We can all agree that most African countries have so much to offer, right? So much so that it’s impossible to choose the best to visit. However, if you’ve successfully narrowed it down to a few and Zimbabwe made the cut, then you’d need to know the best places to visit in Zimbabwe to make your trip worth the time.
In this blog post, I will show you my top 10 places to visit in Zimbabwe from my experience and experience with other nomads I know. By the way, if you’ve already visited and know some really interesting places to visit, let me know in the comments.
10. Chimanimani Mountains
Chimanimani is a perfect tourist destination for hiking, bird viewing, swimming and other memorable experiences. From taking beautiful pictures near the waterfall to exploring the beaut shaped by mother nature herself, Chimanimani is one of the best places in Zimbabwe that you must see.
The Chimanimani Mountains are located near Mozambique, split between Zimbabwe’s Chimanimani National Park and Mozambique’s Chimanimani National Reserve. Whichever you choose to explore is fine, as both offer quite a rewarding experience.
9. Khami Ruins
The Khami ruins is another fascinating place in Zimbabwe that you ought to visit. It goes hand in hand with the Great Zimbabwe Ruins.
Constructed in the 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site was a popular trading site in the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s also one of the few places left in Zimbabwe that treasure hunters did not destroy.
A tour through the ruins would take you through a sophisticated structure built in ancient Zimbabwe, providing proof of an in-depth understanding of the architecture of ancient times.
8. Hwange National Park
If you’ve been to any African country or know more about African trips, you’d know that a visit to Africa isn’t complete without a proper safari. So, what better place to have that experience in Zimbabwe than the biggest national park, Hwange National Park?
It’s between Bulawayo, the second largest city in Zimbabwe, and Victoria Falls.
Hwange National Park is a perfect place to see the big five and enjoy one of the most amazing safari experiences in Zimbabwe. And considering it’s incredibly close to Victoria Falls, you should park for a fun Zimbabwe experience.
7. Matobo National Park
Matobo National Park is another impressive and the oldest national park in Zimbabwe. Located south of Bulawayo, this national park is home to a series of granite rock formations said to have been formed over 2 billion years ago.
The impressive landscape and beautiful view of nature make it a fantastic destination. A pro to it is that it doubles as a safari experience, too.
6. Chinhoyi Caves
Places like Chinhoyi Caves would make you think wild animals know how to select their natural habitat more than humans do. The wonder hole leading to the sleeping pool is perfect for scuba diving. Its water is crystal clear blue, and the serenity of the environment is just so perfect for exploration.
The natives prefer to call the cave Chirorodziva, which means Pool of the Fallen.
5. Mana Pools National Park
If you think of a place that could most likely be the Garden of Eden in Africa, it has to be the Mana Pools National Park.
This national park features many wildlife, from leopards to crocodiles and gigantic elephants. But as impressive as its wildlife is, the landscape is even more fascinating. The Mana pools are considered channels of the Zambezi River. The area is covered with acacia trees, which serve as shades for the elephant population.
Another thing you’d love about this is that even with its huge concentration of wildlife and beauty, it’s rarely crowded, making the experience even more memorable.
4. Harare
Beyond its natural beauty, Zimbabwe also offers a city-like experience with green plantations and skyscrapers, beautifying the skyline. The city is best explored at night if you’re looking for a leisurely stroll. You can visit the Harare Botanic Garden for one of the most beautiful and relaxing spots, best for picnics and dates. Some other spots you can check out are the National Gallery and the Zimbabwe Museum for a guided tour into their history and exploration of modern art.
One of the most captivating experiences in Harare is a visit to Mbare Market. It’s a bustling hub where you can immerse yourself in local life, finding everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts.
3. Lake Kariba
Nestled between Zimbabwe and Zambia, Lake Kariba is one of the world’s largest man-made lakes and offers a breathtaking escape into nature. The lake’s shimmering waters surround rugged mountains and lush forests, creating a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Visitors to Lake Kariba can engage in various activities, from game viewing and safaris in the Matusadona National Park to fishing for the fierce tiger fish. Boating is a popular pastime, with houseboats providing a unique way to explore the vast lake. Whether watching the spectacular sunsets, spotting wildlife along the shores, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Lake Kariba promises an unforgettable experience.
2. Great Zimbabwe Ruins
The Great Zimbabwe Ruins, located near the modern-day town of Masvingo, are one of Africa’s most remarkable archaeological sites. It’s considered all that’s remaining of a once thriving capital of the kingdom of Zimbabwe. The site is renowned for its impressive stone constructions, including the Great Enclosure and the Conical Tower, which were built without mortar. You can marvel at the craftsmanship of the stone walls, which reach up to 11 meters in height, and explore the complex network of passageways, platforms, and enclosures that tell the story of a sophisticated society.
The Zimbabwe ruins in combination with the Khami Ruins is a perfect combination of what makes a historical trip.
1. Victoria Falls Town
Victoria Falls Town, located on the Zimbabwean side of the world-famous Victoria Falls, is a bustling yet charming place. It serves as the gateway to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The town offers various activities to adrenaline junkies and those seeking a more relaxed experience. The Victoria Falls is known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke That Thunders.” It is a spectacular sight, with vast sheets of water plunging over 100 meters into the Zambezi Gorge below, perfect for white water rafting.
The sight and sound of the falls and the rainforest surrounding them create an awe-inspiring natural spectacle, and if you’re daring enough you could attempt to take a picture swimming in the devil’s pool – a small pool of water just close to the fall.
Beyond the falls, Victoria Falls Town offers a variety of attractions and activities like:
- white-water rafting on the Zambezi River
- bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge
- zip-lining across the gorge.
Alternatively, if you’re looking to relax, then you can take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Believe me when I say it’s spectacular. Taking in the breathtaking scenery and wildlife, at sundown is worth seeing. The town is home to various accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses, as well as vibrant markets and restaurants where you can sample local cuisine.
Conclusion
These are only my top 10 places to visit in Zimbabwe, and as I mentioned earlier, if you have any suggestions I’m open to looking into them. But if not, then you might want to check out some other African countries that you just might love.
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