Best Holiday Destinations in Zimbabwe Travel Guide, Vacation in Zimbabwe Planning Tips & Travel Information

If you are looking for something different and memorable on your next trip with your family, the holiday destination Zimbabwe is one of the best countries you could consider. It is one of the most fabulous destinations because of its culture, history, and attractions. There are many fascinating places that you can visit with your group. Not to mention that Zimbabwe is the host of the top UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Victoria Falls, Kama Ruins, Great Zimbabwe ruins, and Mana Pools National Park. The friendly locals are welcoming all travelers at home. So, wherever the destination you go in the country, you will feel at your second home. There is a lot to enjoy in best places to visit in Zimbabwe. Whether you are adventurer, nature lovers, or usual holidaymaker, you will not regret your trip to the best holiday destinations in Zimbabwe.

Victoria Falls, considered the largest waterfall in the world.

Facts and figures of holiday destination Zimbabwe

Area: 390,757 km2 (150,872 sq mi)
Population: 17,254,855 (2019 est.)
Languages: 16 languages:
Chewa, Chibarwe, English, Kalanga, “Koisan” (presumably Tsoa), Nambya, Ndau, Ndebele, Shangani, Shona, Sotho, Tonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa

Religion: Christianity (Majority), Hindu (minority), Muslim (minority)
Jewish (minority), Traditional beliefs in rural areas
Population density: 26/km2 (67.3/sq mi)
Administrative Capital: Harare.
Harare has about 1,542,813 (2019 est.)
Currency: Zimbabwean dollar
Vehicle registration: ZW
International dialing code for Ethiopia: ‎+263
Form of government: Unitary presidential republic
Largest city: Harare
Public Holidays:

1 January New Year’s Day
21 February Robert Mugabe National Youth Day (from 2018)
Easter Sunday -2d Good Friday
Easter Sunday -1d Easter Saturday
Easter Sunday +1d Easter Monday
18 April Independence Day
1 May Worker’s Day
25 May Africa Day
Second Monday in August Heroes’ Day
Tuesday after Second Monday of August Defence Forces Day
22 December Unity Day
25 December Christmas Day
26 December Boxing Day

Emergency numbers: Police: +263 4 995 Fire/Ambulance: +263 4 783980/7
Time zone: UTC+2 (CAT)
Entry requirements: Visa and valid passport
Power: Electrical plug D & G. 220V and 50Hz
Driving side: left

History and culture of holiday destination Zimbabwe

The nowadays the holiday destination Zimbabwe is the continuation of the structurized civilization back from the 13th and 14th centuries. The country is dominated by the descendants of Bantu tribes, who came to the land from the north in the 10th century.

In the 15th, the first Europeans, specifically Portuguese, were in contact with the tribes for the first time. The Europeans and native Zimbabwe had been living in harmony until around 1830s when the colonists arrived aggressively. The country name was Southern Rhodesia back then.

But the natives were not keeping quiet. Between 1953 and 1963 formed the Central African Federation to resist the colonization.

They fought and gained independence in 1980.

Highlights of best holiday destinations in Zimbabwe

As mentioned, there are many things presented on the table. You just need to pick the agenda which suits you and your companion’s preferences. Here are the highlights of the holiday destination Zimbabwe.

Hotel in Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls – one of the best holiday destinations in Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is the world’s highest and most beautiful waterfall. Not only the remarkable size, but the beauty of the falling water has also put all the travelers under the spell. You will not forget the experience in witnessing the Victoria Falls from a closer distance.

Khami Ruins

Kami Ruins is a must-visit destination. The city presents the legacy of Torwa dynasty in ruins. It is in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Definitely a goal you want to go with your family or friends.

Lake Kariba

It is the largest manmade lake in the Zambezi river. If you prefer a soothing Zimbabwe vacation rather than a crowded one, it is a perfect place to visit.

Zambezi River

The river is located just below the Victoria Falls. As the 4th largest river in Africa, the river crosses six different countries and streams many waterfalls. It presents a lot of activities and tours you don’t want to miss.

Painted Dogs Center

The others call them African Wild Dogs. The endangered species is protected by the Painted Dogs Conservation Center. Take your chance to see the lovely creature from a closer distance in the Painted Dog Center.

Best places to visit of the holiday destinations in Zimbabwe

Matobo Hills

Matopos or Matobo hills are the huge granite rock which forms such incredible landmark. Situated in the Matobo National Park, these have been the top-rated best holiday destinations in Zimbabwe because of its historical and cultural aspects.

Masvingo / Great Zimbabwe Ruins

It is also called as the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. The Masvingo ruins have been the World Heritage site since 1986.

Hwange National Park

Wild lovers, enjoy the park by seeing lions, wildebeest, giraffe, and 100 marvelous mammals in the national park.

Victoria Falls

It is definitely one of the most important destinations you can’t miss to visit when you are traveling in Zimbabwe safari. The falls are lovely from different points of view. Make sure you explore it to the fullest.

Mutarazi Falls

The 762 meters falls are a great idea to visit if you want to aspire the beauty of Zimbabwe safari in the Nyanga National Park.

Chinhoyi Caves

The caves are accessible because of its deep blue natural pool. Be prepared for the breathtaking views of the place.

Chimanimani

It is the name of mountains that you can hike with your companions. It offers you fantastic views and fantastic weather.

National parks of holiday destination Zimbabwe

Matobo National Park

This national park is popular because of its exposed granite outcrops. The national park area is blessed with the natural beauty you don’t want to miss.

Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is one of the best holiday destinations in Zimbabwe and Africa. It offers sightseeing of magical creatures like lions and elephants.

Antelope Park

It is a holiday destination in Zimbabwe private wildlife park which is perfect for Zimbabwe safari makers, escapists, nature lovers, educational Zimbabwe safari, and so on. It boasts top accommodation and amenities to make your Zimbabwe safari more perfect.

Mana Pools National park

It is a remote park which will give you a natural sanctuary. The place is one of the best holiday destinations in Zimbabwe and offers you the opportunity to escape from the crowd with the bonus elephants sightseeing.

Zambezi National Park

When you come to Zambezi national park, you and your companions will have the whole package of the holiday destination Zimbabwe. It boasts sightseeing, cultural tourism, Victoria falls, and many other activities.

Nyanga National Park

It offers incredible mountain views, waterfalls, flora and fauna, hills, and Cascade rivers.

Chizarira National Park

The National Park boasts the untouched flora and faunas, as well as the fantastic park for enjoying the real tranquility.

Kazuma Pan National Park

It boasts a variety of water birds. Make sure to bring your cam to document all the majestic creatures.

Matusadona National Park

This national park is all about the valley’s wildlife and wilderness sightseeing. It offers various exciting parts, including the creeks, bays, shorelines, river lines, as well as the Mountains.

Chinhoyi Caves

The caves of Chinhoyi are thrilling and fascinating at the same time. These consist of tunnels system, dark caverns, as well as sunlit pools.

Lake Chivero Recreational Park

For those who want to have a perfect bird sightseeing, consider visiting Lake Chivero Recreational Park. It is the real heaven of wildlife.

Osborne Dam Recreational park

Its beautiful nature is the main point of this attraction. All the visitors have the chance to enjoy the high altitude health, slopes, lush green, fresh river waters, and fantastic resort.

Lake Manyame Recreational Park

The breathtaking views of the lake accompanied by the excellent picnic sites. It is one of the best parks for group and family.

Ewanrigg Botanical Garden

It is the host of tons of exotic plants. The scenic views will make you forget how much time you spend to enjoy its nature.

Kuimba Shiri Bird Park

There are around 460 species of exotic birds hosted in this park. Make sure you don’t miss this bird park if you are a bird lover.

Vumba Botanical Gardens and Reserve

The lush gardens of The Vumba Botanical Gardens and Reserve are building the soothing ambiance of the Eastern Highlands. It is a great time to walk among the lush gardens and share the joy with your companions.

Chimanimani National Park

It is the place which boasts the mountain, springs, waterfalls, as well as breathtaking rivers. Enjoy all the natures here.

Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou means “place of many elephants.” as the name suggests, you will see the scenic elephants horde altogether with various species of birds.

Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve

Located nearby Gonarezhou National Park, it boasts the various plant and animal species, as well as natural scapes you don’t want to miss.

National Herbarium and Botanic Garden

The 58-hectare botanical garden will give tons of species representations you might never saw before in your life.

Discover the holiday destinations in Zimbabwe’s major cities on your vacation in Zimbabwe

Harare

The Capital of holiday destination Zimbabwe. The wealthy suburb of the city boasts fantastic amenities like malls, golf clubs, and hotels.

Chitungwiza

The town is one of the newest cities in Africa. It was established in 1978 as the integration of Seke, Zengeza, and St Marys.

Mutare

It is the town of Shona ethnicity residents and sites as a tourist center. It is fascinating because of its historical attractions, farming, mining, and cattle-keeping tradition.

Bulawayo

The city has such a rich history you don’t want to miss when it comes to Zimbabwe Ndebele Empire.

Other cities:

• Epworth
• Gweru
• Kwekwe
• Kadoma
• Masvingo
• Chinhoyi

Top places to visit for nature and wildlife of best holiday destinations in Zimbabwe

The holiday destinations in Zimbabwe are blessed with tons of natural wonders. The country has the best panoramic view, favorable weather, breathtaking scenery, fantastic terrain, and lush landscapes. Both the heritage and manmade nature wonders are too great to be missed. It is also the home to one of the seven natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls. The holiday destination Zimbabwe has many waterfalls, rivers, rock formations, mountains, and many more. Flora and fauna are abundant so that it won’t be enough to cover all of the exciting things in a day or two.

Activities and best places to visit of holiday destinations in Zimbabwe

The holiday destination Zimbabwe has everything to support your leisure activities. From the cultural and heritage tourism to sporting tourism, the country offers you the opportunity to make great memories.

Some sport that you could try there:

• Jet Skiing
• Wakeboarding
• Golfing
• Barefoot skiing
• General power boating
• Walking Safari in Mana Pools National Park
• Helicopter flights over the Falls
• Zambezi river cruise
• Elephant safari ride
• Canoe trails
• Horse trails
• Bungi jumping
• Rainforest walk
• White water rafting

Consider doing something more in your holiday destination Zimbabwe vacations. The nature traits present you with unusual activities like kayaking, bungee jumping, river surfing, zip wires, and so on.

Food & drink in the holiday destinations in Zimbabwe

The staple food of Zimbabwean cuisine is corn or maize which you can find in the various menu in local restaurants. The dishes are mostly of traditional African influence. But in some recipes, you can see the different influences brought by British colonization.

Some favorite dishes you must try:

• Sadza
• Bota
• Dovi
• Nhedzi
• Mapopo Candy

You will find a lot of pubs and bars in Zimbabwe’s cities. They offer various drinks. But the most popular alcoholic drink is beer. Maize beer is the traditional beverage you must try. Keep in mind that the drinking age is 18 years old and above.

Best time for visiting the best holiday destinations in Zimbabwe

The best holiday destinations in Zimbabwe weather are mostly tropics. But when you visit high elevated destinations, you could expect the subtropical conditions. Dry months happen from August to October. Eastern part of the country receives more rainfall, moreover in the rainy season. The high altitude best places to visit could be much more relaxed from May to August.

How to get to your holiday destinations in Zimbabwe

Harare International Airport and Victoria Falls International Airport are the airports that you will arrive and depart.

Victoria Falls International Airport /  Photo: Courtesy Of The Chronicle

Travelling in Zimbabwe: Bus, Train, Flights

By Bus

The local Zimbabwe bus transportation offers travelers two types: express and local. The regular express bus services operate strictly based on formal timetables. You will want to read the timelines thoroughly to get your transportation correctly.

By Train

The railway network of Zimbabwe links Bulawayo, Harare, Mutare, and Victoria Falls.

By Plane

In the recent five years, there are more airlines that offer cheap flights to holiday destination Zimbabwe.
Harare International Airport has been more crowded than before. You will find a lot of alternatives there.

Entry requirements of holiday destinations in Zimbabwe

There are three visa categories:

Category A: Countries whose nationals do not require a Visa. Folks from these countries will grant entry at the border post.
Category B: The countries whose nationals will attain a Zimbabwe visa at the port of entry. There are visa fees to pay.
Category C: Countries whose nationals need to apply for the visa before traveling to Zimbabwe vacations.

Make sure you have known which category your country set before arriving at your holiday destination Zimbabwe.