Zimbabwe at a glance
Zimbabwe is often overlooked by travelers, frequently due to its political climate. However, this country bordering Botswana and Namibia holds plenty of rewards for those who make the trip. In fact, 13% of its total land area is dedicated to wildlife parks and nature reserves.
African urban life and legendary waterfalls
Most trips begin in the capital, Harare. It is worth spending a day or two here to experience the energy of the city, its parks, and its museums. You will notice the jacaranda trees, which become covered in violet flowers, lining the streets. Do not miss the National Gallery for its African art exhibitions or the Harare Gardens, which feature a small tropical forest. Use caution regarding personal safety after dark. The true showstopper of Zimbabwe is, of course, Victoria Falls. Walking along the paths above the mist provides a view you will not soon forget. Roughly 550,000 cubic meters of water plunge into the Zambezi gorges, dropping 100 meters down. If you look closely, you might spot elephants, lions, and hippos in the surrounding area.
Tracing history
The country holds an invaluable cultural and historical treasure: the Great Zimbabwe National Monument. Between the 13th and 15th centuries, this was the largest medieval city in sub-Saharan Africa. This UNESCO World Heritage site is striking, characterized by its massive granite walls. Today, it serves as a significant record of the Bantu civilization from that era. You can continue your historical tour at the Khami ruins, another UNESCO site that succeeded Great Zimbabwe. To get there, you can take the small Train Museum in Bulawayo.
Nature in its raw form
Zimbabwe is a premier destination for its sprawling natural landscapes and diverse wildlife. Hwange National Park is the largest reserve in the country, covering 14,650 square kilometers. You will find a wide variety of animals here, including cheetahs, baboons, buffalo, hyenas, lions, and various antelope species. It is estimated that between 30,000 and 40,000 elephants roam freely in the park. Matusadono National Park also hosts significant wildlife, including black rhinos that were reintroduced several years ago. As for Matobo National Park, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its spectacular rock formations, which have been weathered into unusual, gravity-defying shapes.
When to go
You can visit Zimbabwe throughout the year, but the dry season is the best time for wildlife viewing. This season runs from April to October and offers mild, comfortable temperatures during the day. The rainy season, which lasts from late November through March or early April, brings heavy rainfall and humid, intense heat.
How to get there
Direct flights from the United States to Harare are nonexistent, and you will typically find very few direct options even from major European hubs. Most flights involve a layover in Johannesburg, South Africa. Expect a total travel time between 17 and 20 hours, with tickets starting around €600 (about $650). You can also reach Zimbabwe by train or bus if you are already traveling through South Africa, Botswana, or Mozambique.