Great Zimbabwe Travel Guide

Discover the beauty and charm of Great Zimbabwe with this ultimate travel guide featuring must-visit attractions, best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Great Zimbabwe: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Are you looking for a unique travel destination that will take you back in time and immerse you in rich culture and history? Look no further than Great Zimbabwe, the ancient city located in southeastern Zimbabwe. Here, you’ll be able to explore fascinating ruins, natural wonders, and immerse yourself into the local customs and cuisine. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan the perfect adventure in Great Zimbabwe.

Introduction to Great Zimbabwe

Great Zimbabwe is one of the most important historical sites in Africa, dating back to the 11th century. The term “Zimbabwe” comes from the Shona language and means “house of stones.” The ruins are composed of three main areas: the Hill Complex, the Great Enclosure, and the Valley Complex. The city was once the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe, which dominated much of the southern portion of the continent.

Today, Great Zimbabwe is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its incredible stone structures and learn about its storied past.

List of Places to Visit in Great Zimbabwe

If you’re planning a trip to Great Zimbabwe, here are the must-visit places to add to your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Hill Complex: The largest and most impressive of the ruins, featuring a towering stone structure.
  • The Great Enclosure: A massive wall surrounding a vast interior space that was believed to have been used for important ceremonies.
  • The Valley Complex: A sprawling network of walls and structures that once housed a large population.
  • The Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences: Featuring artifacts and exhibits that chronicle the history of the site and the people who once lived there.
  • The Ethnography Museum: A showcase of Shona culture and traditions.

Natural Attractions of Great Zimbabwe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Lake Mutirikwi Recreational Park: A popular spot for fishing, boating, and other water activities.
  • The Chimanimani National Park: A stunning natural park with plenty of hiking trails, waterfalls, and rare wildlife.
  • The Matobo Hills National Park: Home to impressive rock formations and one of the largest populations of black eagles in the world.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Great Zimbabwe

For adventure enthusiasts, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails around Great Zimbabwe that present a chance to explore the ruins and surrounding areas in more depth.

  • Gwindingwi Circuit: A moderate trail that takes you through the ruins of Great Zimbabwe and along the Chibuwe River.
  • The View of the World: A challenging but rewarding hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
  • The Nyangombe Falls Trail: A scenic hike through the breathtaking Chimanimani Mountains to a stunning waterfall.

Best Things to Do in Great Zimbabwe: Activities and Tours

  • Take a guided tour of the ancient ruins to learn about the fascinating history of the city.
  • Visit the nearby National Parks to experience vast landscapes and unique wildlife
  • Go on a safari and see the “Big Five” in action.
  • Explore the local markets and shops to pick up unique souvenirs and locally made goods.
  • Taste the local cuisine and sample traditional dishes such as Sadza and Mazondo.

Week-Long Itinerary for Great Zimbabwe

Whether you’re a history buff or an adventure seeker, there is plenty to do and see in Great Zimbabwe. Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to this incredible destination.

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Hill Complex and Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences
Day 2 Visit the Great Enclosure in the morning, then hike the Gwindingwi Circuit in the afternoon
Day 3 Take a day trip to Lake Mutirikwi Recreational Park for boating and fishing activities.
Day 4 Go on a safari at Chizarira National Park to see the “Big Five”
Day 5 Explore local markets and taste local cuisine
Day 6 Hike the Nyangombe Falls Trail in the Chimanimani Mountains
Day 7 Visit the Matobo Hills National Park for stunning landscapes and rock formations

Food and Drink Scene of Great Zimbabwe

No journey to Great Zimbabwe is complete without trying the diverse and flavorful cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to check out.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sadza: A staple grain dish made from cornmeal or maize.
  • Mazondo: Braised beef hooves in thick gravy
  • Kapenta: Small freshwater fish, often fried or grilled

Local Beverages

  • Chibuku: A traditional beer made from maize or sorghum.
  • Mazoe: A sweet, non-alcoholic drink made from crushed fruit.

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

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations, budget-friendly hostels, or cozy guesthouses, Great Zimbabwe has options for every type of traveler. Here are some recommended places to stay.

  • The Great Zimbabwe Hotel: A luxurious hotel with top-notch amenities and stunning views.
  • The Ancient City Lodge: A budget-friendly lodge that offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to the ruins.
  • The Lodge at Senuko: A cozy guesthouse situated in a tranquil garden setting, perfect for relaxation.

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

  • Beautiful Hand-Crafted Carvings: Unique pieces of art and sculpture made from locally sourced materials such as wood or stone.
  • Traditional Textiles: Vibrant fabrics and handwoven textiles made by local artisans.
  • Jewelry: Intricately designed pieces of jewelry made from precious metals and gems.

Local Culture and Customs of Great Zimbabwe

The local culture in Great Zimbabwe is deeply rooted in the Shona people, who have lived in the region for centuries. Visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect local customs and traditions, such as greeting people accordingly, showing respect to elders, and dressing appropriately for certain events.

Best Time to Visit Great Zimbabwe

The best time to visit Great Zimbabwe is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is mild, and the humidity is low, making it perfect for exploring the ruins and taking part in outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Great Zimbabwe

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious places.
  • Learn a few phrases in the local language.

Don’t:

  • Touch or climb on the ruins.
  • Engage in unwanted physical contact.
  • Disrespect the local culture or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Great Zimbabwe

Overall, Great Zimbabwe is a safe destination for travelers. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions, such as keeping valuable items secure and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Great Zimbabwe

All visitors are encouraged to take basic health precautions, such as drinking bottled water and using insect repellent. It is also recommended to have up-to-date vaccinations if traveling to more remote areas of the country.

Getting to Great Zimbabwe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Great Zimbabwe can be reached via several transportation options, including flights, buses, and car rentals.

Airports Near Great Zimbabwe

  • Harare International Airport
  • Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport

Bus Stations Near Great Zimbabwe

  • Mutare Bus Station
  • Masvingo Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car Rental Services

How to Get Around in Great Zimbabwe

Taxis and car rentals are available for visitors to explore the area. However, it is recommended to book tours and day trips in advance to ensure that you get the most out of your visit.

Where to Go Next from Great Zimbabwe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Hwange National Park
  • Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe
  • The Eastern Highlands

Conclusion

Great Zimbabwe is a must-visit travel destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and adventure. With its impressive ruins, stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural experiences, it’s a place that will leave a lasting impression on any visitor. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan the perfect trip to Great Zimbabwe and enjoy an unforgettable experience.