Zimbabwe Travel Guide
Discover Why You Should Visit Zimbabwe
Why Visit Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe is a land of incredible natural wonders, rich wildlife, and deep cultural heritage. Known for the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls and expansive national parks, Zimbabwe offers diverse experiences for adventurers, nature lovers, and cultural travelers.
Despite its challenges, Zimbabwe remains one of the most rewarding and welcoming destinations in Southern Africa, with breathtaking landscapes and friendly people.
Ideal for: Safari enthusiasts, waterfall chasers, history lovers, and photographers.
Must-Know Facts
Capital/Major City: Harare
Language(s): English (official), Shona, Ndebele
Currency: Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL), but US dollars widely used
Best Time to Visit: May to October (dry season and peak for safaris)
Fun Fact: Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and is locally known as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ (The Smoke That Thunders).
Top Things to Do
Visit Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls
Go on safari in Hwange National Park, home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations
Explore the Great Zimbabwe ruins, the ancient stone city from which the country gets its name
Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River
Discover Matobo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique rock formations and cave art
Local Culture & Lifestyle
Zimbabwe has a rich cultural tapestry woven from the Shona and Ndebele traditions, with music, dance, and spiritual beliefs playing a significant role in daily life.
Mbira (thumb piano) music and traditional dances are often performed during ceremonies and festivals.
Community and family life are central to Zimbabwean society, and visitors are often welcomed with warmth and generosity.
Food & Drink Highlights
Street Food: Sadza (maize meal), roasted peanuts, grilled meats, maputi (popped maize)
Restaurants: Victoria 22 (Harare), The Boma Dinner & Drum Show (Victoria Falls), Amanzi Restaurant
Drinks: Maheu (fermented maize drink), Zambezi Lager, fresh mango or guava juice
Desserts: Sweet potato pudding, peanut brittle, traditional cakes
Main Dish & Culinary Symbols
Signature Dish: Sadza served with meat stew, vegetables, and peanut butter sauce
Common Ingredients: Maize, beef, goat, beans, leafy greens, tomatoes, groundnuts
Culinary Culture: Meals are shared, often eaten with hands, and are an important social activity among families and guests
Symbols & Icons of the Area
Natural Icons: Victoria Falls, Zambezi River, Matobo Hills, Eastern Highlands
Cultural Icons: Great Zimbabwe ruins, mbira instrument, batik fabrics, stone carvings
Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path
Eastern Highlands for cool climates, hiking, and waterfalls
Chinhoyi Caves, a limestone and cobalt-blue pool site with mythological significance
Gonarezhou National Park, a rugged and remote wilderness area rich in biodiversity
Shopping & Souvenirs
What to Buy: Soapstone sculptures, wooden crafts, woven baskets, beadwork, hand-painted textiles
Where to Shop: Avondale Market (Harare), Elephant’s Walk Shopping Village (Victoria Falls), roadside artisan markets
Getting Around
Public Transport: Minibuses and shared taxis are common but informal
Car Rentals: Ideal for safari routes and national parks, 4x4s recommended for remote areas
Tip: Domestic flights connect Harare, Victoria Falls, Bulawayo, and major safari destinations
Walkability: High in town centers and tourist zones
Travel Tips
US dollars are widely accepted; carry small denominations as change may be limited
Respect local customs and avoid political discussions or photography in sensitive areas
Be mindful of park regulations during safaris and guided hikes
Tap water is not always safe to drink; opt for bottled or purified water
Where to Stay
Budget: Backpackers in Victoria Falls and guesthouses in Harare or Bulawayo
Mid-range: Cresta Hotels, Phezulu Lodge, Shearwater Explorers Village
Luxury: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Singita Pamushana Lodge, Matetsi River Lodge
Unique: Safari camps, eco-lodges, and riverside retreats near national parks
Sample 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Victoria Falls, take a guided tour of the falls and sunset cruise on the Zambezi River
Day 2: Full-day safari in Hwange National Park, overnight at a safari lodge
Day 3: Visit local craft markets and explore Victoria Falls town
Day 4: Travel to Matobo Hills or extend trip to Great Zimbabwe ruins for cultural exploration
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