Zimbabwe
THE JEWEL OF SOUTHERN AFRICA
Let your adventurous spirit soar! Zimbabwe beckons with unparalleled safari experiences. Witness the breathtaking majesty of Victoria Falls, the planet’s widest single sheet of cascading water. Along the mighty Zambezi River, create lasting memories spotting playful hippos, majestic fish eagles, and vibrant herds of antelope. Imagine the thrill of observing a magnificent elephant quenching its thirst at a nearby waterhole, all set against the stunning backdrop of an African sunset.
OVERVIEW
Zimbabwe, officially the Republic of Zimbabwe, is a landlocked country located south of the equator. It shares borders with Zambia, Mozambique, South Africa, and Botswana. Spanning 390,757 km², this nation boasts diverse landscapes, rich history, and a wealth of natural beauty.
Zimbabwe’s diverse geography is defined by three major regions: the Inland Plateau, dominated by peneplains and extending between Harare and Bulawayo; the Highveld, rising to an average of 1,200 meters with cooler temperatures and vibrant flora; and the Escarpment, a dramatic descent to the Lowveld and the Kalahari Basin. The climate is subtropical, influenced by Zimbabwe’s elevation. Rainy seasons run from October to April, with eastern highlands receiving the heaviest rainfall due to monsoon winds. Cooler, dry winters from May to August provide the perfect weather for exploring.
HERITAGE
The landlocked country of Zimbabwe lies to the south of the equator and it borders Zambia to the north-west, Mozambique to the north-east, South Africa and Botswana to the south. It covers 390,757 km², of which 3910 km² are covered by water. The Zambezi River is the northern border of Zimbabwe.
The landscape can be divided into three geographical regions: the inland plateau, the Highveld and the Escarpment. The 1,200 m high inland plateau takes up the majority of the country. The peneplains extend between the cities of Harare and Bulawayo. The landscape sinks to the west into the Kalahari basin. The plateau falls away in the north and south towards the Lowveld.
Zimbabwe has several major tourist attractions. Victoria Falls on the Zambezi, which are shared with Zambia, are located in the north west of Zimbabwe. The Victoria Falls National Park is also in this area and is one of the eight main national parks in Zimbabwe, the largest of which is Hwange National Park.
The Eastern Highlands are a series of mountainous areas near the border with Mozambique. The highest peak in Zimbabwe, Mount Nyangani at 2,593 m (8,507 ft) is located here as well as the Bvumba Mountains and the Nyanga National Park. World’s View is in these mountains and it is from here that places as far away as 60–70 km (37–43 mi) are visible and, on clear days, the town of Rusape can be seen.
Zimbabwe is unusual in Africa in that there are a number of ancient and medieval ruined cities built in a unique dry stone style. Among the most famous of these are the Great Zimbabwe ruins in Masvingo. Other ruins include Khami Ruins, Zimbabwe, Dhlo-Dhlo and Naletale.
The Matobo Hills are an area of granite kopjes and wooded valleys commencing some 35 km (22 mi) south of Bulawayo in southern Zimbabwe. The hills were formed over 2,000 million years ago with granite being forced to the surface, then being eroded to produce smooth “whaleback dwalas” and broken kopjes, strewn with boulders and interspersed with thickets of vegetation. Mzilikazi, founder of the Ndebele nation, gave the area its name, meaning ‘Bald Heads’. They have become a tourist attraction due to their ancient shapes and local wildlife.
WEATHER AND CLIMATE
Zimbabwe, situated in Southern Africa, enjoys a generally pleasant, sub-tropical climate, moderated by its elevation. The country experiences three distinct seasons, each offering a different appeal for visitors:
Cool Dry Season / Winter (May to August):
Characteristics: This period is characterized by clear, sunny days and cool, often cold, nights and early mornings. Rainfall is very rare to non-existent, and humidity is low. The landscape becomes drier and less dense.
Temperature: Daytime temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, especially in higher altitude areas, to between 5°C and 12°C (41°F to 54°F), with occasional ground frost in some areas.
Impact on Tourism: This is widely considered the best time for wildlife viewing as vegetation thins out and animals gather around dwindling water sources, making them easier to spot. Hwange National Park, in particular, becomes a prime destination during these months. Victoria Falls has clearer views with less spray.
Hot Dry Season (September to October/Early November):
Characteristics: Temperatures steadily increase, becoming very hot, especially in October, which is often the warmest month of the year. The landscape is parched, and water sources are at their lowest.
Temperature: Daytime highs can range from 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F), with lower-lying areas like the Zambezi Valley often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Nights remain warm, typically 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F).
Impact on Tourism: Despite the heat, game viewing remains excellent due to the high concentration of wildlife at waterholes. It’s an intense safari experience. Victoria Falls will have lower water levels, offering good visibility of the gorge and enabling activities like swimming in Devil’s Pool (seasonal).
Wet Rainy Season / Summer (November to April):
Characteristics: This season brings warmer temperatures and higher humidity, with the arrival of frequent, often heavy, afternoon thunderstorms. The country transforms into a lush, green landscape, sometimes referred to as the “Green Season.”
Temperature: Average daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with nighttime lows between 14°C and 19°C (57°F to 66°F).
Impact on Tourism: While game viewing can be more challenging due to dense vegetation, this period is a birdwatcher’s paradise as migratory birds arrive and resident species are in breeding plumage. The lush scenery offers fantastic photographic opportunities. Victoria Falls is at its most powerful and voluminous from late February to May, creating immense spray. Some remote roads in national parks might become challenging, and some lodges may close during the peak of the rains (January-February). This season also typically offers lower safari rates.
THINGS TO DO
Zimbabwe offers an incredible array of experiences for every type of traveler. Here’s a “bucket list” for the ultimate Zimbabwean adventure:
The Majestic Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya):
• Witness the “Smoke that Thunders”: Experience the sheer power and beauty of the world’s largest curtain of falling water.
• Adrenaline Activities: Bungee jump from the Victoria Falls Bridge, white-water raft the mighty Zambezi River’s rapids, zip-line across the gorge, or take a thrilling helicopter “Flight of Angels” for aerial views.
• Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a relaxed sundowner cruise on the Upper Zambezi, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife.
• Guided Tour of the Falls: Walk the rainforest trails for various viewpoints, getting soaked by the spray.
2. World-Class Wildlife Safaris:
• Hwange National Park: Zimbabwe’s largest and most famous park, renowned for its massive elephant herds (often seen at pumped waterholes), lions, and diverse antelope. Offers excellent game drives, walking safaris, and night drives in private concessions.
• Mana Pools National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its unique walking safaris (often without a guide, though guides are recommended for safety and insight), canoe safaris on the Zambezi, and incredible predator-prey interactions, especially with wild dogs and elephants.
• Gonarezhou National Park: Zimbabwe’s second-largest park in the southeast, offering rugged terrain, the iconic Chilojo Cliffs, and a true wilderness experience.
3. Ancient History & Culture:
• Great Zimbabwe National Monument: Explore the awe-inspiring ruins of an ancient African city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a powerful symbol of pre-colonial African civilisation.
• Matobo Hills National Park: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its dramatic granite kopjes (balancing rocks), ancient San (Bushman) rock art, and unique wildlife, including a high concentration of rhinos (often offering walking rhino tracking experiences). Cecil John Rhodes’ grave is also located here.
• Khami Ruins: Near Bulawayo, these are impressive stone ruins that were the capital of the Kingdom of Butua.
4. Scenic Beauty & Outdoor Adventures:
• Lake Kariba: The world’s largest man-made lake, offering house-boating, fishing (especially for Tiger Fish), sunset cruises, and game viewing along its shores (including Matusadona National Park).
• Eastern Highlands (Nyanga, Vumba, Chimanimani): A mountainous region offering cooler temperatures, lush landscapes, hiking trails (including Mount Nyangani, Zimbabwe’s highest peak), waterfalls (Mutarazi Falls, Bridal Veil Falls), and botanical gardens.
• Chinhoyi Caves: Explore these unique limestone and dolomite caves with their striking Sleeping Pool.
5. Cultural Immersion:
• Experience Local Culture: Visit local communities, engage in cultural tours, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Zimbabwean people.
Boma Dinner & Drum Show (Victoria Falls): A popular evening experience offering traditional food and entertainment.
Monkey Trails can help you discover this blend of natural wonders, thrilling adventures, rich history, and cultural experiences that define a visit to Zimbabwe.
TRAVEL SUGGESTIONS
Zimbabwe is an all year round destination. To fully experience Zimbabwe, plan your visit between May and October when wildlife viewing is at its peak. Explore iconic attractions like Victoria Falls, Great Zimbabwe, Mana Pools and Hwange National Park.
For adventure, try white-water rafting on the Zambezi or hiking in the Eastern Highlands. Don’t miss local markets to discover handcrafted souvenirs. Always carry cash for rural areas, dress modestly, and respect local customs for a rewarding journey.
FAQs
Best time to Visit
- For prime wildlife viewing and clear, dry weather: June to October (with September and October being very hot but excellent for sightings).
- For high water at Victoria Falls and lush scenery (with fewer crowds): February to April.
- For birdwatching and photographic opportunities of lush landscapes: November to March (Green Season).
1. Dry Season (May to October):
Best for Wildlife Viewing: This is the peak safari season. As water sources become scarce, animals congregate around permanent rivers and waterholes, making them much easier to spot. Vegetation thins out, further improving visibility.
Hwange National Park: Excellent during this time, especially for elephants that gather in huge numbers around pumped waterholes.
Mana Pools National Park: Exceptional game viewing as animals are drawn to the Zambezi River.
Weather: Generally mild to warm days with clear, sunny skies. Nights and early mornings can be quite cold, especially in June and July, so warm layers are essential for game drives.
Victoria Falls: The water flow at Victoria Falls is lower towards the end of the dry season (September/October/November), which offers clearer views of the gorges and less spray, making activities like white-water rafting more intense. However, it's at its most spectacular when the water is high (February-June).
Crowds: This is peak tourist season, especially for safaris, so popular areas like Victoria Falls and top safari lodges can be busier. Booking well in advance is recommended.2. Shoulder Seasons (April & November):
April: A beautiful transitional month. The rains have mostly subsided, leaving lush, green landscapes. Wildlife viewing is good and improving as the bush dries. Temperatures are comfortable, and crowds are manageable before the peak dry season. Victoria Falls is still impressive with high water levels.
November: This is the beginning of the "green season." It can be unpredictable, with the first rains starting. Wildlife viewing is still good, but animals may start to disperse as water becomes more available away from main sources. Temperatures begin to rise and can be very hot, especially in the lower-lying areas like Mana Pools, before the full rains bring relief.
3. Wet/Green Season (November/December to March):Wildlife Viewing: More challenging as vegetation is thick and animals are dispersed due to widespread water sources. However, it's a great time to see:
Newborn Animals: Many species give birth, offering charming sightings of young.
Birdwatching: This is the best time for birding, with many migratory birds present in their breeding plumage.
Weather: Hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms that are usually short but can be dramatic. Roads, especially in certain areas like Mana Pools, can become challenging for 4x4s.
Victoria Falls: The Falls are at their fullest and most spectacular, especially from February to June, due to the heavy rainfall upstream. The sheer volume of water creates immense spray, which can sometimes obscure views.
Crowds & Prices: This is considered the low season, meaning fewer tourists and often lower rates for accommodation and safaris.
How to access Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is accessible from various international destinations primarily via air travel, with several key airports serving as entry points.
Main International Airports:
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare, the capital, is the largest and busiest airport, handling the majority of international arrivals.
Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) is crucial for tourists aiming to visit Victoria Falls and nearby safari areas directly.
Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ) in Bulawayo, the country's second-largest city, also handles some international and regional flights.
International Air Connections:
From Europe: Travelers from Europe typically fly to Zimbabwe with connecting flights through major hubs. Common airlines include Brussels Airlines and Lufthansa, often connecting via cities like Brussels, Frankfurt, or other European gateways. Ethiopian Airlines and Qatar Airways also provide strong connectivity via their hubs in Addis Ababa and Doha, respectively.
From North America: Direct flights from North America to Zimbabwe are not common. Travelers usually connect through major European or African hubs. Lufthansa and Ethiopian Airlines are frequently used, with layovers in cities such as New York, Washington D.C., Addis Ababa, or European cities.
From Asia: Airlines such as Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, and Qatar Airways offer routes from various Asian cities to Zimbabwe, with connections typically through Dubai, Addis Ababa, or Doha.
From Africa: Zimbabwe is well-connected to other African nations. South African Airways, Airlink, Fastjet, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Air Botswana operate frequent direct flights from regional hubs like Johannesburg (South Africa), Cape Town (South Africa), Nairobi (Kenya), Lusaka (Zambia), and Gaborone (Botswana). These connections are vital for travelers combining Zimbabwe with multi-country African itineraries.
Entry Requirements (Visas and Passport):
Passport Validity: A passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date is generally recommended, along with at least two blank pages for entry stamps. If transiting through South Africa, ensure you have sufficient blank pages as South Africa often requires two consecutive blank pages for each transit.
Visas: Zimbabwe has a three-category visa regime:
Category A: Countries whose citizens do not require a visa.
Category B: Countries whose citizens can obtain a visa upon arrival at any legal port of entry (airports or land borders).
Category C: Countries whose citizens must obtain a visa in advance through the online e-visa platform (www.evisa.gov.zw) or a Zimbabwean embassy/consulate.
KAZA Univisa: For travelers planning to visit both Zimbabwe and Zambia, the KAZA Univisa is a convenient option. It allows for multiple entries between the two countries for up to 30 days and often includes day trips to Botswana via specific border crossings.
Other Requirements: Visitors are generally required to have a return ticket (or proof of funds to purchase one) and sufficient funds to cover their stay.
It is highly advisable for all international travelers to check their specific visa requirements and any other entry regulations with the official Zimbabwean Department of Immigration or their nearest Zimbabwean embassy/consulate well in advance of their trip, as policies can change.
VISA and General information
Capital: Harare
Population: 16 million
Languages: The official language is English, with Shona and Sindebele dialects.
Time: GMT+2
Dialling code: +263
Voltage: 220 /240 AC, 50 Hz
Internet: Starlink and local providers
Visas
If you are not staying for longer than six months, you enter Zimbabwe with a minimum of formalities. All you need is a valid passport with a valid visa depending on which category of the visa regime you fall under, a return ticket to your country (or enough money to buy one), and sufficient funds to cover your stay in Zimbabwe.
Money
The mostly acceptable means of payment in most establishments is US $ based or its equivalent. Travelers Cheques and International credit cards are widely accepted. Avoid street/border money changers. Instead it is advisable to change all your money or travelers cheques at Commercial banks, hotels or registered bureau de change.
More information here:
https://www.evisa.gov.zw/
More information here:
https://www.evisa.gov.zw/
Security
Zimbabweans are known for their hospitality and friendliness towards each other and visitors alike. Although all Zimbabweans are very helpful it is always advisable to be cautious when dealing with strangers. Police officers are very helpful and are easily identified by their uniforms. Like everywhere in the world valuables should always be safeguarded or left in the hotel safe box. If you do not know where to obtain a certain service or you are not sure always contact the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, Police Post or the hotel information desk.
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September 10, 2018
