Zimbabwe’s remarkable natural landscape is one of its main draws. From awe-inspiring bodies of water to vast national parks, the country offers a wide range of tailor-made adventures for both thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Whether it’s bungee jumping, canoe safaris, freshwater fishing, golf, African safaris, trekking, or hiking, Zimbabwe has something for everyone. Even those in search of relaxation won’t be disappointed. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to narrow down your itinerary. To help, Bookmundi highlights the top 12 best things to do in Zimbabwe.
Victoria Falls (Above Image)
Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders, gained international fame when British explorer Dr. David Livingstone discovered it in 1885, and its popularity has only grown since. Located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, the falls plunge 108 meters (almost twice the height of Niagara Falls), creating a mist of water that is truly a sight to behold. A visit to the falls is a romantic experience, and you can take a walk along the Victoria Falls Bridge, which is now a popular spot for bungee jumping.
Balancing Rocks
Balancing rocks can be found throughout Zimbabwe, but the most famous ones are located in Epworth, just a 20-minute drive from Harare. These rocks are the second most visited tourist attraction in the country and even feature on the local currency. Not only do they offer a fascinating glimpse into natural wonders that appear to defy the laws of gravity, but they are also used to symbolize the importance of development that respects and preserves Zimbabwe’s delicate environment.
Bulawayo
Bulawayo, one of Zimbabwe’s key commercial and tourist hubs, is home to the renowned National Museum. It’s also conveniently located near other notable attractions such as the Khami Ruins and the Rhodes Matopos National Park, famous for its massive granite boulders. The city’s colonial-era architecture, historic landmarks, tree-lined streets, vibrant food scene, and excellent shopping options make it a top destination for visitors.
The Hwange National Park Safari, previously known as the Wankie National Park, is the largest national park in the country, both in terms of its animal and bird population and in terms of size. The Hwange National Park Safari is mostly popular as one of the greatest elephant sanctuaries in Africa as more than 40000 elephants are known to live here. Apart from elephant sightings, these safaris also bring you closer to 100 mammal species such as the rhino, leopard and lion. Hwange National Park Safari is incredibly accessible and you can choose from day and night game drives or walking safaris. Bookmundi recommends you to visit the park between the months of August to October.
Zambezi River Cruise
Zambezi River Cruise lets you explore the mopane forest and savannah regions of the Zambezi River and presents a wide spectrum of African wildlife. The area is brimming with herds of sable antelopes and is also home to lions, elephants and giraffes. The main entrance to the park is located very close to the Victoria Falls town and you can choose from game drives, fishing expeditions and guided hikes.
World’s View
Malindidzimu Hill, or World’s View, ranks as one of the most breathtaking sites of Zimbabwe. This magnificent destination offers unparalleled 360-degree views and presents an inspired level of peacefulness. The peaceful and serene surrounding makes you feel completely at ease and refreshes your mind. The multi-colored lichen, giant boulders and rainbow-stripped lizards also make World’s View feel as if it has been transported from another planet.
Mana Pools National Park
The Mana Pools National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the country. Located along the shores of the Zambezi River, the park is home to all kinds of animals such as hippos, rhinos, buffalo, antelope and elephants. Numerous species of birds can be seen along the river and game-viewing on foot is also allowed.
Elephant’s Walk Shopping & Artist Village
Elephant’s Walk Shopping & Artist Village is a must-visit for those searching for quality African crafts. This unique shopping destination presents a variety of boutique galleries and stores that aim to promote local artists and offer tourists a genuine and reliable destination wherein they can purchase the most authentic crafts. You can also enjoy some of the locally brewed Zimbabwean coffee and sample tasty delicacies at the Coffee Shop.
Harare
Harare, formerly known as Salisbury, is the capital of Zimbabwe and the starting point for most travelers visiting the country. Popularly called Sunshine City, Harare is extremely clean and sophisticated and has everything you could expect in a modern-day cosmopolitan city. It is characterized by beautiful parks, contemporary architecture and flowering trees and presents a beautiful culture and thriving nightlife as well. Local highlights include the Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens, Lion & Cheetah Park and the Lavron Bird Gardens.
Zambezi River Rafting Trip
If river cruises sound boring, why not opt for a rafting adventure instead. River rafting is a far better way of getting your adrenaline rush when compared to activities such as bungee-jumping because it gives you the best of two worlds – adventure and natural beauty. The Zambezi River lets you take on some of the biggest navigable rapids on the world, and this makes the prospect of white-water rafting even more exciting. Zambezi River Rafting trips range from one day to three days.
Chinhoyi Caves
Located close to the Chivero National Park is an impressive natural structure known as the Chinhoyi Caves. This group of caves hosts a fascinating collection of embedded fossils that are truly worth a watch. The biggest highlight is the Sleeping Pool, a crystal clear lake that dives to depths of 130m and presents an exciting diving site.
Great Zimbabwe National Monument
Great Zimbabwe National Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, the capital of the Queen of Sheba and an important trading station during the Middle Ages. Legends have it that Great Zimbabwe was once used as a playground by giants, and a simple peek over this steep hill is more than enough to make you understand why. It is also known to be one of the most important and most visited historical sites in Africa.
Decades of violence and crime gave Zimbabwe a bad rap, but tourism is finally coming back in droves. Visitors are returning in large numbers to explore the Big Five and wander around UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient ruins, national parks and old-world towns. A trip to Zimbabwe takes you through a seductive collection of landscapes and Bookmundi helps you choose the best tours and adventures that let you enjoy these attractions to the fullest.
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