Zimbabwe

A unique opportunity to safari by foot or canoe 

Landlocked southern nation Zimbabwe borders Botswana, Mozambique, South Africa and Zambia. On its northern edge flows the Limpopo River, while to the South runs the Zambezi where visitors can experience some of the best game viewing in sub-Saharan Africa. In terms of natural landscapes the country has both lowland savannah grasses and mountainous areas, Zimbabwe’s climate is tropical with regional variations. Although often known for its history of political problems, the country has seen increased safety in recent years and is getting back on track as a premium safari destination. Zimbabwe offers a wide-range of adrenaline adventures and provides the unique opportunity to carry out walking, boat and canoe safaris as well as traditional vehicle safaris. Zimbabwe’s population are hospitable and hardworking and the country is home to some of the best safari guides on the continent. 

Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world, is one of Zimbabwe’s key attractions. Known as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’, this mass of cascading waters offers daredevils a wealth of activities including bungee jumping, abseiling, white water rafting and river boarding. Those who prefer to observe from a far can helicopter over the falls, taking in the spectacular wonder of the Zambezi in all its glory. Situated at the northernmost point of Zimbabwe straddling the Zambian border is Mana Pools, an unmissable riverine wilderness on the Zambezi River. Mana pools are a collection of beautiful river banks, pools and floodplains framed by forests of baobab, ebony and fig trees. Mana National Park and Hwange National Park are both wildlife havens; home to huge elephant herds and spectacular spots to catch sight of the rare and endangered wild dog. For a scenic safari visit the Eastern Highlands, with stunning mountains and green lush forest, visitors can take gentle walking routes and spot an astounding number of birds. 

Those seeking activity filled days should travel to Lake Kariba, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. The lake offers a wide range of activities such as sport fishing, boating and water sports and is fantastic for birdwatching with cormorants and eagles a plenty. Alternatively the Matobo Hills National Park is famous for its granite boulders and rock art, where visitors can trek Rhino by foot - a truly once in a lifetime experience. 

Easy to manage, luxurious and beautiful  

As tourism has recovered new lodges have sprung across the country. Zimbabwe’s luxury tented camps and safari lodges are generally small in size offering exclusive safari experiences undisturbed by many other visitors. For the most part travel is relatively easy and convenient between Zimbabwe’s national parks. Zimbabwe is highly recommended for a first time safari experience.