Few African destinations can compete with Victoria Falls for sheer visual drama. At its full, roaring peak, the ‘Smoke that Thunders' is one of the continent's most mesmerizing sights, leaving visitors lightly soaked and absolutely exhilarated at the same time. The falls are on the mighty Zambezi river, which means you can see them from either Zambia or Zimbabwe. Arguably, the best on-foot views are from Zimbabwe’s side - so lovely, in fact, that explorer David Livingstone declared they must have been gazed on by angels.

But while these views have won it international fame, Zimbabwe is so much more than Victoria Falls: it is one of Southern Africa’s most rewarding big game safari destinations.

Zimbabwe is an authentic, rugged destination that we especially recommend to travelers returning to Africa for an off-the-beaten track experience. In addition to delivering superb game viewing in the care of some of the most respected guides in the business, a Zimbabwe vacation offers classic tented camps that are comfortable without being ostentatious, fresh, wholesome cuisine, and one of the warmest welcomes in the world wherever you go.

Zimbabwe’s flagship reserve is Hwange National Park, a short drive from Victoria Falls and home to a full cast of your favorite mammals, from lions, leopards and hyenas to big herds of elephant and buffalo, elegant antelope, giraffe and zebra. Add to these characters the wildlife of the Zambezi River – hippos, crocodiles and shy water buck and you're on safari in Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, where activities include game drives, canoe adventures and walking safaris.

Zimbabwe’s less well-known destinations offer some unique experiences that make them well worth the effort of getting there. Fly in to Matusadona National Park, set on the shores of Lake Kariba, a haven for rhinos and elephants and home to a thriving lion population. The far flung wilderness of neighboring Gonarezhou National Park and Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve is hard to beat. Its remote setting makes this fly-in destination romantically adventurous and immensely rewarding, featuring big-tusker elephants, all the big cats and nearly 400 bird species. You may not see much wildlife at Matobo National Park, but it's a lovely reserve of tumbled rocks sheltering ancient San (Bushman) paintings, ideal for short hikes and comfortable walks.

Top places to visit:

Victoria Falls - adventure activities, safaris & iconic scenery
Hwange National Park - classic game viewing, walking safaris & bird watching
Mana Pools National Park - beautiful wilderness, superb game viewing & walking safaris
Matusadona National Park – lions & elephants, boating & fishing
Matobo National Park – lovely scenery & ancient rock art
Gonarezhou National Park and the adjoining Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve – wild, big game & birding

Travel Experiences:

Zimbabwe offers a diverse range of travel experiences that cater to various interests. Here are some notable travel experiences in Zimbabwe:

1. Wildlife Safaris: Zimbabwe is renowned for its exceptional wildlife and national parks, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, and Matobo National Park are popular choices for game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching.
2. Victoria Falls: One of the most famous natural wonders in the world, Victoria Falls is a must-visit destination in Zimbabwe. You can witness the awe-inspiring sight of the mighty Zambezi River cascading over the cliffs, creating a spectacular display of water and mist. Activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and scenic helicopter rides are available.
3. Adventure Sports: Zimbabwe offers numerous thrilling adventure activities. In addition to white-water rafting at Victoria Falls, you can go canoeing or kayaking on the Zambezi River, embark on a multi-day trekking expedition in the Eastern Highlands, or indulge in zip-lining and abseiling in the beautiful landscapes.
4. Great Zimbabwe Ruins: For history and archaeology enthusiasts, the Great Zimbabwe Ruins are a fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site. These ancient stone structures are remnants of a medieval city and provide insight into the country's rich past and the Shona civilization.
5. Cultural Encounters: Zimbabwe is home to several vibrant cultures, and interacting with local communities can be a rewarding experience. You can visit traditional villages, attend cultural festivals, participate in traditional ceremonies, and engage with artisans to learn about the customs, traditions, and arts of Zimbabwe's diverse ethnic groups.
6. Walking and Hiking: The country's diverse landscapes offer excellent opportunities for walking and hiking enthusiasts. The Eastern Highlands, including Nyanga National Park and Chimanimani National Park, boast beautiful trails with breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna.
7. Houseboating on Lake Kariba: Lake Kariba is a vast man-made lake offering opportunities for houseboating adventures. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the lake, go fishing, spot wildlife along the shores, and soak in the tranquility of this picturesque water body.