Home to Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe is filled with natural beauty and rich culture. On a drive through Zimbabwe, you’ll travel through stretches of dusty desert interrupted by twisted trees and marvel at the lush green oasis of Victoria Falls. The list of things to do in Zimbabwe is long—from going on a safari to spot the Big 5, to exploring the 9th-century ruins of Great Zimbabwe city, to watching the sunset on a Zambezi River cruise.
The ideal time to book your trip to Zimbabwe depends on what you want to see and do. If you’re hoping to raft the Zambezi River, visit in the dry seasons of July–August or December–January when the water levels will be low, resulting in wild rapids. These are also good times to visit for game viewing, as the animals congregate around reduced watering holes. For the most dramatic version of Victoria Falls, visit in the rainy season of February–May.
Zimbabwe is spread out, so it’s handy to have your own car if you’re planning on visiting a few sites. There are buses and trains that run in Zimbabwe, but they tend to be slow and unreliable. If you’re not planning on renting a car, book a tour that covers the areas you want to see, or plan to make one area your home base. Most visitors fly into Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in the capital of Harare, or the Victoria Falls Airport.
If you plan to raft the Zambezi River, give the people you’re traveling with a Nyami-Nyami necklace. A representation of the god of the Zambezi River, the necklace is meant to ensure the wearer’s safety. You can find them in local markets and shops, but they have to be given as a gift, according to tradition.
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Zimbabwe is famous for Victoria Falls, called “the smoke that thunders” by the Kololo tribe. One of the largest waterfalls in the world, it plunges into a gorge that divides Zimbabwe and Zambia. Visitors come to hike the paths beside it, raft the river, and bungee jump into the gorge.
...MoreYes—particularly tourists who want to get off the beaten path. The town of Victoria Falls is definitely geared for international visitors, but the country is also filled with national parks that are ideal for safaris, and medieval ruins where you can learn about the country’s long history.
...MoreYes, it's generally safe as long as female travelers take precautions and research specific areas. Choose accommodations that have plenty of reviews, stick to busy areas, and do not flaunt cash or valuables. When possible, arrange transport through your accommodation or through a tour service.
...MoreIt depends. Zimbabwe tends to be more affordable than neighboring South Africa, although expect tourist prices in places like Victoria Falls. If you’re eating where the locals eat and staying in hostels, you can travel cheaply. However, you can pay for more luxury with posh nature lodges and all-inclusive safaris.
...MorePlan for at least three days in Zimbabwe, which gives you time to explore Victoria Falls and take a day trip to nearby Zambezi National Park. If you want to go on a longer safari, you’ll find tours running from three to seven days.
...MoreYes. Due to massive inflation and the fluctuation of the country’s Zimbabwean dollar, the US dollar is the dominant currency in Zimbabwe. It can be hard to find ATMs for cash, and many places don't take cards, so get cash before entering Zimbabwe. South African rand can also be used.
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