Check out our list of the most exciting places to visit and explore in Zimbabwe – both classic Zimbabwe tourist attractions and some hidden gems that are not to be missed!
1. Great Zimbabwe
The name Zimbabwe came from the heritage of Great Zimbabwe. This historical site was built in the 11th century and has the largest collection of stone ruins in Southern Africa. Part of the ruins is situated on a rocky hill, where the chief was seated, which offers visitors a short hike. On the top you can enjoy the magnificent view of the ruins, surrounding landscape and the replica of a traditional Shona village. Great Zimbabwe became a World Heritage Site in 1986, and a visit to these ruins gives a broader understanding of the country’s history, society and great legends. Great Zimbabwe is situated close to the town of Masvingo, a four hour drive from the capital, Harare.
2. Victoria Falls
When you experience the energy and power of the water crashing into the gorge below, you will no longer doubt why the Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is truly a spectacular sight. There are a million things to do at Victoria Falls, including sunset cruises and canoeing on the Upper Zambezi to greet the hippos and crocodiles, and you can take an elephant ride or walking safari in the surrounding national parks and wilderness. If you search for an adrenaline rush go bungee jumping or experience the rafting activities down the Zambezi. Victoria Falls are located on the Zambezi River. Go by air to Victoria Falls Town or, if you feel adventurous, do a complete road trip, 714 km from Harare.
3. Lake Kariba
Lake Kariba is a place of incredible beauty that is a nature lover’s dream. Houseboats are a great way to experience the lake, as you get to wake up at new places every day enjoying the wildlife and the calming scenery. If you decide on staying on land you might find yourself waking up greeting elephants, crocodiles and hippos at the shoreline. The lake was created when a dam was built across the Zambezi, a collaboration between Zambia and Zimbabwe. A trip to the border by Kariba allows you to take a walk on the Dam Wall, with the view of Zambia on the other side. Kariba can be reached via a scenic route about 4-5 hours’ drive from Harare.
4. Chinhoyi Caves – Mutorashanga
The blue water of the Chinhoyi Caves is mesmerizing and a wonder to see. The grottos and pool are a spectacle that we encourage all tourists and locals to visit at least once in their lifetime. The aura of mystery the caves emit makes you want to return to the caves again and again. The traditional name for the Caves is “Chirorodziva” which means the “Pool of the Fallen”, and the caves are also considered a sacred place. Go and become enchanted! The Chinhoyi Caves are located north-west of the town of Chinhoyi, 120 km from Harare. It makes for a perfect stop on your way to or from Kariba.
5. Hwange National Park
Come in harmony with nature by exploring Hwange National Park, one of the most popular Zimbabwe tourist attractions. The park is named after a local Nhanzwa chief, and accounts for an area of 14,651km², making it Zimbabwe’s largest National Park. Through various safari tours you get to experience the tremendous selection of wildlife, with over 100 species of mammals and nearly 400 bird species. The elephants of Hwange are world famous and the Park’s elephant population is one of the largest in the world. Hwange National Park is located in the northwest corner of the country about one hour south of Victoria Falls.
6. Eastern Highlands (Inyanga, Vumba, Honde Valley, Burma Valley, Chimanimani)
This rugged and scenic range of mountains in the east of Zimbabwe is not to be missed when exploring the country. The area is full of waterfalls, streams, gorges and rich wildlife that will fill you up with new and pure energy! You are constantly surrounded by small pieces of paradise that will take your breath away. South of the city of Mutare you find a tropical baobab tree area, and further out is Chirinda Forest where you will become amazed by the 600 year old mahogany. Eastern Highlands is a three-hour drive from Harare, and it will take you about four hours on a bus.
7. Mana Pools National Park
This UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site is one of Zimbabwe’s most famous parks and arguably the most enticing Zimbabwe tourist attraction. ‘Mana’ means four in the local language Shona and this applies to the four large pools inland from the Zambezi river. The vegetation of Faidherbia albida woodlands on the old river terraces gives an unique look to the area and a surreal light filters through the trees giving Mana Pools its distinctive cathedral-like atmosphere. When exploring the park you will see a great variety of birds, crocodiles, hippos and elephants, and if you are really lucky you might spot a cheetah. Mana Pools is a truly remote park, located in the north, far from any major town or settlement – 345 km from Harare.
8. Bulawayo & Matopos
Matopos means ‘bald heads’, and this UNESCO World Heritage Site has great spiritual and cultural significance to the local people and there are many sites within the park where important ceremonies will take place. It is also the site for the grave of Cecil John Rhodes, buried at the hill of the benevolent spirits. Inside the park you get to experience a variety of animals and picturesque views – domes, spires and balancing rock formations. The magnificent Matopo Matobo hills is a paradise for hikers with its rugged terrain and manifold vegetation. The Matobo (Matobo National Park) is located about 40 km south of the city of Bulawayo.
9. Matusadona
A National Park, declared an Intensive Protection Zone and home to relocated Rhinos. The Park lies on the shores of Lake Kariba, surrounded by rugged mountains safeguarding flora and fauna, while inhabiting the largest density of lions in Zimbabwe. Spectacular views can be expected during sunset on the lake, with the mountains providing a beautiful backdrop. There are over 400 bird species in the park, which makes it the best travelling place for birding, and photography. Matusadona is accessible by air, with a 800m landing strip (Category II); by boat either from the neighbouring Bumi Hills or from Kariba Town. This unbridled adventure is also accessible by road via Karoi, however, not during the rainy season, and enquiries regarding the state of the road should be made before travelling.
10. Mzarabani Wilderness Area & Mavuradona
Declared a National Monument by the Zimbabwe Government because of its historical and cultural importance, Mavuradonha is a wilderness area, whose name when loosely translated means ‘land of falling water’. It is seldom visited, either by international or local tourists. As a result, it is one of Zimbabwe’s true wildernesses, with well-developed miombo woodlands as well as endemic succulents among other plant species that are unique to the Great Dyke. Mavuradonha is located a mere three hours from Harare, with a rough terrain that forms the Zambezi Escarpment that is not suitable for low clearance vehicles.
