Zimbabwe Travel Guide

Make your trip to Zimbabwe unforgettable with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out what to do, where to go, and what to see in this vibrant and culturally rich destination.


Introduction to Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa, bordered by Zambia to the north, Mozambique to the east, Botswana to the west, and South Africa to the south. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife, making it a popular destination for travelers around the world. In this travel guide of Zimbabwe, we’ll take a closer look at the must-see attractions, best things to do, hiking and biking routes, local food and drink scene, where to stay, and more. Let’s begin!

List of Places to Visit in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is home to numerous cultural and natural attractions. Here are some of the must-see places in the country:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Great Zimbabwe National Monument
  • National Gallery of Zimbabwe
  • Harare Gardens
  • Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences
  • National Heroes Acre

Natural Attractions of Zimbabwe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Victoria Falls
  • Hwange National Park
  • Matobo National Park
  • Eastern Highlands
  • Lake Kariba

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe offers a variety of hiking and biking trails for adventure enthusiasts. Here are a few popular routes:

  • Chimanimani Mountains
  • Nyanga National Park
  • Matobo Hills
  • Mavuradonha Wilderness Area
  • Harare Greenbelt

Best Things to Do in Zimbabwe: Activities and Tours

Zimbabwe offers a range of fun activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Bungee Jumping from Victoria Falls Bridge
  • Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River
  • Game Drive in Hwange National Park
  • Fishing on Lake Kariba
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari in Hwange National Park

Week-Long Itinerary for Zimbabwe

If you have a week to explore Zimbabwe, we suggest the following itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Great Zimbabwe National Monument and explore the city of Masvingo
2 Go on a game drive in Hwange National Park
3 Hike in the Chimanimani Mountains
4 Visit Victoria Falls and do a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River
5 Try fishing or take a boat ride on Lake Kariba
6 Visit Matobo National Park and do a hot air balloon safari
7 Experience the local food and culture in Harare and visit the National Gallery of Zimbabwe

Food and Drink Scene of Zimbabwe

Zimbabwean cuisine is a blend of African and colonial influences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sadza - a staple maize meal served with meat, vegetables, and sauces
  • Mazondo - beef hooves and trotters slow-cooked with tomatoes and onions
  • Kapenta - small freshwater fish fried and served with vegetables
  • Peanut Butter and Spinach Stew - a flavorful vegetarian dish made with peanut butter and spinach
  • Mopani Worms - a local delicacy consisting of caterpillars cooked with onions and tomatoes

Local Beverages

  • Castle Lager - a popular local beer
  • Chibuku - a traditional sorghum beer often sold in cartons
  • Mazoe Orange Juice - a refreshing juice made from local oranges
  • Rooibos Tea - a caffeine-free herbal tea

Where to Stay in Zimbabwe: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Zimbabwe offers a wide range of accommodations for every budget. Here are some options:

  • The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
  • The Cresta Lodge
  • The Bronte Hotel
  • Wild Geese Lodge
  • Batanai Lodge

What to Buy in Zimbabwe: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Zimbabwe is known for its arts and crafts, particularly stone sculptures, baskets, and wood carvings. Here are some other souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Mbira - a traditional Zimbabwean musical instrument
  • Maasai Shuka - a colorful traditional blanket
  • Baobab Oil - a natural oil used for skin and hair care
  • Zambezi Honey - a sweet and delicious honey produced in Zimbabwe

Local Culture and Customs of Zimbabwe

Zimbabweans are friendly and welcoming people who value their culture and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Greetings are important in Zimbabwe, so take the time to say hello and introduce yourself properly.
  • Dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing in public places.
  • Respect local customs, particularly around religious and cultural festivals.
  • In rural areas, it is customary to ask permission before taking photographs of people or their property.

Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe

The best time to visit Zimbabwe is from May to October when the weather is dry and sunny. The country can be very hot during October and November, so it’s best to avoid those months if you are sensitive to heat. The rainy season usually begins in November and ends in April, and during this time some roads may become impassable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zimbabwe

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Zimbabwe:

Do:

  • Try the local dishes and beverages.
  • Respect the wildlife and stay in designated areas.
  • Use insect repellent to avoid insect bites.
  • Negotiate prices when shopping at markets.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of locals without permission.
  • Litter or pollute the environment.
  • Ignore wildlife warnings or safety rules.
  • Hesitate to ask for help or advice if you need it.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is generally a safe country for travelers. However, it’s important to take standard safety precautions, such as keeping your valuables secure, avoiding isolated areas at night, and being aware of your surroundings. It’s also recommended to avoid political demonstrations and public gatherings.

Health in Zimbabwe

Travelers to Zimbabwe should take appropriate health precautions. It’s recommended to get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, yellow fever, and influenza. Malaria is common in Zimbabwe, so it’s important to take anti-malaria medication and use insect repellent when necessary. HIV/AIDS is also prevalent in the country, so it’s important to practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles.

Getting to Zimbabwe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Travelers can reach Zimbabwe by air, land, or sea. Here are some options:

Airports Near Zimbabwe

  • Harare International Airport
  • Victoria Falls International Airport
  • Joshua Nkomo International Airport

Bus Stations Near Zimbabwe

  • Johannesburg Park City Transit Center
  • Pretoria Gautrain Station

Other Options

  • Train from Johannesburg to Bulawayo
  • Private car and driver services

How to Get Around in Zimbabwe

Travelers in Zimbabwe can get around by car, bus, or taxi. It’s recommended to use licensed taxis or car services, as some unlicensed operators may not be reliable or safe. Tour operators also offer guided tours and transportation to popular attractions and destinations.

Where to Go Next from Zimbabwe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Zimbabwe is located in a region with many other exciting travel destinations. Here are some nearby places you could visit:

  • South Africa
  • Zambia
  • Botswana
  • Mozambique

Conclusion

Zimbabwe offers a unique and exciting travel experience for visitors of all interests. From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural beauty, Zimbabwe has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has given you some helpful tips and ideas for your upcoming trip to this wonderful country. Safe travels!

Skyline of Harare, Capital of Zimbabwe Skyline of Harare, Capital of Zimbabwe Lion resting near a termite mound Lion resting near a termite mound Mbira dzavadzimu Mbira dzavadzimu Visa policy of Zimbabwe Visa policy of Zimbabwe Harare International Airport Harare International Airport Minibus stop Minibus stop Elephants crossing Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park Elephants crossing Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park Meat, sadza, greens and sausages Meat, sadza, greens and sausages Bulawayo Bulawayo


    Eastern Highlands
    Lake Kariba-Lower Zambezi
    Mashonaland
    Matabeleland
    Southeastern Zimbabwe