This magnificent country is home to some of Africa’s most legendary safari stops: the natural wonder of the Victoria Falls, the incredibly game-rich national parks of Hwange and Mana Pools – but adding to this rich natural heritage is a ‘make a plan’ attitude that has managed, despite its recent political tumult, to keep Zimbabwe as one of the most rewarding and inspiring safari destinations.
HIGHLIGHTS IN ZIMBABWE
Our ‘not to be missed’ recommendations for your holiday
VICTORIA FALLS
The most asked question is “Which side is the best side to view the Falls?”. Zimbabwe and Zambia go hand-in-hand as they are located on opposite shores across the mighty Zambezi river. The town of Victoria Falls is located on the Zimbabwean side whilst Livingstone is on the Zambian side.
In our opinion, Zimbabwe does have the better view of the Falls. However, with quick and easy access to Zambia (a day-visa is available), why not visit both? A visit to Livingstone Island (Zambia) is well worth a trip across the border as you can enjoy the view right from the top of the Falls. During low water levels, enjoy a swim in Devil’s Pool situated on the edge of the Falls (pre booking is essential).
Victoria Falls is also easily combined with any safari itinerary whether you are in southern parts of Africa or even East Africa!
HWANGE
Due to its vast size, Hwange includes a diverse range of habitats from bush scrub to dense teak forests punctuated by large granite outcroppings. Its most prized area, however, are the open plains and seasonal pans where it is possible to see an incredible diversity of species in just one day. Renowned for its elephant and lion population, a safari here rewards quickly and easily with exceptional sightings. It’s possible to see the more obscure sable and roan as well.
Just a few hours south of Victoria Falls, it is possible to use drive and train to get here, but most safaris fly-in to one of the park’s airstrips. Once there, game drives and walks are preferred mode of wildlife viewing.
Hwange is famous for its large elephant and buffalo herds, sable antelope, excellent plains game and predator sightings.
MANA POOLS
Opposite Zambia’s Lower Zambezi River, you will find its cousin in Zimbabwe: Mana Pools National Park. Cutting through the valley for centuries, the Zambezi river has formed an amalgamation of lakes, floodplains and channels which now define the ecosystem here.
Hosting excellent populations of elephant in the dry season, and general game year-round, this renowned wildlife-viewing area is a must-see from May to November. Exploration here on foot, by canoe or vehicle, makes a rewarding spot for doing safari as it was done decades ago.
Zambezi Expeditions in Mana Pools: one of Africa’s most renowned game-viewing destinations.
WHERE TO GO IN ZIMBABWE
A selection of unforgettable places to visit
Victoria Falls
Witness the spectacular and natural wonder of the Victoria Falls.
Hwange
Famous for its large elephant and buffalo herds, sable antelope, excellent plains game and predator sightings.
Mana Pools
Opposite Zambia’s Lower Zambezi River, you will find its cousin in Zimbabwe: Mana Pools National Park: one of Africa's most renowned game-viewing destinations.
Lake Kariba
Situated between Zambia and Zimbabwe this is the world's largest man-made lake, offering a great, easy to access destination for relaxing getaways, fishing, and water sports.
Matobo Hills
Located in southwest Zimbabwe, this national park is best known for the Matobo Hills, a range of balancing rock formations created by erosion of the granite plateau.
Gonarezhou
One of Africa’s last remaining pristine wildernesses. Gonarezhou means 'Place of Elephants' and is home to over 8,000 of them. Lion, cheetah, wild dog, hyena, buffalo, hippo and giraffe can also be seen.
Where to stay in Zimbabwe
Some of our preferred safari camps and lodges
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Victoria Falls Hotel
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
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Somalisa Camp
Hwange, Zimbabwe
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Victoria Falls River Lodge
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
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Ruckomechi Camp
Mana Pools, Zimbabwe
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Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe
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Zambezi Expeditions
Mana Pools, Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls Hotel
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Lovingly referred to as the ‘Grande Dame of Victoria Falls’, originally built in 1904 as accommodations for workers on the Cape-to-Cairo railway, it is now a 5-star luxury hotel. Walking through the hallways is like walking through a museum. Dramatic views of the gorges of Victoria Falls., and incredible dining and an exquisite high tea service.
Staying here offers easy access to all of the activities that Victoria Falls is famous for: bungee jumping, white water rafting, helicopter rides and more. A wonderful place to stay in the heart of Victoria Falls.
Somalisa Camp
Hwange, Zimbabwe
Located on the eastern side of Hwange National Park, the camp is in a stunning location on a seasonal waterway providing breathtaking views of the savannah plains and regular visits by the park’s famous elephant herds. The camp even has its own ‘elephant pool’ that is a natural waterhole where herds of game come for a drink.
Somalisa consists of 7 elegant and luxurious tents that include a fireplace for those cold winter nights and overhead fan for the hot summer days. The guiding and staff are wonderful, and the spirit of this owner-operated camp is uplifting.
Victoria Falls River Lodge
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Ruckomechi Camp
Mana Pools, Zimbabwe
Situated on a large private concession in the heart of the Zambezi Valley’s Mana Pools National Park, Ruckomechi Camp looks out from the banks of the mighty Zambezi river. It is a remote and picturesque place with spectacular views of the broad flowing river and the mountains of the Rift Valley escarpment that lies on the other side of the river in Zambia.
Shaded by a large grove of acacia and mahogany trees, the camp accommodates guests in ten beautifully appointed and spacious en-suite tents. This seasonal camp (starting beginning of May until mid-November) offers incredible game viewing in this area: a true photographer’s paradise whether in a vehicle, on a boat or on foot.
Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe
