Zimbabwe
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Zimbabwe!
A country in southern Africa known for its stunning natural beauty, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture. Here are some top attractions and experiences to explore
Natural Wonders
- Victoria Falls: One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, located on the border with Zambia.
- Matobo Hills: A unique rock formation with stunning scenery and wildlife.
- Hwange National Park: One of Africa’s largest game reserves, home to diverse wildlife.
Wildlife and Safaris
- Hwange National Park: Spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) on guided safaris.
- Matobo National Park: Explore the park’s scenic hills and wildlife, including white rhinos and sable antelopes.
- Mana Pools National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering canoeing and walking safaris.
Cultural Experiences
- Great Zimbabwe: Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the country’s rich history.
- Matobo Hills: Visit the gravesite of Cecil John Rhodes and enjoy stunning views.
- Local markets: Experience the vibrant culture and shop for local handicrafts.
Adventure Activities
- Victoria Falls Bridge: Take a thrilling bungee jump or bridge walk.
- White-water rafting: Navigate the Zambezi River’s rapids.
- Safari: Explore Zimbabwe’s national parks and game reserves on guided tours.
Cities and Towns
- Harare: The capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene and historic landmarks.
- Bulawayo: A city with a rich history and cultural attractions.
- Victoria Falls: A popular tourist destination near the iconic waterfall.
Festivals and Events
- Harare International Festival of the Arts: A showcase of music, dance, and theater.
- Victoria Falls Carnival: A celebration of music, food, and culture.
Zimbabwe offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it an exciting destination for travelers.
Tour operators in Zimbabwe
Luxury Tour Operators
- Ker & Downey Africa: Offers tailor-made luxury African safaris with a focus on sustainability, rated 4.9/5.
- Butterfield & Robinson: Provides luxury trips with expert guides, rated 4.9/5.
- Rothschild Safaris: Offers private guided trips and custom itineraries with a focus on luxury, rated 4.9/5.¹ ²
Standard Tour Operators
- All African Trails: Offers group tours, river cruises, and custom itineraries, rated 4.7/5.
- Globus: Provides group tours, private guided trips, and custom itineraries, rated 4.7/5.
- Tauck: Offers group tours, river cruises, and independent packages, rated 4.7/5.
Budget-Friendly Tour Operators
- G Adventures: Offers group tours and independent packages, rated 4.8/5.
- On The Go Tours: Provides group tours, private guided trips, and river cruises, rated 4.9/5.
- Cosmos: Offers value vacations for savvy travelers, rated 4/5.³
Local Specialist Tour Operators
- Siyabona Africa: Offers group tours and private guided trips, rated 4.7/5.
- The Africa Adventure Company: Provides group tours and private guided trips, rated 5/5.
- Aardvark Safaris: Offers group tours, rated 4/5.⁴
Airbnb in Zimbabwe
Mainstream Airlines
- Air Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe’s national carrier, offering domestic and international flights to destinations like Harare, Victoria Falls, Bulawayo, Johannesburg, and London Gatwick.
- Fastjet: An African airline connecting Harare, Victoria Falls, and Bulawayo, with flights to Johannesburg and Kruger National Park in South Africa.
Charter Airlines
- Falcon Air: Offers flights between Kariba and Harare, as well as charter flights to other destinations in Zimbabwe and sub-Saharan Africa.
- Wilderness Air: Run by Wilderness Safaris, offering flights to safari camps in Zimbabwe and southern Africa.
- Grand Air Charters: Provides charter flights to safari camps in Zimbabwe and southern Africa.
- Executive Air: Offers flights to destinations in Zimbabwe and southern Africa, including safari camps.
- Halsteds Aviation: Provides charter flights to destinations in Zimbabwe and sub-Saharan Africa, including safari camps.
- Mack Air: Offers flights to destinations in Zimbabwe and Botswana, including safari camps.
- Safari Logistics Service: Run by African Bush Camps, offering flights to Victoria Falls, Hwange, Bumi Hills/Matusadona, Somalisa Hwange, and Mana Pools.
Buses in Zimbabwe
Bus Companies in Zimbabwe
- City Link Coaches: One of the more established coach/bus companies in Zimbabwe, connecting Harare, Bulawayo, Victoria Falls, Kadoma, Kwekwe, Gweru, and Chinhoyi.
- Eagle Liner Zimbabwe: Connects Harare, Bulawayo, Kadoma, Kwe Kwe, and Gweru.
- Extracity Buses: Connects Harare, Gweru, Bulawayo, Hwange, and Victoria Falls, with scheduled departure times and various payment options.
- Intercape: Offers international coach services between Zimbabwe and South Africa, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia.
- Cross Border Xpress: Provides transport services between Zimbabwe and South Africa, with routes to Cape Town, Harare, Bulawayo, and Mutare.
- Shumba Shuttle: Offers shuttle services in Zimbabwe, particularly in Victoria Falls and Bulawayo/Matobo area.
Popular Bus Routes
- Harare to Bulawayo: Average price $97-$137, duration 4 hours
- Harare to Johannesburg: Average price $57-$81, duration 20 hours
- Harare to Pretoria: Average price $56-$80, duration 17 hours 50 minutes
- Masvingo to Harare: Average price $87-$123, duration 4 hours
- Harare to Beitbridge: Average price $56-$80, duration 11 hours
Bus Services and Amenities
- Scheduled Departures: Many bus companies offer scheduled departures, with some allowing check-in 30 minutes prior to departure.
- Payment Options: Various payment methods are accepted, including cash, credit/debit cards, Ecocash, Innbucks, EFT, ZIPIT, and bank transfers.
- Amenities: Some buses have toilet facilities, rest stops every 3 hours, and charging points near seats. However, Wi-Fi is not typically available.
Boats in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe offers a variety of boats for sale and rental, catering to different needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available:
Boats for Sale
- Fishing Boats: Pirinha Fisherman ($8,000), Interceptor ($22,000), and Piranha Sports with Yamaha ($3,500) are some options available in Harare.
- Speed Boats: SuperCat Wit BHTS 430 Hull Mercury ($3,500) and Falcon ($23,000) can be found in Harare.
- Canoes: A canoe is available for $600 in Chinhoyi.
- Other Options: Osprey ($15,500 and $8,500), Splash boat ($3,500), and Yamaha F130 ($10,500) are also available.
Boat Rentals and Tours
- Boat Tours: Explore the Zambezi River with guided tours, spotting wildlife like crocodiles, hippos, and elephants.
- Speed Boat Tours: Experience adrenaline-pumping rides on the Zambezi River, with options like Ultimate Jet Boats and Adrenaline Jet Boat Safari.
- Sunset Cruises: Enjoy relaxing cruises with breathtaking views, drinks, and snacks. Some popular options include Pure Africa Exclusive Dinner Cruise and Savannah Adventures.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore Zimbabwe’s waterways with guided kayaking and canoeing tours.
Boat Sales and Services
- Daws Plant & Machinery Zimbabwe: Offers new and used boats, fishing boats, and canoes for sale, as well as repair services.
- TopBoats and iNautia: Online platforms featuring boats for sale in Zimbabwe, with filters for location, price, and type.
Guides in tourism in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe offers various tour guides and guides-in-training programs to enhance your travel experience. Here are some options to consider:
Local Guides
- Willard N.: Offers a full-day tour of the Great Zimbabwe Monument, exploring ancient history and empire ruins (approximately $745 USD for up to 3 people).
- Sisasenkosi M.: Provides a full-day safari experience in Chobe National Park (approximately $9 USD for up to 10 people).
- Fungayi N.: Offers a 3-hour tour of Victoria Falls, including rock art, scenery, and historical shrines (approximately $14 USD for up to 10 people).
- Tshavani D.: Leads a half-day tour of Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site (price not specified).
Tour Operators
- ToursByLocals: Offers customized tours with local guides, including city tours, safaris, and cultural experiences.
- Goway: Provides tailor-made travel experiences in Zimbabwe, including guided tours and excursions.
Types of Tours
- Safari Tours: Explore national parks like Hwange, Matobo, and Mana Pools with experienced guides.
- Cultural Tours: Visit local villages, art galleries, and historical sites to learn about Zimbabwean culture.
- Adventure Tours: Enjoy activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and helicopter tours in Victoria Falls.
- City Tours: Discover Harare’s unity square, museum, and botanical gardens with knowledgeable guides.
Benefits of Local Guides
- Insider Knowledge: Local guides provide unique insights into Zimbabwe’s history, culture, and wildlife.
- Personalized Experience: Customized tours cater to your interests and preferences.
- Authentic Interactions: Engage with local communities and experience Zimbabwean hospitality.
Tourism industry in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is thriving, with a significant increase in international arrivals and tourism receipts. Here’s a snapshot of the industry’s performance:
Key Statistics
- International Arrivals: 751,483 visitors in the first half of 2024, representing a 27% increase from 2023.
- Tourism Receipts: $493 million in the first half of 2024, up 24% from $398 million in 2023.
- Hotel Occupancy Rates: 44% in 2024, driven by international visitors to Victoria Falls and business tourism in Harare, Kariba, and Hwange.
- Contribution to GDP: The tourism sector contributes around 5.7% to Zimbabwe’s GDP.
Growth Drivers
- Global Tourism Recovery: The global tourism recovery has spurred a surge in travel.
- Improved Transportation Infrastructure: Enhanced accessibility has contributed to the increase in tourist arrivals.
- Effective Marketing Efforts: The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority’s promotional efforts have positioned the country as a unique destination.
Popular Destinations
- Victoria Falls: A major attraction for international visitors.
- Hwange National Park: Known for its wildlife and safari experiences.
- Great Zimbabwe National Monument: A cultural and historical site.
- Lake Kariba: A popular spot for water activities.
Government Initiatives
- Tourism Promotion: The government has embarked on global promotional efforts, including hosting roadshows and participating in the World Travel Market in London.
- Infrastructure Development: Upgrades to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and Victoria Falls International Airport have boosted connectivity.
- Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo: A biennial event promoting Zimbabwe’s tourism industry.
Beaches in Zimbabwe
Top National Parks in Zimbabwe
- Binga Sand Beach: A hidden gem along Lake Kariba, offering serene landscapes, azure waters, and golden sands. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, and beach volleyball. The local culture is a highlight, with opportunities to learn about traditional music, dance, and crafts.
- Chete Sandy Beaches: Another tranquil oasis along Zimbabwe’s lake shoreline, perfect for relaxation and water activities. The beach has limited amenities, so plan accordingly.
- Sandy Beaches in Sibalia: A picturesque destination with golden sands, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and peaceful walks along the shoreline.
- Parc Recreatif De Lake Chivero: A serene destination with natural beauty, offering boating, picnicking, bird watching, fishing, and guided safaris within the wildlife sanctuary.
- Activities and Experiences
Water Sports: Enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and beach volleyball at these lake beaches. - Cultural Experiences: Learn about local traditions, music, and crafts at Binga Sand Beach.
- Wildlife Viewing: Explore nearby sanctuaries and national parks, like Chizarira National Park and Sebungwe Narrows Sanctuary.
- Sunset Views: Witness breathtaking sunsets over Lake Kariba, perfect for romantic dinners or relaxation.
- Tips and Essentials
Getting There: Reach Binga Sand Beach by car or public transportation, with options for local taxis and bicycle rentals. - Amenities: Be prepared for limited amenities at these beaches, including no lifeguards or bathroom access.
- Local Tips: Visit early morning or late afternoon for best views and cooler temperatures. Don’t forget sunscreen and explore local markets for unique crafts and souvenirs.
Touristic sites in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe offers a diverse range of touristic sites, showcasing its natural beauty, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some top attractions to explore:
National Parks
- Hwange National Park: Known for its massive herds of elephants, cheetahs, lions, and other wildlife, making it one of Africa’s finest wildlife reserves.
- Matobo National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring granite rock formations, ancient San rock art, and home to endangered black and white rhinos.
- Gonarezhou National Park: Offers rustic bush camps and showcases majestic mopane woods, elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
- Mana Pools National Park: A protected wildlife preserve and UNESCO World Heritage site with excellent game-viewing opportunities, water sports, and birdwatching.
Waterfalls and Lakes
- Victoria Falls: One of the world’s largest waterfalls, surrounded by lush rainforests and offering breathtaking views.
- Mtarazi Falls: Africa’s second-tallest waterfall, located in Nyanga National Park.
- Lake Kariba: A serene lake offering sunset cruises, fishing, and water sports.
- Lake Chivero Recreational Park: Features giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and other wildlife.
Wildlife Reserves and Sanctuaries
- Imire: Rhino & Wildlife Conservation: A conservation area with a humbling experience of wildlife up close.
- Thetford Game Reserve: Offers a 5-star experience with diverse wildlife.
- Twala Trust Animal Sanctuary: An amazing animal sanctuary for volunteering opportunities.
- Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage and Research Centre: Helps with animal conservation and education.
Cultural and Historical Sites
- Great Zimbabwe National Monument: Features ancient ruins and historical significance.
- Khami Ruins: A historical site with ancient stone structures.
- Bulawayo: Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, with attractions like the Natural History Museum and Hillside Dams Conservancy.
- Matobo Hills: Features ancient San rock art and cultural significance.
National Parks in Zimbabwe
National Parks in Zimbabwe Zimbabwe is home to numerous national parks, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and experiences. Here are some of the top national parks to visit:
Top National Parks in Zimbabwe
- Hwange National Park: The largest national park in Zimbabwe, known for its massive herds of elephants, cheetahs, lions, and other wildlife. It’s a great spot for game viewing, especially during the dry season from August to October.
- Matobo National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring unique rock formations, ancient San rock art, and a sanctuary for black and white rhinos. It’s also home to leopards, giraffes, and zebras.
- Mana Pools National Park: A wildlife-rich paradise with populations of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. It’s one of the best walking safari destinations in Africa and offers canoeing and game viewing opportunities.
- Gonarezhou National Park: The second-largest national park in Zimbabwe, ideal for remote travel and spotting rare king cheetahs, giraffes, and elephants. It is part of the Great Limpopo Tran frontier Park, promoting conservation across Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique.
- Victoria Falls National Park: Home to the world’s largest waterfall, offering breathtaking views and adventure activities like white-water rafting and bungee jumping.
- Chimanimani Mountains National Park: A gem in the Eastern Highlands, featuring rolling hills, mountain peaks, natural pools, and waterfalls. Perfect for hiking, swimming, and enjoying scenic views.
- Matusadona National Park: Located on the shores of Lake Kariba, offering game drives, hiking, and birdwatching opportunities. A great spot for spotting wildlife like elephants, lions, and leopards.
- Chizarira National Park: A remote game park with stunning views of the Zambezi Valley, home to leopards, lions, and elephants. Known for its rugged terrain and diverse wildlife.
- Umfurudzi Park: A scenic park with diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and zebras. A great spot for game viewing and relaxation.
- Nyanga National Park: Located in the Eastern Highlands, featuring rolling hills, mountain peaks, and scenic views. Ideal for hiking, camping, and enjoying nature.
Zimbabwe Cultural Sites
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- The Great Zimbabwe: A medieval city built between the 11th and 15th centuries, featuring impressive stone structures without mortar. It symbolizes the country’s heritage and the origin of its name, “Zimbabwe,” meaning “houses of stone” in the Shona language.
- Khami Ruins: The capital of the Torwa dynasty in the 15th century, known for its unique architecture, dry stone walls with chevron patterns, and proximity to the Khami River. This site reflects the transition from stone masonry techniques to newer methods.
- Matobo Hills: A site with spiritual significance, featuring granite boulders, rocks, and ancient cave paintings dating back 13,000 years. The hills serve as a focal point for the local community, with shrines and sacred places tied to traditional activities.
Other Cultural Sites
- Dzimbabwe Cultural Centre: A center dedicated to preserving Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage, showcasing artifacts like pottery, carvings, and traditional clothing. It hosts cultural events throughout the year.
- Chiremba Balancing Rocks: A geological wonder near Harare, featuring natural rock formations sculpted by erosion. The site offers walking trails and guided tours.
- Victoria Falls: While renowned as a natural wonder, Victoria Falls holds deep cultural significance, tied to local myths, legends, and sacred traditions.
- Historical Significance
These cultural sites offer insights into Zimbabwe’s ancient civilizations, trade networks, and colonial history. Visitors can explore the ruins, rock art, and traditional activities to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s past and present.
Hotels in Zimbabwe
Here are some top-rated hotels in Zimbabwe:
Top Hotels in Harare
- Meikles Hotel: 8.6/10, offering luxurious accommodations and excellent service
- New Ambassador Hotel: 6.9/10, providing comfortable rooms and a convenient location
- The Palace Guest House: 6.3/10, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere
- N1 Hotel Samora Machel Harare: 8.0/10, featuring modern amenities and a central location
- Rainbow Towers Hotel And Conference Centre: 7.4/10, ideal for conferences and leisure stays
Top Hotels in Victoria Falls
- The Victoria Falls Hotel: 8.5/10, offering stunning views and luxurious accommodations
- Elephant Hills Resort: 8.3/10, featuring comfortable rooms and scenic views
- Azambezi River Lodge: 8.6/10, providing a serene and natural atmosphere
- Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel: 7.7/10, offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location
- The Victoria Falls Deluxe Suites: 7.9/10, featuring spacious suites and modern amenities
Budget-Friendly Options
- Shoestrings Backpackers Lodge Vic Falls: $13/night, offering dorms and private rooms
- Victoria Falls Backpackers Lodge: $18/night, featuring cozy rooms and a social atmosphere
- Royal Guest House: $99/night (AED), providing simple yet comfortable rooms
Price Ranges
- 3-star hotels: ₹2,817 – ₹5,036 (Harare and Victoria Falls)
- 4-star hotels: ₹6,402 – ₹9,304 (Harare and Victoria Falls)
- Luxury hotels: ₹23,816 – ₹45,327+ (per night)
