Zimbabwe has long been a safari destination favorite thanks to its beautiful scenery, fantastic wildlife and fascinating history. Visitors can see the Big 5, ply the waters of the mighty Zambezi River, see the spectacular Victoria Falls, explore on a walking or canoeing safari and more. The skill level of safari guides in Zimbabwe is nothing short of exceptional. Their certification requirements are the toughest on the continent and that translates to excellent safari experiences for travelers.
Here we’ll dig into everything you need to know about Zimbabwe safaris.
Zimbabwe is approximately half the size of Texas and has varied geography. From the massive granite boulders of the Matobo Hills to the rushing waters of the might Zambezi River tumbling over the Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe is a landlocked, geologic wonder. There are national parks with wide-open savannas, rushing rivers with whitewater excitement, towering mountains reaching over 8,000 feet and one of the world’s largest manmade lakes that offers delightful water and land-based safaris.
Visitors have the chance to see Africa’s Big 5, along with countless other species including wild dog, giraffe, zebra, rare antelope species such as roan and sable, abundant bird life and much more! Many private reserves offer a wide variety of activities that range from the chance to observe animals in sunken hides, walking safaris, canoeing, night game drives and more.
Zimbabwe also affords travelers the chance to see impressive rock art and complex, ancient ruins.
Zimbabwe has a variety of destinations – something to please every safari traveler. Perhaps best known is Zimbabwe’s most visited destination, Victoria Falls. It is one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world, crowned by a towering column of spray when the river is high and rumbling with the thunder of immense amounts of falling water. The local people call it “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” the smoke that thunders.
Not far from Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park is a world-class safari destination where you can find over 100 mammal species – the highest diversity of mammals of any national park in the world – and 400 bird species, as well as the seasonal presence of one of the largest elephant herds on the planet. It is one of the largest parks in Southern Africa (roughly the size of Massachusetts or the Serengeti for comparison) and has a wide range of activities and accommodations.
Gonarezhou is Zimbabwe’s second largest national park and is extremely remote, supporting a wide range of mammals and birds. More than 400 bird species can be spotted in the park, and its beautiful scenery includes dramatic sandstone cliffs that offer a brilliant backdrop during every season. Gonarezhou translates to ‘place of elephants’ and is home to more than 10,000 of the large mammals, along with lions, rare brown hyenas and wild dogs, a variety of plains game and more. Neighboring private Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve offers the chance to see its robust black rhino population, as well as an exceptional level of luxury lodging.
Lake Kariba, one of the largest manmade lakes on the planet, is a locals’ secret. For those in the know, the lake provides a range of engaging safari activities and unique accommodation – from luxurious lodges to private houseboats. The scenery is gorgeous and two national parks border its shores. Matusadona National Park’s lush landscapes combined with the glittering lake make for wonderful photography. Over 240 bird species can be seen in the park, making it a haven for birders. Lion, buffalo, elephant, waterbuck and impala are found in good numbers, making game viewing rewarding.
Another of Zimbabwe’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Mana Pools National Park is known for its remoteness, its elephants and its lions. Mana Pools is also synonymous with the Zambezi River, canoeing safaris and wild beauty. This is the place to spot hippos, crocodiles and aquatic birds, as well as eland, buffalo, impala, lions, leopards, spotted hyena, cheetah and more making it a favorite for a Zimbabwe safari.
For those interested in Zimbabwe’s history, the ruined city of Great Zimbabwe is a national treasure. The largest stone structure ever built south of the Sahara Desert, Great Zimbabwe’s first stones were laid more than 900 years ago, and it continues to be an architectural marvel. Built over centuries, the UNESCO World Heritage Site gives travelers the chance to explore what was an incredibly complex set of structures for their time.
In other wonders, close to Zimbabwe’s second largest city of Bulawayo you will find one of Southern Africa’s most interesting and breathtaking rock landscapes, Matobo Hills. Weather-shaped granite dominates this national park and provides unforgettable vistas. Hiking, tours of rock art sites that document the area’s 40,000-plus-year history of human habitation, a visit to Cecil Rhodes’ grave and cultural visits are among its highlights. It is also home to Zimbabwe’s largest leopard population.
These are some of Zimbabwe’s many delightful, diverse and interesting safari destinations. Contact a Journey Specialist to discuss which areas might be right for your customized safari.
Most visitors to Zimbabwe spend at least a little time in Victoria Falls, which offers lots of activities for travelers – from serene to heart-thumping. From walking tours, cultural interests and scenic flights to river cruises, fishing and adrenaline activities, there is something for absolutely everyone.
Activities on offer while on safari are varied depending on your choice of park, your interests and accommodation selection. Day and night game drives, walking safaris, wildlife viewing from sunken hides and elevated platforms, fishing, bush meals, sundowners, sleep outs and more are available – just let us know your interests!
The types of accommodations available when you choose a Zimbabwe safari vary wildly. You can choose a luxury lodge, a deluxe tented lodge, a tree house on an island in the middle of the Zambezi River, a houseboat on Lake Kariba and more! Some of our favorite lodges include Relais & Chateaux Tembo Plains Camp in Mana Pools National Park, the luxurious Matetsi Victoria Falls, the unique Big Cave Camp in Matobo National Park and Bomani Tented Lodge on a private reserve abutting Hwange National Park. Talk with your Journey Specialist about the right fit for you and visit our Zimbabwe page for inspiration.
Zimbabwe is a year-round destination; however the changing seasons are worth considering. Victoria Falls is a highly seasonal destination, making certain activities better during certain times of the year. This makes it important to work with an expert when planning your visit. Our Journey Specialists will help you choose the best time for you to experience Victoria Falls based on your interests.
For Zimbabwe’s game parks, the dry season holds great rewards. With sparse vegetation and scarce water, wildlife congregates around year-round natural waterholes or pumped ‘pans’ (waterholes) to drink, making for great game viewing. During the wetter seasons, animals will disperse and vegetation regains its lushness, making game viewing a bit more challenging, though photography is wonderful with stunning scenery.
You will most likely arrive in Victoria Falls when visiting Zimbabwe, though you could also fly into its capital city, Harare. For most safari destinations, you will fly to a nearby airport or airstrip and be transported to your accommodations in an open game vehicle. While on safari, you might be in a vehicle, on a boat, in a helicopter, on foot or even a mountain bike. Let us know what you would like to do!
Reach out to one of our Journey Specialists to start planning your customized Zimbabwe safari. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter below for more safari information, stories and trip inspiration.
Photos courtesy Marcelo Novais, AAC Tanzanite Circle member Steve B., Somalisa Expeditions, Pamushana Lodge, Arpit Rastogi, Tembo Plains Camp, Ajeet Panesar, Big Cave Camp, Matetsi, Bushcamp Company, Imvelo Safari Lodges and Tatenda Mapigoti