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Things to Do in Zimbabwe

Activities To Do in Zimbabwe

Explore The Victoria Falls, Visit The Zambezi River, See Great Zimbabwe Ruins, Explore Lake Kariba, Visit Chinhoyi Caves National Park and many more

Are you hunting down the best things to do in Zimbabwe that can fuel your wanderlust and offer you the best experience in a lifetime? Whether your idea of a heart-pumping adventure is jumping out of a plane or enjoying a jungle safari, or watching the dramatic fountains gush five hundred feet in the air, anything is possible in Zimbabwe. You can explore the Victoria Falls, renowned for its milky white water and breathtaking landscapes.

If you wish to get close to flora and fauna, you can enjoy a jungle safari at Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park. One of the best activities to do in Zimbabwe with your kids is enjoying thrilling rides at Longcheng Amusement Park. You can also enjoy a picnic at Domboshava Hills, renowned for its geological formations, flowing streams, pools, and wooded vegetation. If you're looking for a sun-kissed mini-vacation, you should head to Lake Kariba, which is a nature's wonderland.

There are also some of the most romantic things to do in Zimbabwe at night, like dancing endlessly with your partner at the hippest bars and clubs and enjoying a dinner date at the rooftop restaurants. So satisfy your wanderlust by trying out the rip-roaring activities in Zimbabwe.
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Victoria Falls
On the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls is one of the eminent Zimbabwe tourist places. Cascading from a height of 354 feet, it is one of the largest waterfalls in the world and is home to many unique species of plants and animals.

In 1855, it was 1st spotted by David Livingstone, the Scottish missionary and explorer. Thereafter, he named the Victoria Falls in honour of Queen Victoria. In Sotho Language, it is known as Mosi-oa-Tunya which stands for "The Smoke That Thunders". In 1989,  Victoria Falls was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Location: Mosi-o-tunya Road, Livingstone, Zambia

Timing: 6 AM -6 PM
Matobo National Park
Being the oldest National Park, Matobo National Park is one of the ideal places to visit in Zimbabwe. It was established in 1926 and houses numerous varieties of flora and fauna. Species like White Rhinos, Impala, Antelopes, Black Eagles, and Leopards reside inside the premises.

It takes 2- 3 hours to explore the entire Matobo National Park. One can also camp inside the Matobo National Park and indulge in activities like  Hiking, Climbing, Fishing, Boating, Bird Watching, and Horse-riding. The ideal time to visit the National Park is between July-October i.e. during the dry season.

Location: Matopos Road, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Timing: 9 AM- 2 PM
Nyanga National Park
In the north of Eastern Highlands, Nyanga National Park is one of the oldest Zimbabwe tourist places. Its landscape consists of rhythmic rivers and rolling hills.Mount Nyangani which is  the highest point of Zimbabwe lies inside the National Park.On the other hand, Mutarazi Falls which is the highest waterfall of Zimbabwe cascades down in full glory.Nyanga National Park is home to various species.

Wildlife like Lion, Leopard, Blue Duiker, Samango Monkeys and Hyaena can be spotted inside the protected area. One can also camp inside the Nyanga National Park and indulge in thrilling activities like  Hiking, Fishing, Boating, and Swimming.

Location: Sanyatwe, Zimbabwe

Timing: 9 AM- 2 PM
Hwange National Park
Lying along the threshold of the Kalahari Desert, Hwange National Park is one of the top-notch places in Zimbabwe. It was established in 1928 as Wankie Game Reserve. Hwange is one of the largest natural reserves in Zimbabwe and is home to 100 mammals and 400 bird species and the major species include Cape Wild Dogs, Spotted Hyena, Elephants, African Leopard, and Cheetah.

Especially, visitors will be able to spot numerous Elephants and their population is ever-increasing. The National Park also houses numerous birds like Yellow-billed Kite, Martial, Eagle, Kori Bustard, Cape Griffon and African Hobby. One can also camp inside the Hwange National Park.

Location: Hwange National Park Zimbabwe

Timing: 9 AM- 3 PM
Lake Mutirikwi National Park
In southeastern Zimbabwe, Lake Mutirikwi National Park is one of the recreational places to visit in Zimbabwe. Originally, it was known as  Kyle National Park. It remains open to the visitors 24*7. Sprawled over 41760.809 acres, Mutirikwi National Park is home to species like White Rhinos, Zebras, Giraffes, Leopards, Buffaloes,  Hippos, Elands and Ostriches.

Rarer animals include Antbear, Bushbuck, Sable, Bushpig, and Steenbok. Also, there are Camping Sites and Lodges for staying overnight. One can also indulge in activities like Fishing & Boating.

Location: Zimbabwe

Timing: 9 AM- 3 PM
Mana Pools National Park
In the northern part of Zimbabwe,  Mana Pools National Park is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spread over an area of 2196 sq kilometres, it is one of the charming Zimbabwe tourist places. It is also listed among notable natural ecological areas.

A true blend of wilderness and beauty, Mana Pools National Park houses mammals, birds, and aquatic wildlife like- Hippopotami, Crocodiles, Zebra, Elephant,Cape Buffalo, Lion, Cheetah, Cape Wild Dog,  Leopard and the Brown Hyena. Due to the presence of many water bodies, Canoe Safaris are considered the best method to explore the region. The ideal time to visit Mana Pools National Park is between June to October i.e. during the dry season.

Location: Zimbabwe

Timing: 9 AM- 3 PM
Matusadona National Park
On the southern shore of Lake Kariba, Matusadona National Park is one of the prominent places in Zimbabwe.  In 1975, it was declared a National Park on lines of Parks & Wildlife Act of Rhodesia. It covers an area of 540 miles and is home to a variety of flora and fauna like Lion,  Elephant, Buffalo, Waterbuck and Impala.

Matusadona National Park also has a compelling number of bird species. There was a time when several Black Rhinos used to reside here but rampant poaching eliminated their population. However, efforts are made to re-instill the indigenous wildlife to sustainable tourism.

Location: Zimbabwe

Timing: 9 AM- 3 PM
Gonarezhou National Park
In south-eastern Zimbabwe, Gonarezhou National Park is located in the Masvingo Province. Enveloping an area of 1950.974 square miles, Gonarezhou National Park is the 2nd largest National Park of Zimbabwe. Besides, it is also one of the faraway places to visit in Zimbabwe.

Owing to its remoteness, it has been left untouched by the tourists. In 1936, it was declared as a Protected Area and was given the title of a National Park in 1975. Gonarezhou National Park houses species like endangered Cape Wild Dog,   Elephant,  Zebra, Wildebeest, Black and WhiteRhinoceros, Lion, Leopard,Giraffe, Hippopotamus, Cape Buffalo, Cheetah, and Hyena.

Location: Zimbabwe

Timing: 9 AM- 3 PM
Lake Kariba
Offering panoramic vistas and mind-blowing sunsets, Lake Kariba is an unexplored gem. It is one of the underrated Zimbabwe tourist places. Interestingly, Lake Kariba is also the largest man-made reservoir in the world. Due to its ecology, it supports a large number of fish species like Kapenta and Tigerfish.

As a result, Commercial Fishery contributes to sustainable revenue. Other aquatic animals which inhabit the lake are Nile Crocodiles and Hippopotami. Wildlife like Elephants,  Leopard,  Lion, Cheetah and Buffalo also are frequent visitors along the shoreline.

Timing: 9 AM- 3 PM
Great Zimbabwe National Monument
A reputable UNESCO World Heritage Site in the southern part of the country, Great Zimbabwe National Monument is one of the unmissable places in Zimbabwe.   The Stone Works which dates back to the 11th - 15th centuries are truly impressive.

The ruins are still in a good state and preserved quite well. The historical site is categorized into 3 sections i.e. Hill Complex, Valley Ruins and the Great Enclosure. The Hill Complex used to be the religious centre of the city.  To reach the top of the Hill Complex, one has to undergo a 20-25 minutes hiking session.

Location: Masvingo, Zimbabwe

Timing: 9 AM- 5 PM
Umfurudzi Park

Umfurudzi Park is one of the most sought-after national parks in Zimbabwe. It is spread over an area of 76000 hectares which is equivalent to almost 760 square meters. This impeccable natural beauty and biodiversity park were brought into being in the year 1981 and it happens to be one of the very first parks that was formed under free Zimbabwe. 

Nesbitt Castle
Located in the leafy suburbs of Bulawayo, it is a boutique hotel as well as wedding venue that is famed for its upscale offering. You will get to relish top class hospitality and super comfortable modern amenities. The warmth and graciousness of this place will definitely make you its fan.

The age old architectural style of this place will definitely take you back in the timelines. The most interesting part of this place is its terraced views and secluded surroundings by the side of the pond. You will get to notice medieval crenelations, granite ramparts, and turrets.

Location: 6 Percy Avenue, Hillside, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

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Zimbabwe Things To Do FAQs

Which are the best things to do in Zimbabwe?

1. Explore The Victoria Falls: If you're looking for a rejuvenating break, you must explore Victoria Falls, renowned for its milky white waters. From the sheer force of the waters tumbling into the canyons to the endless number of beautiful rainbows, surrounding rainforest, and local wildlife, Victoria Falls is a magical spectacle of nature.

This waterfall turns into an active rappelling spot during peak monsoon season. You can swim in the rock pools perched below the falls and enjoy bungee jumping over the spectacular falls.

Location: Zambezi River, Livingstone 10101 Zimbabwe

2. Visit The Zambezi River: One of the best activities to do in Zimbabwe is visiting The Zambezi River that is the fourth largest basin in Africa. The river is flanked by the national parks, and you can spot here crocodiles and hippos.

You can go canoeing in the Zambezi river, and it will give you a glimpse of the wildlife species, birds, and national parks. The different types of water levels here make it the best destination for white water rafting. You can also go for a nature walk alongside the Zambezi River.

Location: Livingstone 10101 Zimbabwe

3. See Great Zimbabwe Ruins: Feel like you're time traveling by setting your foot on Great Zimbabwe Ruins, an age-old site attributed to some Greek colonizers. They are the most extraordinary remains in Africa formed of rectangular granite stones that have been carefully placed one upon the other.

The ruins are considered to be the largest of their kind on the entire Zimbabwe Plateau. They can be classified into 3 separate archaeological zones –the Valley Ruins, the Hill Complex, and the Great Enclosure. The Valley Ruins include many mounds that are remnants of daga buildings.

Location: Masvingo, Masvingo Province

4. Explore Lake Kariba: If you're looking for a sun-kissed mini-vacation, you should head to Lake Kariba that is a magnificent attraction surrounded by grazing areas that attract many animal species.

The Lake is home to many fish species, including chessa bottlenose, nkupe, barbell, tigerfish, and vundu. This man-made Lake is a great fishing spot, and you can also enjoy horse rides and guided walks on the Lake's banks. You can also rent a houseboat to have a stunning watery sunset and sunrise views.

Location: Kariba Zimbabwe

5. Visit Chinhoyi Caves National Park: Indulge in a blissful sanctity of nature by visiting Chinhoyi Caves National Park, a hidden gem of Zimbabwe. The caves are made up of several tunnels that take you to the main cave renowned for its aquamarine-colored water.

The main highlight of the Chinhoyi Caves is "The Wonder Hole," which is a large cavern having a collapsed roof. The sides of the Wonder Hole drop down for one hundred and fifty feet to The Sleeping Pool or (Pool of the Fallen). The pool is known to be an excellent diving site for adventure enthusiasts.

Location: 5km From Chinhoyi Town Scubaworld & Universal Adventures, Chinhoyi Zimbabwe

6. Safari at National Park: Live out your safari dreams by visiting Hwange National Park that is home to over forty thousand elephants, big cats, and more than four hundred species of birds.

From big five animals like leopards, elephants, and lions to exotic birds flying in the sky, there are plenty of opportunities to spot the beasts in their natural habitat here. One of the best things to do in Zimbabwe at night is enjoying camping at this national park to reinvigorate your senses and get up close and personal with the bounties of nature.

Location: Matabeleland North Province
Price: Rs 600 per person

7. Walkthrough The City of Bulawayo: One of the best things to do in Zimbabwe is having a walk through the city of Bulawayo, a laidback place where modern and ancient meets. The city's highlight is its wide roads flanked by parks and tree-lined streets.

It has many Art Deco and Victorian-style buildings and Cecil Rhodes' legacies. Bulawayo also houses the National History Museum of Zimbabwe that features exhibits illustrating the country's mineral wealth, wildlife, and history. It also has some of the hippest clubs where you can party the night away.

Location: Southwest Zimbabwe

8. Mana Pools National Park: If you're looking for one of the best things to do in Zimbabwe, you should definitely explore Mana Pools, a biodiverse wonderland. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dotted with acacia trees, plants, and shrubs. You can spot here hippopotamus, elephants, crocodiles, and a wide array of aquatic birds.

It is a paradise for canoeing and walking safaris, and you'll relish the feeling of serenity and remoteness here. This national park's unique thing is that you can walk unaccompanied by guides on the old river terraces and open Albida woodland.

Location: Mana Pools National Park Zimbabwe
Price: Rs 1103 per person
Timings: 10 am- 6 pm

9. Safari at Matobo National Park: If you're looking for the best activities to do in Zimbabwe, you should definitely enjoy a safari at Matobo National Park. Spanning over forty-four thousand hectares, Matobo National Park is uniquely decorated by domes, balancing rock formations and spires hewn out of the solid granite plateau.

It has an Intensive Protection Zone, where White and Black Rhinoceros have been kept for breeding. You'll likely spot hippos, giraffes, crocodiles lurking in the rivers, and more than two million wildebeests arriving during the Great Migration.

Location: Matopos road, Bulawayo Zimbabwe
Price: Rs 800 per person
Timings: 10 am- 5:30 pm

10. Explore Khami Ruins: One of the best activities to do in Zimbabwe is exploring Khami Ruins, a magnificent stone structure building located about twenty-five kilometers from Bulawayo. It is an awe-inspiring feat of defensive architecture that is still intact with the remains of Rozvi Kingdom's early settlers.

It is dominated by a network of terraced stone ruins, out of which the largest ruin comprises three-tiered platforms that were the home of the royal dynasty. Visitors can wander around the ruins on several paths to learn about the area's unique natural and cultural heritage.

Location: 22 km West of Bulawayo, Bulawayo Zimbabwe

Which are the best safaris in Zimbabwe?

1. Matetsi Private Game Reserve: Matetsi Private Game Reserve, situated on the elephant route, encompasses a large woodland and floodplain and offers incredible wildlife sightings. The reserve is home to leopard, lion, spotted hyena, African wild dog, and various other animals. You can enjoy here daily game drives, walking safaris, boat cruises, upper Zambezi canoeing, fishing, bird watching, and horseback safaris.

2. Matobo National Park: This is an iconic destination known for protecting Africa's endangered black and white rhino. The park is home to eighty-eight mammal species, including hippo, giraffe, hyena, zebra, wildebeest, leopard, sand ostriches, etc. A rhino-tracking walking safari is considered to be one of the greatest wildlife adventures at this national park.

3. Chobe National Park: One of the best activities to do in Zimbabwe is enjoying a safari tour of Chobe National Park, the best game viewing park in the world. It is the world's best elephant viewing site, and large herds of elephants gather at the Chobe river's edge during the day. It is also home to wildebeest, giraffe, hippo, zebra, hyena, cheetah, and other smaller species.

4. Zambezi National Park: If you're looking for one of the best activities to do in Zimbabwe, you should enjoy a safari tour of Zambezi National Park that has an incredible variety of wildlife. Step onboard on a boat or silently pass the riverbank in a canoe to have the best wildlife viewing. If you wish to have a real bush experience, you can stay in the lodges located near the Zambezi River inside the park.

What are the most romantic things to do in Zimbabwe for couples?

1. Appreciate the beauty of Victoria Falls: One of the most romantic things to do in Zimbabwe is admiring the beauty of Victoria Falls that is the most iconic waterfall in Africa. If you're looking to propose your date on a special day, you can visit Victoria Falls during a full moon when the light of the moon strikes through the waterfall and produces a lunar rainbow.

2. Enjoy jet boating on the Zambezi River: If you and your partner are an adventurous soul, you can enjoy jet boating on the Zambezi River for the adventure of a lifetime. Race over rapids, past the basalt, rock walls, and feel your heart racing while enduring the "Hamilton Spins."

3. Malachite Luxury Cruise: One of the best things to do in Zimbabwe at night is to enjoy an unparalleled sunset cruise experience on the Zambezi river's azure waters. You'll also have a scrumptious dinner during the cruise tour, and you can watch the glorious colors of the African sky from the upper deck at dusk.

4. Shake your legs at the bar: One of the most romantic things to do in Zimbabwe at night is dancing endlessly while sipping your favorite drinks at famous bars such as Chiedza bar, Tequila bar, and Brothers bar. If live music, great vibes, and amazing food are some of the things you and your partner love, you should definitely indulge in bar hopping in Zimbabwe.

What are the things to do in Zimbabwe with kids?

1. Visit Bulawayo Railway Museum: One of the best things to do in Zimbabwe with kids is visiting Bulawayo Railway Museum that houses various exhibitions on Zimbabwe's railway system's rich history. You can brush up your kids' inquisitive skills as they witness the carriages, engines, cutlery and crockery, and wonderful photographs from Royal visits.

2. Enjoy a picnic at Domboshava Hills: If you're looking for the best things to do in Zimbabwe with kids, you should definitely enjoy a picnic at Domboshava Hills. The geological formations, flowing streams, pools, and wooded vegetation are some of the most scenic things you will witness here. The kids can also admire the beautiful paintings on the granite rocks.

3. Enjoy thrilling rides at Longcheng Amusement Park: One of the best things to do in Zimbabwe with your kids is visiting Longcheng Amusement Park that has some of the best kid-friendly rides such as Kangaroo rides, flying fish, flying dinosaurs, small bees, etc. You can also enjoy water slides, trampoline, and club rollers.

4. Explore Mukuvisi Woodlands: Exploring Mukuvisi Woodlands is considered one of the best things to do in Zimbabwe with kids as it houses indigenous flora and fauna. You can opt for a horse or bike safari or observe the stunning vistas from the platform of a viewing deck.

What are the best adventure activities in Zimbabwe?

1. Bungee Jumping: One of the best activities to do in Zimbabwe is taking a plunge over Victoria Falls that is renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes. You'll experience one hundred and eleven meters of freefall and four seconds of pure adrenaline while bungee jumping here.

2. White Water Rafting: Rafting on the Zambezi River is considered one of the best things to do in Zimbabwe to spike your adrenaline level. Zambezi river offers Class V and IV rapids within a fifteen-mile stretch of water, and you can enjoy here the most thrilling and adventurous white water rafting experience.

3. Flying Fox: Explore Zimbabwe's native forests and surreal landscapes from a whole new perspective while zipping over the Batoka Gorge. The flexible harnesses at Batoka Gorge allow you to go upside down or side by side while enjoying the breathtaking vistas.

4. Tandem Skydiving: One of the best activities to do in Zimbabwe for adrenaline lovers is skydiving at Victoria Falls to admire the splendid views of the Main Falls, Devil's Cataract, Horseshoe Falls, and Rainbow Falls from above. Freefall until your parachute opens up and you drift back to the drop zone in Zambezi National Park.

How can I reach Zimbabwe?

- By Flight: There are three airports in Zimbabwe-The Harare International airport, Victoria Falls airport, and Bulawayo International airport. You can go from London, New York via Johannesburg by South African Airways. British Airways have direct flights to Harare. Fastjet Zimbabwe, Airlink, South African Airways, TAAG Angola Airlines, Kenya Airways, Air Zimbabwe, KLM and Air India all fly direct to Zimbabwe from India.

- By Rail: There are 2 trains from South Africa to Zimbabwe- the Trans-Limpopo Express to Harare from Johannesburg and the Bulawayo Express to Johannesburg from Bulawayo.

What is the best time to visit Zimbabwe?

May to September is considered the best time to visit Zimbabwe as, during this time, you can have an excellent wildlife viewing experience as animals and birds congregate around the waterholes and rivers. Additionally, the weather is pleasant during the day, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities and sightseeing.

What is Zimbabwe famous for?

1. Mana Pools National Park: It is the only national park in Zimbabwe where you can walk among elephants, buffaloes, and predators without a guide.

2. Hwange National Park: It is the largest national park in Zimbabwe, home to savanna woodlands and grasslands, the Big Five, and a hundred other species of mammals.

3. Victoria Falls: It is the largest waterfall in the world, with a height of more than one hundred meters and a length of more than one kilometer. You can enjoy bungee-jumping, white water rafting, and canyoning.

4. Lake Kariba: It is the largest artificial Lake in the world where you can enjoy diverse wildlife allure and the beautiful sunset.

5. Balancing Rocks: Balancing Rocks are the igneous rocks found in several parts of Zimbabwe. They occur in a balanced state without any additional support.

Is it safe to go to Zimbabwe?

Yes, it is absolutely safe to go to Zimbabwe as the crime rate is low over here. But robbery and mugging cases are found, so you're advised to keep your valuables safely. Take basic precautions and you are good to go.

Do I need a visa for Zimbabwe?

Yes, you need a visa to visit Zimbabwe, and this can be obtained in the United States from the Zimbabwe Embassy. If you're visiting Zimbabwe for business, transit, or tourism, you can obtain a visa at the border ports-of-entry or airports.

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