mana Pools National Park

Located below Lake Kariba, Mana pools’ exotic beauty is the reason it has made it to the list of UNESCO World Heritage site.

With more than 43 miles (70km) of the Zambezi river passing through the park, the river forms pools of water, and that is where the name, Mana Pools, comes from. 

The park has a unique ecosystem that supports a vast range of wildlife. It is one of the Zimbabwe national parks that boasts of a massive population of elephants and buffalos. You will also see African hippos, crocodiles, and almost 400 species of water and woodland birds.

The park is best explored by canoes or foot. Note that the park is only open during the dry season (April – November).

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3. Victoria Falls National Park

This park is home to the great Victoria Falls Zimbabwe and includes the Zambian side as well.

Victoria Falls is one of the largest and most magnificent waterfalls on earth. In comparison to the famous Niagara Falls, Victoria Falls is significantly bigger (twice as high and 1.5 times as broad). As a result, Victoria Falls is referred to as one of the seven wonders of the world.

A famous feature of the park is the rainforest. Trees grow in the spray of the falls, including ferns, palms, liana vines, and a number of trees such as mahogany not seen elsewhere in the region.

You will have an opportunity to view elephants, Cape buffalos, southern white rhinoceros, hippopotamus, eland and a variety of other antelope herds during tour drives and walking safaris.

If you are fortunate, a bask of crocodiles may be seen in the river. While you’re there, be sure to check out the nearby Crocodile Ranch which offers a safer view of these dangerous animals.

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4. Matobo National Park

Matobo National Park forms the core of Matobo or Matopos Hills covering over 10,600 acres of land.

Matobo is not only a game park but also one of the Zimbabwe national parks heritage site for Zimbabweans. The park hosts the grave of King Mzilikazi and Cecil Rhodes .

Although the high volume of tourists visiting the park in recent years, its scenic view is still one of the best and remains undiluted.

The Matobo National Park is home to the towering granite rocks above the vast plains. If you are looking for rock art, Matobo is one of the places where you will find Bushman rock art sites.

Also, there are over 175 bird and 39 snake species in the park. As a matter of fact, this is one of the Zimbabwe national parks where a self-drive trip is allowed.

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5. Zambezi National Park

Located next to Victoria Falls on the Zambezi valley, the Zambezi is one of the smallest Zimbabwe national parks. Notwithstanding, this park is one of the scenic game reserves in Zimbabwe.

The park boasts of the scenic Zambezi River filled with opportunities to see the magnificent giant African hippo and crocodiles.

During your safari drive into the park, you will likely see elephants, buffalos, giraffes, and zebras. Zambezi national park is also home to a variety of antelopes including the waterbuck, sable, and impala. Zambezi National Park should not be overlooked because it is a great park to visit.

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6. Gonarezhou National Park

Bordering the iconic Limpopo National Park in Mozambique and South Africa’s Kruger National Park , Gonarezhou National Park offers astounding safari experience. The name ‘Gonarezhou’ translates into ‘ place of elephants ’ because it has a massive population of elephants. 

Its rugged and beautiful sceneries are reasons why thousands of tourists flock to visit this park all year-round.  

The fact that the park borders Kruger and Limpopo game reserves mean that it enjoys an abundant variety of wildlife, and a perfect destination for a safari trip. 

The park is also home to all the Big Five game animals, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo, and also an excellent birding destination. If you are looking for a walking safari, then look no further! Although often overlooked, Gonarezhou is worth your time .

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7. Nyanga National Park

Nyanga is in the eastern highlands of Zimbabwe. It is one of the Zimbabwe national parks that are not well known when compared to the others. 

This park is the source of the big rivers that form the spectacular cascade, the iconic Pungwe falls . 

During your visit, check out the vistas, gorges, lakes, and valleys in Nyanga National Park. The park offers incredible hiking and mountain climbing experience for adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies. 

Very often you will come across herds of antelopes, and troops of monkeys. The park is also an excellent birding destination for your Zimbabwe travel.

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8. Matusadona National Park

This game park is located on the shores of Lake Karibu and is best accessed using a boat. 

If you’ve been to Matusadona national park, the one thing you’ll love about this game reserve is the presence of all the Big Five game animals. So if you are looking to see the endangered black rhino during your trip to Zimbabwe, then this is one of the parks you should have on your bucket list. 

The park also boasts of a massive population of hippos and giant crocodiles. There are also more than 240 species of birds.

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9. Chizarira National Park

Chizarira is one of the Zimbabwe national parks that boast of most of the Big Five game animals apart from the rhinoceros.

Although the wildlife density is not huge, the terrain is perfect for a good view; another reason why Chizarira is on the list.

If you are looking forward to an excellent sight of the elusive cat (leopard), Chizarira national park is the place to be. 

One last thing; do you love walking safari? If your answer is yes, then the beautiful, dramatic, and rugged scenery at this game park offers the best experience. The only caveat is that there is no accommodation in the park. Be sure to check out alternative accommodations below.

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10. Kazuma Pan National Park

If you are looking for an adventure, then Kazuma Pan-national park is one of the best destinations. 

The park is an ornithologist’s paradise due to its vast species of water birds. Its remote and preserved wilderness is one of the reasons why tourists flock the park. Bird watching, camping, and game drives are some of the popular activities in the park.

You should keep in mind that an excellent way to explore several parks at the same time is to purchase a tour package ( view tour packages here ).  

You’ll have the benefit of having experienced tour operators that are knowledgeable in navigating through the park t o show you hidden gems that you wouldn’t find by yourself.

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Whew! If you made it to the end of this list, you’re the real MVP. These top 10 Zimbabwe National Parks are key places to consider while planning your trip to Zimbabwe and at least one of these should be on your bucket list. You can easily check off Victoria Falls and National Park off your list.

A word of advice, I suggest booking your trip early preferably at the beginning of the year to get the best safari packages. For those of you that feel a safari might be out of your budget, no worries! This post on what to expect on a budget camping safari will shed light on how to make a safari trip within reach.

When is the best time to visit? Glad you asked. I would recommend you visit during the drier months of the year (April- November) if you want to get the most out of your Zimbabwe travel and don’t forget your free downloadable Zimbabwe packing list .

Our posts on Victoria Falls Zimbabwe , the Great Zimbabwe Ruins , and Zimbabwe Packing List provide the best travel tips, travel guide, and fantastic trip ideas for your upcoming Zimbabwe and Africa travel .

PIN FOR LATER!

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15 comments.

Thank u l really needed this l love it ❣️

Well, if I needed an excuse to go to Zimbabwe, this surely does it. It truly looks like Zimbabwe is quite a place, and I’ve got a lot to explore.

Hello Christopher, I am glad you enjoyed the article. There’s a lot to do in Zimbabwe. I hope someday you get to experience it yourself.

It is a big dream of mine to go on an African safari! I am a sucker for finding the wildlife in my travel destinations. This guide is too perfect, thank you!

I’m glad you enjoyed our posts on Zimbabwe National Parks. What African countries do you have on your bucket list for a Safari trip?

Very cool! We haven’t seen “childhood” animals in the wild – zebras, lions, elephants, etc., only in zoos. It would be really great to see them in the wild. I think it might be difficult for us to make it down to Africa considering the distance between Africa and the Philippines.

You bring up a valid point. Most people feel the same way, and the distance is one of the main concern why more people do not visit Africa. However, I believe just like anything in life, once you make up your mind to do something, anything is possible. Doors start to open and opportunities you never saw become more vivid, right in your very eyes.

Wow, this is such an exotic destination for me. I would be happy to see the national parks of Zimbabwe one day. Love the twin’s blog!

Thank you, Anita! Be sure to bookmark our place and check back for new contents om ideas places you could visit.

I didn’t know that Zimbabwe had so many national national parks! I love the idea of a Safaria and I always wanted to visit the Victoria Falls – who doesn’t. I like the sound of the Mana Pools because I like the idea of exploring a part of nature with a canoe.

Hello Susanne, there’s a lot of places to explore in Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls is a must! There’s a mix of mountains, lakes, and historical sites which makes it a great place for the family or a solo traveler> I hope you get to visit someday.

Wow, each one looks better than the last. I love Hwange National Park because it seems like you can find the Big Five here easily. Mana Pools National Park looks great because its a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Zambezi River flows through it. And Victoria Falls National Park looks amazing because of those magnificent falls! Never considered Zimbabwe in my bucket list but I believe I should!

Medha, I must say I love your attention to detail! Thanks for the excellent feedback. It sounds like you know a lot about UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Are any of the sites on your bucket list?

I’m so glad I came across this post! I’m planning a trip to Zimbabwe near the end of this year and I was just starting to plan the itinerary. This will surely be a helpful resource moving forward. Thank you for sharing and keep up the great work!

Thanks for the positive feedback, Daniel! I’m glad our website could be an outstanding resource for your upcoming Zimbabwe trip. We’ll do our best to provide more exceptional content. Do have lots of fun on your journey and be sure to share your experience with us when you get back.

Comments are closed.

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Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River is always a good idea. But, let’s go a bit further with this and say Zimbabwe, as a whole has roaring wonders to offer. The country is brimming with incredible stunning places to discover, from the lush Harare in the north-eastern to the historic feel  Bulawayo on the  southwest. So, if you plan on traveling to Zimbabwe, indulge your wanderlust by checking out our list for insights and discover the best places to visit in Zimbabwe.

We also recommend our guide to the must-visit museums in Zimbabwe.

A gateway to  Matobo  National Park, Bulawayo is an enchanting city in southwest Zimbabwe, and is famous for its charming colonial architecture. Bulawayo is the best city to visit if you are fond of cities with historic feel to them. Roam the old avenues swaying with lush trees, and plan your safari to the  Hwange National Park , Zimbabwe’s largest natural reserve.

View this post on Instagram I couldn't have picked a better bunch of folks to see Africa with! ???? photo courtesy of @smomenii ? #Travel #Explore #Zimbabwe #Botswana #Africa #MatobosNationalPark #Matobos #NikonPhotography #Wilderness #Safari #Wildernessaddict #Landscape #LandscapePhotography #TravelBlog #NationalGeographic #NatGeo #Nature #Wanderlust #PassionPassport #Nikon #D750 A post shared by Edward Lavallin (@edwardlavallin) on May 24, 2019 at 3:25am PDT

Mutare is located between the  Bvumba  Mountains and south of the  Imbeza  Valley, which makes it one of the most authentic towns. There is plenty to do, enjoy a picnic when the sun is out at the  Vumba Botanical Gardens and Reserve . Take a trip through the Christmas Pass to enjoy one of the most awe-inspiring views of Zimbabwe.

If you are more of a urban person, you should head to  Midlands ,  a province of Zimbabwe  and a central point of the country.  Gweru is the capital of the province  and  the third largest city in Zimbabwe . This sweet part of the country is home to various ethnics, a swift blend of difference vibrant cultures of Zimbabwe. The landscapes and restaurants are happy to welcome you all year round.

Harare  is the capital of Zimbabwe, and therefore the ideal place if you wish to experience a great dining and craft markets in a laid-back  city.  Located in the  Mashonaland region , in north-eastern Zimbabwe, the city is full of varied bars where you can treat yourself to the different varieties of local and international beverages. Rushing off to your safari? But before that, take a stroll on the downtown and explore the wide avenue and high-rises before stopping by  Sam Levy’s Village  to have fun one stop shopping experience. From coffee bars to big brands shops to banks, there’s plenty and something for everyone.

• Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, located on the Matabeleland North province, knows how to be cool and exotic. S urrounded by the Zambezi, Mosi-oa-Tunya and Victoria Falls national parks ; the city is full of natural wonders to see. But if you were to visit only one thing, the Victoria Falls waterfall is definitely where you should be. There, you can enjoy o ne of the most spectacular falls in the world, a majestic view of the fall. Y ou can always escape to the  Mosi-oa-Tunya , and experience iconic  wildlife park featuring great Africa animals including g iraffe, water buffalo, wildebeests, elephant, and hippo.  This Zimbabwean town is a  breathtaking with beauty beyond compare, a fabulous tourism experience!

Masvingo, located close to  Lake  Mutirikwi  and Great Zimbabwe, is capital of the  Masvingo Province . You can indulge in plenty outdoor exploration, enjoy the sun before taking a dip in the lake. Also, when in Masvingo, do not miss the  EAG Art Museum, where you can hang and explore some  interesting Zimbabwean cultural artifacts.

Hwange is located near the Botswana and Zambia boarders in northwestern Zimbabwe. There, you’ll have to chance to explore Hwange National Park, the largest National Park in Zimbabwe. Once in Hwange, don’t miss the opportunity for a great Africa game with exotic animals such as elephant, giraffe, lion and other wildlife. This  town is bustling with life, and you’ll be very happy to be here!

View this post on Instagram An enormous herd of buffalo make their way to drink and cool off at the Wexcau Pan in Hwange National Park. Can you keep count?⠀⠀ ⠀⠀ Location: Linkwasha Camp, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe.⠀⠀ Footage by Graham Simmonds, Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. @graham_r_s_s —————————————-⠀⠀ #zimbabwe #waterhole #hwangenationalpark #linkwashacamp #davisonscamp #littlemakalolo #wearewilderness #wildernesssafaris #buffalo #densitydustdrama #visitzimbabwe #hwange #olympus #omdrevolution #olympusinspired ⠀⠀ A post shared by Wilderness Safaris (@wearewilderness) on May 21, 2019 at 5:27am PDT

Great Zimbabwe

The ruined city in the south-eastern hills of Zimbabwe is  fascinating  place  to visit.  Visiting the Great Zimbabwe is the best way to discover more Zimbabwe through cultural or outdoor sights around.  Used to be capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe during the country’s Late Iron Age, now  recognised as a  World Heritage site by UNESCO.  Lovely cultural outing, b race yourself for some hill hiking.

Lake Kariba

It’s  leisure and pleasure  season, so you immediately think of a great romantic  getaway .  This  world’s largest man-made lake and reservoir  is just the destination you need, a haven for those who love outdoor. Located  on the Zambian borde r, bustling with beauty, offers  amazing houseboat trips where you can enjoy wildlife viewing from shore unspoiled by humans.

Chinhoyi Caves

Located in the north central Zimbabwe, full of  limestone and dolomite caves . A  haven for those who love scuba. This place is home to amazing natural features. Happy to welcome you on hot summer days!

View this post on Instagram The Chinhoyi Caves, Zimbabwe⁣ ⁣ A network of caves with so much beauty and long history in Zimbabwe. It is a perfect place for diving, with great visibility under water. There is no definite answer for how deep the pools go and no one has ever dived to the bottom of this place. ⁣ ⁣ Follow @bitsofafrica ⁣ #bitsofafrica A post shared by Bits of Africa (@bitsofafrica) on Mar 20, 2019 at 11:31am PDT

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Victoria Falls National Park

Victoria Falls (town)

Here on the Zimbabwe side of the falls you're in for a real treat. Some two-thirds of Victoria Falls are located here, including the main falls themselves…

Great Zimbabwe

The mysterious ruined city of Great Zimbabwe dates back to the 11th to 15th centuries AD and remains the emblem and heart of the nation. The Unesco World…

Gonarezhou National Park

Hidden in the southeast corner of the country is the stunning Gonarezhou National Park, ZImbabwe's second largest park (5000 sq km) and regarded by many…

Hwange National Park

One of the 10 largest national parks in Africa, and the largest in Zimbabwe, at 14,651 sq km, Hwange National Park, pronounced ‘Wang-ee’, has a ridiculous…

Matobo National Park

Home to some of the most majestic granite scenery in the world, the Matobo National Park is one of the unsung highlights of Zimbabwe. This Unesco World…

Mana Pools National Park

This magnificent 2200-sq-km national park is a Unesco World Heritage–listed site and its magic stems from its remoteness and pervading sense of the wild…

National Heroes' Acre

The grandiose obelisk of Heroes' Acre, overlooking the town, is straight out of Pyongyang, yet lies just 7km from Harare. Designed with the assistance of…

National Gallery of Zimbabwe

In the southeast corner of Harare Gardens, this lovely gallery has multiple spaces exhibiting a mix of contemporary local, African and international…

Jafuta Heritage Centre

This impressive little museum details the cultural heritage of Zimbabwe's indigenous ethnic groups. There's good background information on the Shona,…

Chimanimani National Park

With its pristine wilderness, Chimanimani National Park is a hiker's paradise. Sharing a border with Mozambique, the park is still very wild and unspoiled…

World's View (Malindidzimu Hill)

One of Zimbabwe's most breathtaking sites, the aptly named World's View takes in epic 360-degree views of the park. The peacefulness up here is immense,…

Chilojo Cliffs

In addition to wildlife, another of Gonarezhou's major drawcards are its majestic Chilojo Cliffs. These spectacular red-and-white banded sandstone columns…

Rock Art Caves

Dotted around the 425-sq-km Matobo National Park are 3000 officially registered rock-art sites, including one of the best collections in the world of San…

Matusadona National Park

Situated on the southern shore of Lake Kariba, the beautiful Matusadona National Park is home to the Big Five, including the endangered black rhino. While…

Delta Gallery

A must for contemporary art lovers is this gallery inside the charming colonial house of eminent Rhodesian painter Robert Paul (1906–79). It showcases…

Wild is Life

A wildlife sanctuary with a difference – sip on afternoon tea and champagne while getting a hands-on experience with the injured, rescued or orphaned…

These National Monument ruins of communities who specialised in pottery date to AD 200 and are one of Zimbabwe's more impressive archaeological sites. The…

Tengenenge Art Community

A must for those in interested in Shona sculpture, as well as traditional Zimbabwean culture, the Tengenenge Art Community overall makes for a rewarding…

Mukuvisi Woodlands Environmental Centre

Only 7km from the city, most of the 265 hectares here are natural msasa parkland where zebras, giraffes and antelope species roam free. View from the…

Lake Chivero Recreational Park

Only 32km from the capital, Lake Chivero is one of the best places in Zimbabwe to spot rhinos in the wild. Run by the national parks, it's home to several…

Nyanga National Park

Scenic and secluded, beautiful Nyanga National Park is 100km north of the Bvumba, the central mountains of the Eastern Highlands. Some parts may remind…

Bushman Rock Safaris

Part winery, part game reserve, part polo field, part boutique lodge: Bushman Rock has a number of faces to it. The vineyard was established in the 1930s…

Lake Kyle (Mutirikwi) Recreational Reserve

Originally called Lake Kyle but now officially know as Lake Mutirikwi is this man-made lake created as a dam in 1960 to irrigate the lowveld sugar cane…

Painted Dog Visitor Centre

An interesting place to visit in-between safaris or en route to the park is this NGO, which works towards the protection of the critically endangered…

National Botanic Gardens

If you thought Harare couldn't get any more relaxed, you clearly haven't visited its botanical gardens. Spread over 68 hectares, it's an extremely…

National Archives of Zimbabwe

Founded in 1935, this building is the repository for the history of Rhodesia and modern Zimbabwe. It's worth a visit to see artefacts, photos, accounts of…

Zambezi National Park

Just 5km from the town centre is this vastly underrated national park, comprising 40km of Zambezi River frontage and a spread of wildlife-rich mopane …

Church of Santa Barbara

This circular, hilltop, Italian-built church was built in the memory of 86 African and Italian construction workers who lost their lives while building…

Eastgate Centre

Inspired by the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, the Eastgate Centre shopping complex is noteworthy for its sustainable design based on a termite mound, which…

Black mambas, spitting cobras and puff adders ain't things you want to come across in the wild, so fortunately they're all here to see behind the safety…

Chinhoyi Caves Recreational Park

Located 4km north of Chinhoyi, along the main highway (135km from Harare), this cave network is worth a stop for its underground lake that's coloured a…

Tobacco Floor

Not quite the NY stock exchange but certainly fast paced. Get among the action on the floors where farmers on one side sell bales of tobacco to brokers on…

Cecil Kop Wildlife & Nature Reserve

Only 2km from Mutare, this low-key nature reserve is definitely worth a visit if you're hanging around town. Set over 1500 hectares, it's home to…

Kariba Dam Wall

Forming the border between Zambia (Siavonga) and Zimbabwe is the Kariba dam wall. It's an impressive engineering feat that you can walk the length across;…

Rhodes Nyanga Historical Exhibition

The Nyanga Historical Exhibition is housed in Cecil Rhodes' (1853–1902) former stables in the grounds next door to the Rhodes Nyanga Hotel. It has a…

Dam Observation Point

Head up to Observation Point for excellent sweeping views of the lake and Kariba Dam. The Kariba Publicity Association is based up here and it houses some…

Great Zimbabwe Museum

Head to the Great Zimbabwe Museum before you start exploring the site to prep yourself and gain some insight through the informative displays there. They…

Bridal Veil Falls

The aptly named Bridal Veil Falls drop 50m in a delicate, fanned manner. It's worth a visit for its tranquil sanctuary location where you can swim at the…

Tessa's Pool

A popular place to visit within the national park is this natural swimming hole. Also here are San rock art paintings, but drop by the Outward Bound…

Tsoko Gallery

This quality art gallery focuses on mixed media and avant-garde works by cutting-edge Zimbabwean artists; it's located in the Doon Estate complex. Its…

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12 Best Places To Visit In Zimbabwe. For wildlife, adventure & culture.

Zimbabwe's recent political history might not make you itch to go and visit, but as things have started taking a good turn, the hidden gems of Zimbabwe are now becoming widely known all around the world.

As the tourism sector continues on massive leaps of growth, more and more people are falling in love with Zimbabwe's nature, history, people, and everything in between.

We have picked some 12 places which we think showcase what Zimbabwe has to offer for the curious mind of a traveller. There are more than 12 places but we honestly don't think we would ever finish if we didn't set a limit.

Top Places To Visit In Zimbabwe

1. victoria falls.

Victoria Falls on the Zambezi is a defining landmark for both Zambia and Zimbabwe, and therefore a very popular and wonderful place to visit. If seeing the world's biggest sheet of falling water isn't impressive, you can engage in other activities such as flying over the falls on a micro flight or even skydiving from up in the skies.

Because of its popularity, you will have so many options to choose from - in terms of activities, accommodation and getting there.

Related Article:   Things to see and do in Victoria Falls

2. Harare, The Capital

As the capital and largest city, Harare is an expression of Zimbabwe's culture, history, art, and people.

From animal sanctuaries, museums, historical burial grounds, markets, and art galleries, Harare is a mixing pot of the past the present, and the future.

3. Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park  is Zimbabwe's largest park and is well known for the big herd of big game - especially buffalo and elephants. Hwange's savannah landscape is popular for game viewing, where you will see the big-5 animals - lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos as well as wild dogs.

With more than 30,000 elephants, Hwange's elephant population is only surpassed by Chobe National Park in Botswana.

Walking safaris in the dry season provides unbelievable closeness to unspoiled nature.

4. Great Zimbabwe Ruins

The Great Zimbabwe Ruins are an important part of Zimbabwe's history, commerce and culture from the 11th and 15th centuries. The stone building with no mortar represents a high standard of Shona People's craftsmanship.

In the local Shona Language, ' Zimbabwe ' directly translates to  'the big stone house'  - a fascinating fact that connects the people of Zimbabwe to this historical place and World Heritage Site.

Related article:  Unveiling the secrets of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins

5. Matobo National Park

Matobo National Park is a scenic piece of Zimbabwe with some of the best majestic granite rock scenery you will encounter anywhere. The huge rocks balancing on top of each other provide a beautiful dramatic effect on the surrounding landscape of small hills.

While the rock outcrops are the main attraction, you will also see the many animals and birds which live in this protected area. You can find  rhinos , leopards,  zebras , hippos, crocodiles and so much more.

If you are a boy scout (or girl guide), you might be happy to know that it was in the Matobo hills where Sir Robert Baden-Powell first learned woodcraft, the fundamentals of scouting from Burnham.

6. Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park is located in the Lower Zambezi area where the floodplain turns into an expanse of lakes as a result of the rainy season.

As the lakes slowly dry up, animals come close to the sources of water. This makes for great wildlife viewing opportunities. Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site based on its pure wilderness and beauty.

The walking safaris and canoe safaris are a perfect way of exploring the area and its wildlife.

7. Lake Kaliba

Lake Kariba was formed by creating a dam on the river Zambezi, and it is shared by both  Zambia  and Zimbabwe - as is the electricity it generates. Lake Kariba is popularly explored by slow cruises on a houseboat, or in smaller boats and canoes.

The abundant wildlife will be a feast for the eyes as you will see hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and birds - which you can do either relaxing in a houseboat or fishing for the fish that is very plentiful in the lake.

8. Matusadona National Park

Matusadona National Park is located on the shores of Lake Kariba and provides a wonderful setting for wildlife viewing. The flood plain along the Lakeshore attracts many animals such as  African buffalos , elephants,  hippos , and black rhinos as well as many bird and animal species.

You can enjoy walking safaris, hiking in the escarpment, as well as canoe and boat rides on Lake Kariba. All these options make game viewing an incredible experience.

9. Bulawayo City

Bulawayo is Zimbabwe's second-biggest city after Harare. While the tree-lined streets give the city a calm and gentle vibe, Bulawayo's history is one of blood since its formation in the 1840s.

Bulawayo is great for arts and culture as it houses the Natural History Museum, a railway museum the Bulawayo Art Gallery. The prime location near several of Zimbabwe's tourist attractions, such as Matobo National Park makes it an ideal place to add for a day or two.

10. Nyanga National Park

Nyanga National Park  lies in Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands and contains Zimbabwe's highest point - Mount Nyangani. The landscape is dominated by green hills, perennial rivers, and waterfalls which makes Nyanga a top place for those who love hiking.

Aside from the capturing landscape, Nyanga National Park has wildlife such as buffalo, lion, leopard, and hyena as well as many birds, fish, and frog species. You will also find some 15th-century ruins of the Ziwa people.

11. Chinhoyi Caves

The Chinhoyi Caves are found some 135 kilometres northwest of Zimbabwe's Capital - Harare. The cave system is comprised of limestone and dolomite, and the main cave is popular for its cobalt-blue waters.

The caves are often visited by divers and some dives have been noted to exceed 300 meters in depth. The water is so clear and the temperatures are constant, which makes the caves open to exploration all year round.

As one of the little-known attractions, visitors often find it quiet and very peaceful.

12. Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou National Park is a protected natural reserve located in the southeast region of Zimbabwe. The park is known for its stunning landscape, which includes a range of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos.

Gonarezhou which directly translates to " Place of many Elephants " is well known for its elephants, especially ones with the largest tusks.

The park borders South Africa's  Kruger National Park  as well as Mozambique's Limpopo National Park. This makes it ideal for those who are visiting the adjacent parks and crossing countries.

Final Thoughts

One thing that is clear about Zimbabwe is that there is so much to see and do. Whether you want the pure wilderness of wildlife, hiking, the adventurous Victoria Falls and the Zambezi or a relaxing day of learning about the art, history and culture, it is all there.

Zimbabwe's political history - especially in the recent past, has overshadowed the massive safari potential of the country. This has left many of these areas unknown to most travellers.

We hope this list has inspired you to visit Zimbabwe and explore the beautiful areas, people, and culture in person.

Related Articles

• Zimbabwe visa requirements for tourists
• Interesting facts about Victoria Falls

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Best places to visit in zimbabwe.

From ancient ruins to beautiful national parks and the world's longest zip line.

19 Dec 2018

16 may 2023.

With its varied landscapes, amazing wildlife and fascinating history, Zimbabwe is a stunning country. A place as big and as diverse as Zimbabwe has a lot to offer in terms of exciting activities to do and interesting places to visit. Whether you are interested in wildlife, history, culture or high adrenaline sports, Zimbabwe has plenty of unforgettable experiences for you. Fly across the Zambezi River on the world's longest zip line, or visit Africa's most impressive ruins outside of Egypt. If wildlife and nature is more your forte, Zimbabwe has a huge selection of game reserves and national parks, the most popular being Hwange. If you really want to experience the African wilderness, trek across Mana Pools National Park on a seven day excursion.

Hwange National Park

A visit to Hwange National Park is the ideal addition to any Zimbabwe itinerary. The largest National Park and possibly the most well known, Hwange consists of sprawling open grasslands and vast swathes of mopane woodland. Interestingly, none of the surface water bodies are natural - instead, they are man-made and are supplied with pumped water which means that Hwange's waterholes are brilliant wildlife viewing spots all year-round. Many of these waterholes have viewing platforms and/or hides that allow you to get very close to Africa's amazing animals.The park contains more wildlife species than any other park in Zimbabwe, including high numbers of lions, leopards, wild dogs and especially elephants, of which there are believed to be 30,000 living within the park. Cheetahs, buffalo and rhinos are also present, along with over 400 different bird species. When staying at Hwange, you have the option of lodging in the main areas of the park or in one of the numerous private concessions.

Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools is a fantastic National Park in the North of Zimbabwe, with UNESCO World Heritage status. This park’s remote location gives guests a sense of being in the African wilderness, with its stunning landscapes and abundance of wildlife. Close encounters with a wide range of animals is guaranteed. There are a number of lodges and camps offering a variety of different experiences, safaris and itineraries. One of our favourites is the 'Greater Mana Experience’, which comprises a six-night trip across Mana Pools National Park and Sapi, a private concession on the eastern border of Mana. Guests explore the Park’s wilderness by foot, vehicle and boat, taking in the sights and sounds of the African bush and getting up close to the wildlife, staying in a different camp every couple of nights. This varied itinerary means that guests receive a wide range of different experiences and have the chance to really connect with the surrounding nature. The knowledge gained of the park’s environment will also be second to none.

Matobo Hills National Park

A haven for wildlife, especially white and black rhinos, Matobo Hills National Park is also a place of cultural and historical interest. It is such a remarkable location that in 2003 it was given World Heritage status. 2,000 years ago, Bushmen called the Matobo hills their home, and the artwork that they painted on the rocks and boulders can still be seen today. Guests can go on tours with knowledgeable guides to visit this incredible historical site. Matobo is also well known for its remarkable balancing rock formations, such as the ‘mother and child’.

The park is also a protection zone for both white and black rhinos, both of which are endangered species. Guests to Matobo can go on game drives to see these animals, or track them on foot on a bush walk. Bush walks are an amazing way to experience and connect with the African wilderness, and allow the opportunity to get up close to these incredible animals.

Great Zimbabwe

Great Zimbabwe is the biggest historical site in Africa after the Pyramids in Egypt and is one of the few genuine historical experiences that you can have on the continent, due to the heavy focus on wildlife and safaris. Once an important town, Great Zimbabwe was made up of impressive granite buildings, with towers, turrets and elegant staircases. Expert craftsmanship built these structures without using mortar – instead, the stones were packed tightly together to create some rather unique shapes. Historians believe that between 10,000 to 20,000 people called this affluent trading centre home, doing business with nations such as China, India and Persia. However, by the 16th century, the town was deserted and had fallen into ruins. No one knows why.

Gonarezhou National Park

Off the beaten track, Gonarezhou is a fantastic national park located in the South East of Zimbabwe. Filled with rivers, flood plains, waterfalls and rocky gorges, Gonarezhou is an absolutely beautiful location. Breathtaking views can be seen from the top of the Chilojo cliffs – giants red sandstone towers that loom 200 metres above the surrounding plains and instill a sense of wonder in their beholders, making them one of the park’s most distinctive features. A series of conservation breakthroughs means that Gonarezhou is teeming with wildlife, including large populations of elephants, lions, cheetahs and African wild dogs to name just a few. The lack of other tourists gives visitors a sense of truly being in the African wilderness and provides a more personal, private experience. There are a variety of accommodation options in Gonarezhou, although no matter where you stay, you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable safari experience.

Eastern Highlands

A stunning mountain range in the East of Zimbabwe, with spectacular views and a huge variety of fun and exciting activities on offer, the Eastern Highlands are a worthy contender on any itinerary. Full of unspoilt wilderness, the area contains several national parks and nature reserves, such as Nyanga National Park and Cecil Kop Wildlife and Nature Reserve. It is also an ideal place to go hiking, with many established walks throughout the area, of varying degrees of difficulty. For more of an historical experience, there are several small ruins that can be visited, including the Ziwa ruins, which date back to 200AD. Alternatively, you can tour the Rhodes Nyanga Historical Exhibition or visit Tessa’s pool, a natural swimming hole with ancient rock paintings nearby. The Eastern Highlands also boasts several waterfalls and caves that can be explored.

Victoria Falls

If high adrenaline sports are what you're after, then Victoria Falls is the place for you. Located on the Zambezi river, this area has a number of water based activities on offer, such as white water rafting in canoes and kayaks. Or, if you are feeling particularly daring, you can ride the rapids on a body board. Aerial adventures include experiencing Victoria Falls’ zipline, the longest one in the world at 425 metres, or bungee jumping from the Victoria falls bridge. Not the highest bungee jump in the world, but perhaps the most scenic, with Victoria falls providing a stunning backdrop while you hurtle 111 metres downwards towards the world famous Zambezi river. A less hair-raising activity is taking a flight over Victoria falls waterfall in a helicopter, an amazing experience that provides breathtaking views.

Wondering when to visit? Take a look at this guide on the best time to visit Zimbabwe .

Looking for some more inspiration? Take a look at our best safari holidays ideas , our favourite family safaris , our big five safari guide or our top African safari honeymoon suggestions .

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Victoria Falls Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is southern Africa’s landlocked pearl, with a tropical climate somewhat mitigated by the country’s elevation, a hugely diverse range of landscape, and – due to a downturn in tourism in recent years – a genuine feeling of being off the beaten track, an undiscovered country.

There are three main areas/reserves to visit in Zimbabwe: Hwange , Malilangwe and Mana Pools . The first is by a healthy margin Zimbabwe’s largest park and incorporates everything from desert to wetlands, and a correspondingly comprehensive range of wildlife. Malilangwe, in the south, is a smaller concern but notable for having escaped much of the poaching which has blighted other parts of Zimbabwe. It is run as a non-profit organisation, and boasts one of the highest concentrations anywhere of black rhino. Mana Pools, meanwhile, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers incredible flora and fauna and is a model for ecologically-conscious tourism.

Though not quite as plentiful as in some other countries, accommodation in Zimbabwe encompasses quite a range, with very solid options in every category from truly luxurious lodges to the basic-but-comfortable tented camps. There are luxury camps such as Hwange’s Linkwasha Camp , which offers attentive and expert service, comfort and access to incredible game, or in the east of the park Little Makalolo , on a private concession and with the benefit of its own watering-hole.

There are some stunning safari lodges, including Malilangwe’s Pamushana , while for a truly classic camp Mana Pools’s Ruckomechi is hard to beat.

Activities centre around wildlife and spectacular scenery in Zimbabwe. How it is experienced, however, depends on the exact camp and location: from night-time driving safaris to canoeing down the Zambezi, from game walks with expert guides to fascinating talks from in-house conservationists, from rhino-tracking to bird watching, the range of possibilities is endless, with many camps offering cultural visits as well as massage/yoga facilities.

If you would like to find out more about any of our luxury and frontier Zimbabwe destinations, then please do contact us today.

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Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: Where to Stay, What to Do

The first thing you’ll notice is the silence, then slowly, as your eyes and ears become attuned to the surroundings, the orchestra of Africa’s bush comes alive.

By Cindy-Lou Dale Senior Writer

When in Africa, you’ll often hear passing references to Zimbabwe’s famed hospitality, and nowhere would you appreciate it more than at the iconic World Heritage Site of Victoria Falls. Everyone smiles warmly and greets you like an old friend; they’re all genuinely delightful. How could they not be, living in a World Heritage site?

The Elephant Camp

The camp itself is exquisite and surpasses all levels of modern luxury and conjured up an era of Victorian frontier camping.

There are 16 canvas suites – each looks onto the cliffs that plummet to the boiling Zambezi River below.

In the distance, the silver-grey spray of Victoria Falls presents an impossibly majestic backdrop to the definitive African adventure. They’ve

Before sunrise, I was driven to a lookout point, where I stood at the edge of a precipice—an enormous, deeply carved crevice torn into the earth’s crust, exposing the raging Zambezi River 120 meters below. I was mesmerized, witnessing the incredible power of nature so blatantly displayed.

 Heat Dissipates

Following a late afternoon waterhole visit, when the edge of Africa’s heat dissipates and the shadows of the mopane trees lengthen, my guide found a picturesque sundowners spot.

I folded down into a camping chair and watched the sun slowly sink below the horizon, stars creeping into the crimson and tangerine sky long before it had completed its descent.

* The Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary and Orphanage is a safe haven for orphaned and injured elephants and ensures following the rescue, rehabilitation, and release model. Be sure to partake in this experience.

www.theelephantcamp.com

Victoria Falls Safari House

Driving through the gates of the lodge an Ndebele tribesman, in traditional tribal gear, bids us a good day and shakes his spear at a sign announcing our arrival at the premium address of Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. The road, shaded by tall Mopani trees, delivers us to a grand thatched lodge.

Inside the 72-roomed sunset-facing lodge, with its cathedral ceilings, it’s breathtaking and voluminous. Built of thatch and timber, the lodge rises several levels, giving the impression of a vast open-plan tree house.

From the terracotta-tiled lobby on the ground floor there are various levels taking you to viewing decks, the Buffalo Bar, and the MaKuwa-Kuwa restaurant. It’s open-sided and airy, with uninterrupted views across the frequently visited waterhole.

* For an authentic Victoria Falls food experience, you need to reserve a table at The Boma, a restaurant on the estate. It’s an unforgettable fusion of mouth-watering local cuisine, legendary dance performances, and interactive drumming. It bombards the senses with the tastes, sights, and sounds of Africa.

* At lunchtime daily, join the Vulture Culture Experience, and take in the spectacular sight of hundreds of vultures swooping in and feeding on leftover meat scraps and bones from the on-site restaurants, which provides a safe food source without creating dependency, and learn about their conservation.

www.victoria-falls-safari-lodge.com

Stanley and Livingstone Boutique Hotel

The world’s most indulgent hotels all have one quality that makes them stand out from one another. Sometimes it’s the faultlessly attentive staff, or sublime comfort, or the right whiff – the Stanley & Livingstone has it all.

It’s Victorian in spirit and décor, with the interiors of a gentrified colonial home. There are 16 suites which comprise of low hanging thatched roofed rondavels arranged in a half-moon around the show garden.

Sitting on the stoep of the main lodge looking just beyond the garden is a waterhole surrounded by towering Sweetgum trees. A troop of baboons were taunting a herd of zebra standing underneath. A dozen or so impala drifted into view, and to one side stood a solitary giraffe.

Other than incessant birdsong, the Stanley & Livingstone is whisper quiet, because, unlike other lodges, it’s a little further away from the Victoria Falls which is a massive plus as you don’t have the constant whirring noises of helicopter tours overhead. But it’s still close enough for a quick visit as it’s a short 20-minute drive to the Falls.

* The reserve is designated as an Intensive Protection Zone for the critically endangered black rhino, and implement a monitoring and breeding program, alongside an Anti-Poaching Unit and Ranger Training Facility. Take a late afternoon game drive into the reserve in search of these magnificent beasts and hear their plight from your ranger.

www.more.co.za/stanleyandlivingstone

When in Victoria Falls, be sure to have your lodge arrange a visit to Ko Mpisi Village and meet Melusi Mpisi Ndlovu, a proud Ndebele tribesman, and one of the world’s most distinguished traditional healers.

Africa’s Medicine Man

The ‘Chief’, as Ndlovu is commonly referred to, is surrounded by wooden bowls filled with an assortment of herbs, twisted plant roots, and strips of tree bark.

For poor Zimbabweans, traditional medicines are their first and last defense against diseases that wreak havoc on their lives. Even though Western medicine is recognized in Africa, it has not substituted but rather supplemented the ethnic health approach.

Thus, practitioners like Ndlovu remain central to the lives of many.

Ndlovu is a charismatic and distinguished medicine man known throughout Africa as a traditional healer, and internationally famed in the alternative medicine field.

His wisdom has been sought twice by the late Queen of England, and the British House of Lords. He regularly consults with major British and American pharmaceutical companies on cancer cures, but also opposes their attempts to patent traditional African herbal medicines.

In recent years he saved the life of an 11-year-old who’d received a lethal bite from Africa’s much-feared black mamba.

The hospital could only save her by amputating her arm, but Ndlovu did both. Prestigious universities from around the world now send PhD students to Ndlovu, to learn of his snakebite cures.

He has no formal education, yet he’s sophisticated and sharp witted.

“Traditional herbal medicine,” he says, “is found in naturally occurring plant and animal-based substances, which has minimal to no industrial processing.

People consult traditional healers whether they can afford modern medicines or not. It’s a belief system, integral to the lives of most Africans. There are some things Western medicine cannot fathom. You see, doctors who train in Western sciences, focus only on the biomedical causes of disease.

We traditional healers have a holistic approach. Some divine the cause of an illness by throwing bones and listening to the channeled curative advice of dead ancestors. Whilst others, like me, have in-depth knowledge of plant materials and their various healing powers.”

Wherever you choose to stay, when you leave Victoria Falls, it’s guaranteed that a big piece of your soul will stay behind.

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This guide to Victoria Falls is fantastic! Your detailed tips on where to stay and what to do truly capture the magic of this destination. Can’t wait to plan my trip—thanks for the inspiration! Top Schools in Sonipat | Best School in Sonipat

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Best Places to Visit on your South Africa Holidays

Now, we all know that holidays in South Africa are something special. With the wildlife, the culture, the magnificent landscapes, the beaches, the wine and so on and so on, how could they not be? It is a country that offers the kind of adventure that leaves you begging for more, a vibe that is impossible not to love, AND its got lions and elephants for goodness’ sake! In this blog we’re going to be a little bit cheeky and give ‘South Africa Holidays’ a slightly wider meaning and share with you the best places to visit on your southern Africa holidays, because there are other places in the region that you really don’t want to miss. Whether you want to add them onto your tour of South Africa or explore them as destinations in their own right, places like Namibia , Botswana and Zimbabwe offer the same spectacular safari experiences, the same incredible natural sights, the same rich, indigenous culture but with that little bit of extra adventure. Here are our best places to visit on your South Africa holidays…

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Stretching a whopping 1,708 metres Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘the Smoke that Thunders’), or Victoria Falls, is one spectacular sight and UNESCO World Heritage Site to boot. The waters of the Zambezi River plummet 100 metres into the Zambezi Gorge, creating both the famous thunder and smoke, really a mist, that have been mesmerising travellers for centuries.

Sossusvlei, Namibia

Among the ochre-hued dunes of the ancient Namib Desert there are many hidden secrets. See some of the world’s tallest sand dunes, stand in the otherworldly salt clay pans of Sossusvlei and Deadvlei and walk through the atmospheric Sesriem Canyon in an incredible, timeless setting.

Panorama Route, South Africa

Not to be confused with the coastal (and ever popular) Garden Route , if you’re look to add some truly spectacular scenery to your holiday in South Africa, the Panorama Route should be on your itinerary. Think towering mountains, canyons and forests and you’ll have an idea of some of the enthralling views that await you.

Chobe National Park, Botswana

Considered one of the best wildlife destinations in the world, the Chobe National Park and is particularly well known for its huge population of elephants. Set around the Chobe River, as well as game drives, taking a river cruise gives excellent access to the huge array of wildlife that calls the park home.

Cape Winelands, South Africa

The Cape Winelands is South Africa’s most prolific wine region, ready and waiting to fill your holiday with celebrated vineyards and exceptional gastronomy. Surrounded by mountains that help maintain the perfect microclimate for grapes, you can enjoy wine here in the most spectacular setting, made all the more charming by the old Cape Dutch architecture.

Zambezi River Safari, Zimbabwe

There are many stories of the adventures had on the mighty Zembezi – one of those adventures is to cruise its waters at sunrise or sunset and spot the glorious array of wildlife that frequent it. Exploring the river’s islands and channels you’re likely to spot hippos and crocodiles wallowing in the shallows and elephants on its banks.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

One of the largest and best-known national parks in Africa and an essential element of any holiday in South Africa, Kruger is iconic for its sheer numbers and diversity of wildlife. Exploring its vast wilderness on safari, there are over 500 bird species and 147 mammal species to spot, including the ‘Big 5’ – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalos.

Meet the Himba people, Namibia

The semi-nomadic Himba tribe live as their ancestors did, cattle herding, hunting and gathering in the harsh conditions of northern Namibia. Getting to experience this ancient way of life and the community’s age-old culture and traditions is a privilege that this warm and friendly people are only too happy to share with visitors.

At Wendy Wu Tours, we know all about the glorious adventures that southern Africa has to offer because we’ve been there, done them and created the tour. Our Kruger to Cape Explored tour, Namibia Adventure tour and Wonders of Botswana & Zimbabwe private tours contain all of the above destinations and activities and so much more. Book an incredible holiday to southern Africa now, we dare you!

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Remains of South African Freedom Fighters Arrive Home From Zimbabwe and Zambia

The remains of 49 freedom fighters who died while exiled in Zimbabwe and Zambia during the struggle against white minority rule in South Africa have been returned to the country

Shiraaz Mohamed

One of the remains of South Africans who died while exiled in Zimbabwe and Zambia during the struggle against white minority rule arrive at the Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria, South Africa, Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Shiraaz Mohamed)

JOHANNESBURG (AP) — The remains of 42 South African freedom fighters who died while exiled in Zimbabwe and Zambia during the struggle against white minority rule arrived in their home country Wednesday.

The remains were received by government officials and family members at Waterkloof Air Force Base in the capital Pretoria after being exhumed for reburial in the country of their birth.

This was part of a government program to bring closure to families, whose loved ones died away from home while serving in the underground structures of both the African National Congress and Pan Africanist Congress, according to officials.

Before the apartheid system ended in South Africa in 1994, many activists left the country to receive military training elsewhere with the aim of returning home to wage an armed struggle.

Others left the country to avoid being arrested by the apartheid regime for their involvement in anti-apartheid activities, and chose Zimbabwe and Zambia where the underground structures were the strongest.

After it was banned in South Africa, the African National Congress party of Nelson Mandela, shifted its headquarters to the Zambian capital, Lusaka.

Many died in exile and were buried in those countries.

Among the remains returned to South Africa were those of freedom struggle stalwarts Duma Nokwe, Florence Mophosho and Basil February.

Speaking during a Heritage Day event in South Africa on Tuesday, South Africa's Deputy President Paul Mashatile said the repatriation was part of efforts to teach future generations about the role played by many in the struggle against apartheid.

“As a national memory project, this initiative aims to commemorate, celebrate, educate, promote, preserve, conserve, and provide a durable testament to South Africa’s road to freedom,” Mashatile said.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to host a homecoming ceremony for the repatriated remains on Friday before they are handed over to families for reburials.

The government said Wednesday it was in the process of repatriating the remains of other South Africans from Lesotho, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Angola, Russia and other countries.

“I hope this process will culminate in getting more people in other countries who died under difficult conditions. We welcome them back to connect with their families," Deputy Defense Minister Bantu Holomisa said.

Follow AP's Africa coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/africa

Copyright 2024 The  Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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