Zimbabwe

The Soul of Safari

A Zimbabwe safari is an invitation to experience the continent’s original safari soul. This is a land of staggering natural beauty and profound history, a wilderness that feels both timeless and thrillingly alive. For decades, it has been a destination for safari connoisseurs, not for fleeting trends, but for the sheer quality and authenticity of the experience it offers.

A journey here is a deeper, more intimate connection with the wild, far from the well-trodden paths. A cornerstone of the Zimbabwe safari holidays we design is the unparalleled expertise of the local guides, whose rigorous training is the best on the continent. They transform a simple game drive into a masterclass in the bush, unlocking a world of immersive activities from tracking lions on foot to canoeing the mighty Zambezi. This is a journey that is not merely observed, but deeply felt.

Ready to embark on your next adventure?

Top Regions and Attractions

A journey through Zimbabwe is a journey through a world of wonders, from the raw power of a natural wonder to the silent grandeur of an ancient empire. The Zimbabwe safari tours we craft are designed to connect you to these iconic and diverse landscapes, each offering a unique and authentic chapter of the African story. Below, we introduce the crown jewels of Zimbabwe.

Victoria Falls

The Smoke that Thunders

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is where the mighty Zambezi River plunges into the Batoka Gorge. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke that Thunders”), it is Africa’s undisputed Adventure Capital, offering everything from serene sunset cruises to heart-pounding bungee jumps against one of the planet’s most spectacular backdrops.

Hwange National Park

Land of Giants

Zimbabwe’s largest national park, Hwange National Park is a sprawling wilderness legendary for its colossal elephant population, with estimates of up to 60,000 making it one of Africa’s most important elephant sanctuaries. During the dry season, its waterholes attract immense herds in a wildlife spectacle of staggering proportions.

Mana Pools National Park

A Walker's Eden

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mana Pools National Park is an ethereal realm of majestic trees and the life-giving Zambezi River. This park is celebrated for offering some of the most intimate and active safari experiences in Africa, where the freedom to track elephants and lions on foot with an expert guide is paramount.

Great Zimbabwe

Echoes of an Ancient Empire

The largest ancient stone structure in sub-Saharan Africa, the Great Zimbabwe National Monument is a testament to a sophisticated pre-colonial civilization. Flourishing between the 11th and 15th centuries, this was the capital of a major trading empire. Exploring its imposing dry-stone walls is a profound journey back in time.

Zimbabwe Wildlife

An Eden of Biodiversity

Zimbabwe’s remarkable biodiversity is rooted in its vast, protected landscapes and a pioneering conservation ethos. A premier Big Five destination, the country is particularly celebrated for several key species that define its unique wildlife character. On a safari with us, you’ll experience thrilling and often close-up encounters with these icons of the bush.

Elephants

Hwange National Park is home to one of the world’s largest elephant populations. The dry season offers almost guaranteed sightings of massive herds gathering at the waterholes.

African Wild Dogs

Zimbabwe is a crucial stronghold for the endangered African wild dog. Mana Pools offers the rare and privileged opportunity to track these fascinating predators on foot.

Rhinos

The Matobo Hills are home to a phenomenal conservation success story. We can arrange a powerful and humbling experience of rhino tracking for both black and white rhino on foot.

Big Cats

Matusadona National Park is renowned for its powerful lion prides that hunt buffalo along the Lake Kariba shoreline, while the Matobo Hills have what is believed to be the world’s densest leopard population.

Sable Antelope

See the magnificent national animal of Zimbabwe, the elegant sable antelope, with its glossy black coat and dramatic, scythe-like horns, in parks like Hwange.

At a Glance

Capital City

Harare

Official Language

16, with English, Shona, & Ndebele most common

Currency

US Dollar (USD) is the primary currency for travellers

Key Safari Airports

Victoria Falls (VFA), Harare (HRE)

Fascinating Facts

The World's Largest Waterfall

By combined width and height, Victoria Falls is the largest sheet of falling water on the planet.

Ancient City

Great Zimbabwe is the largest ancient stone structure south of the Sahara Desert.

Record for Languages

Zimbabwe holds a Guinness World Record for the country with the most official languages (16).

Highest Literacy in Africa

The nation proudly boasts the highest literacy rate on the continent, at over 92%.

Travel Essentials

Visas

Citizens of many countries (including the USA & UK) can obtain a visa upon arrival. The KAZA Univisa is an excellent option for visiting both Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Health

The Zambezi Valley and Victoria Falls are high-risk malaria areas. Prophylactic medication is strongly recommended. Please consult a travel doctor.

Currency

The US Dollar is the main currency for all tourism. It is essential to bring sufficient cash in small denominations for visas, tips, and local purchases.

Zimbabwe Safaris

Journeys to the Wild Soul

We have crafted a selection of Zimbabwe safari packages that immerse you in the authentic soul of this wild country. Explore our classic Zimbabwe safari holidays that combine a safari in Zimbabwe with Victoria Falls, or contact our experts to design a bespoke adventure.

Waterfalls to Waterways Zimbabwe & Botswana Safari Experience

Where Rivers Meet Wild Zambia & Zimbabwe Experience

Icons of Zimbabwe Falls, Wildlife & Wilderness

Activities & Experiences

Our Zimbabwe safari tours are active, immersive journeys into the wild. We focus on experiences that go beyond the vehicle to connect you with the bush on a deeper, more primal level.

The Walking Safari

This is the quintessential Zimbabwean experience. Join our expert guides in Mana Pools to track big game on foot, engaging all your senses. This is the ultimate walking safari.

Canoe & Boat Safaris

Experience the wild from a different perspective by gliding along the Zambezi River. Canoe trips in Mana Pools offer serene yet thrilling encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and elephants at the water’s edge.

Victoria Falls Adventures

The ultimate Victoria Falls tour is an adrenaline rush. We can arrange for you to swim to the edge of the abyss in Devil’s Pool (on the Zambia side, seasonal), take the “Flight of the Angels” helicopter tour, or brave the world-class white-water rafting.

Best Time to Visit

Our experts can help you decide the best time to visit Zimbabwe, as each season offers a distinct and rewarding experience.

Dry Season

May - October

This is the peak season and best for wildlife viewing. As water sources dry up, animals congregate in huge numbers around rivers and waterholes. The weather is sunny and mild, though it gets very hot by October.

Green Season

November - April

This is a magical time for photographers and birdwatchers. The bush transforms into a vibrant paradise, it’s the season of new life with many baby animals, and migratory birds arrive. You will also find lower rates and fewer visitors.

Victoria Falls Flow

The best time to visit Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe for the clearest views is from July to October when the water level is lower and the spray is less obstructive. For the most thunderous power, visit from February to May.

16, with English, Shona, & Ndebele most common

FAQ

Why are Zimbabwean guides considered the best?

The country has the most rigorous and lengthy guide training program in Africa. To become a fully licensed Professional Guide can take up to seven years of practical exams and intense study, ensuring an unparalleled level of expertise, safety, and interpretive skill.

Is Zimbabwe a Big Five destination?

Yes. Zimbabwe offers excellent viewing of four of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo). Black rhino were successfully reintroduced into North Luangwa (Zambia), but in Zimbabwe, the best place to see them is in Matobo National Park, where you can track them on foot.

How much does a Zimbabwe safari cost?

The Zimbabwe safari cost reflects its exclusive, low-density tourism model. While not a budget destination, it offers incredible value for a high-quality, uncrowded experience. The cost for a luxury safari in Zimbabwe varies by season and choice of lodge.

What is the accommodation like?

From a luxurious Zimbabwe safari lodge in Hwange to a classic tented camp in Mana Pools, accommodation is exceptional. We partner with properties like the famed Elephant Camp near Victoria Falls, renowned for their remote locations, expert guiding, and ability to immerse you in the wilderness without sacrificing comfort.