Zimbabwe is one of our favourite countries in the world. Often described as the most beautiful in all of Southern Africa, the country has recently been in the news for all the right reasons, and is home to the majestic Victoria Falls and to some of the best safari experiences on the continent. To help you get the most out of your holiday to Zimbabwe, we have prepared a list of our top five things to see and do in this extraordinary country.
1. Experience the Victoria Falls
No visit to Zimbabwe would be complete without a visit to the iconic Victoria Falls. Straddling the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, they’re one of the seven natural wonders of the world and best seen from the Zimbabwean side of the border where two thirds of the falls lie and the water flows all year round. They're a fabulous playground for thrill seekers, as well as lovers of beauty, tranquillity and relaxing pursuits. If you’re an adventure junkie, why not give bungee jumping or white water rafting a try. However, if you’d prefer to sit back and let someone else do all the work for you then a helicopter ride over the falls is a fantastic option.
2. Go On Safari
Home to unspoilt wildernesses, luxurious camps and exceptional guides, Zimbabwe is one of the best places to go on safari in Africa. In the far north of the country, there is the incredible Mana Pools National Park. A remote and beautiful wilderness, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984 and hosts a wide variety of wildlife and birdlife. In the west of the country, there is Hwange. This National Park, which is one of the biggest in Africa is home to a very large elephant population and is also one of the finest places on the continent to experience game viewing on foot.
3. Visit The Great Zimbabwe Ruins
The Great Zimbabwe Ruins are the the largest collection of ruins in Africa south of the Sahara and have intrigued both locals and visitors for centuries. Built between the 11th and 15th centuries, they are a great testament to a culture of great wealth and great architectural skill. Although inexpertly restored in many places, the ruins at Great Zimbabwe are still by a long margin the most impressive ancient structures in sub-Saharan Africa and a source of great pride for the people of Zimbabwe.
4. Enjoy A Sunset At Lake Kariba
Along the Zambezi River is Lake Kariba, which was created when a dam was built across the Zambezi in the early sixties to provide hydro-electric power for the country. Now, the lake, which covers an area of 5,000 square kilometers is a special place of incredible beauty that is a nature lover's dream with prolific bird life and game viewing. A great way to experience the very best that the lake has to offer is to spend a few days on a house boat when there is a full moon. The twilight atmosphere between sunset and full moon rise on this lake is quite magical!
5. See The Rock Formations Of Matobo National Park
Established in 1953, Matobo National Park is a stunning and otherworldly landscape that was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Status in 2003 . As well as its unique rock formations, the park also boasts a wide variety of wildlife including black eagles, leopards and the very endangered black and white rhinos. It is a place of great spiritual and cultural significance for Zimbabweans and is also home to the final resting place of Cecil John Rhodes who was the founder of Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe and Zambia).
Looking to book a dream holiday to Zimbabwe? Get in touch with us by calling 020 7843 3500 or email us at info@africatravel.co.uk
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