6 Must-See Destinations in Zimbabwe

Surrounded by Mozambique, Botswana, Zambia, and South Africa, Zimbabwe stands out as an exceptional choice for travelers eager to dive deep into the heart of Africa. You will find an abundance of exciting options when choosing your destination in Zimbabwe. In the heart of the country, expansive conservation areas like the magnificent Hwange National Park, alongside the stunning lake-and-river locales of Matusadona and Mana Pools, offer a wealth of opportunities for incredible wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes. Zimbabwe national parks offer stunning landscapes that are often free from crowds, and then there’s the breathtaking spectacle of Victoria Falls.

Explore our Zimbabwe safari guide to discover all the essential information for crafting your perfect adventure in Zimbabwe.

1. Victoria Falls: Thrilling Experiences, Wildlife Encounters & Breathtaking Landscapes

The ideal moment to explore Zimbabwe for an extraordinary experience is during the peak flow of Victoria Falls. Include a visit to your bucket list and uncover the countless reasons it’s regarded as a Natural Wonder – from the vast waterfalls, the distinctive towering formations, to the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is an enchanting travel destination.

Additionally, the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is celebrated as Africa’s ‘adventure capital’ due to the diverse array of activities available. Experience breathtaking flights, exhilarating bungee jumps, thrilling white-water rafting, wildlife encounters, and serene Zambezi River cruises, along with visits to captivating local markets and traditional villages.

Embark on a journey to discover hidden cascades

2. Hwange National Park: Timeless Wildlife Encounters & Avian Exploration

Hwange stands out as Zimbabwe’s premier big game reserve, teeming with a rich array of wildlife that promises an unforgettable safari experience for all who venture there. Situated just a few hours’ drive from Victoria Falls, the collection of engaging camps in Hwange offers an ideal spot to recharge after exhilarating wildlife encounters. Hwange National Park boasts remarkable populations of elephants, second only to Botswana’s Chobe National Park, and serves as a fantastic location for observing Africa’s majestic big predators.

Realm of Majestic Behemoths

3. Mana Pools National Park: Stunning Natural Landscape & Canoeing Expeditions

Untamed, secluded, and seldom explored, Mana Pools stretches alongside the grand Zambezi River, where its woodlands and wetlands shelter vast herds of elephants, elusive antelope, and an abundance of plains game. The rivers teem with hippos and crocodiles, tigerfish and bream, while a wealth of Mana Pools lodges awaits to be your safari sanctuary throughout your visit. Best discovered through drives, guided walks, and canoe expeditions, Mana Pools is a true wilderness area that offers an exhilarating, unconventional safari experience. Mana Pools is the ultimate destination for experiencing the thrill of Zimbabwe’s magnificent wildlife.

Set off on an exhilarating safari

4. Matusadona National Park & Lake Kariba: Experience lakeside living, encounter big game, and enjoy fishing.

Kariba’s enchanting landscape and serene vibe are renowned alongside its diverse wildlife. Surrounded by conservation areas, the lake draws a variety of wildlife: hippos frolic in the shallows, elephants and antelopes feed at the water’s edge, and African fish eagles rest on the gnarled branches of dead trees. Adjacent to Matusadona National Park, you will find thrilling game drives, guided walks, and exhilarating boat safaris, along with fantastic tiger fishing and breathtaking sunsets over Kariba.

A Water-Based Safari

5. Gonarezhou National Park & Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve: Untamed Wilderness, Incredible Diversity & Stunning Landscapes

Zimbabwe’s untouched southern region is a haven for the Big 5, and the wild beauty of Gonarezhou is bound to captivate, complemented by the unique allure of Malilangwe, a private reserve that shares its borders with the park. In addition to the breathtaking landscapes, guests can look forward to encountering rhinos, elephants, and buffalo, along with majestic big cats and wild dogs. The birdlife here is nothing short of spectacular: Malilangwe has documented 400 species of birds and is home to one of the highest concentrations of raptors in the world, featuring 14 species of eagle.

Uncover the Majestic Big Five

6. Zambezi National Park: Exciting Game Drives & Scenic River Cruises, Near Victoria Falls

Just upstream of Victoria Falls lies the Zambezi National Park, a vibrant and wildlife-filled reserve that unfolds along the expansive, gently flowing Zambezi River. Drawing fewer visitors than neighbouring Chobe National Park in Botswana, this largely unknown reserve offers fantastic dry-season game viewing without the crowds: expect large numbers of elephant, buffalo, hippo and giraffe, but remain vigilant for lion, leopard, and even wild dog. The birdlife along the river is absolutely captivating, and we wholeheartedly suggest embarking on a river safari. If you find yourself in Victoria Falls, embarking on a day game drive through Zambezi National Park offers an exhilarating glimpse into Zimbabwe’s rich tapestry of wildlife.

Journey Down the River