Zimbabwe, located in southern Africa, is a land rich in natural beauty and filled with captivating attractions. Although there are no direct flights from Los Angeles, you can reach Zimbabwe via cities like Johannesburg, Singapore, or Dubai. The high altitude and low humidity make it a comfortable destination to explore.
Tourism thrives in Zimbabwe, with highlights like Victoria Falls, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and national parks. Most attractions are easily accessible from the city centers. The country also offers thrilling safari tours where you can observe wildlife up close. Here are six must-visit spots in Zimbabwe to experience its incredible nature and history.
1. Victoria Falls (Matabeleland North)
One of the world's three greatest waterfalls, Victoria Falls, sits on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts a width of approximately 1,700 meters and a height of 108 meters, offering a breathtaking spectacle.
During the rainy season, the waterfall reaches its peak flow, creating a spray so intense it's like heavy rain, with the roar audible from miles away. Locally referred to as "The Smoke That Thunders," its sheer power inspires awe. A natural rock pool called Devil's Pool, near the edge of the falls, offers a thrilling experience for adventurous visitors—though extreme caution is advised.
Name: Victoria Falls
Address: Victoria Falls 10101, Zimbabwe
Official/Related Website URL: http://www.victoriafalls-guide.net/
2. Matobo Hills (Bulawayo)
Matobo Hills, located south of Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, Bulawayo, is a vast granite landscape featuring unique rock formations and valleys. Known for its balancing rocks, the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003.
The area is rich in history, once home to the ancient San people, whose rock paintings date back 13,000 years. Today, Matobo remains a sacred site for local communities. The hills also form Zimbabwe's oldest national park, where visitors may encounter wildlife like rhinos, giraffes, and zebras during their exploration.
Name: Matobo Hills
Address: Matobo Hills, Zimbabwe
Official/Related Website URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/306
3. Hwange National Park (Matabeleland North)
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's largest park, located in the northwest near the Botswana border. It is also the country's oldest wildlife reserve, with over 65 years of history.
Home to more than 70,000 elephants, Hwange is also a sanctuary for rare species like wild dogs, white and black rhinos, and sable antelopes. With over 400 species of birds, it’s a paradise for bird watchers.
The park features artificial watering holes to support its arid ecosystem, making safari tours the ideal way to observe its diverse wildlife.
Name: Hwange National Park
Address: Hwange National Park, Dete, Zimbabwe
Official/Related Website URL: http://www.zimparks.org/index.php/parks-overview/national/hwange
4. Mana Pools National Park (Mashonaland West)
Located in the Zambezi River floodplains, Mana Pools National Park is a unique wetland that transforms with the seasons. During the rainy season, it becomes a lake, while the dry season reveals vast grasslands. The best time to visit is from June to October.
Mana Pools is ideal for walking safaris, as the region has fewer predators. Visitors can see elephants, buffalos, hippos, and crocodiles gathering near water sources, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Name: Mana Pools National Park
Address: Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
Official/Related Website URL: http://www.zimparks.org/index.php/parks-overview/national/mana-pools
5. Great Zimbabwe Ruins (Masvingo)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Zimbabwe Ruins are a remarkable stone city located on the Zimbabwe Plateau. Built by the Shona people in the 13th century, the city thrived on gold trade and is one of Africa’s most significant archaeological sites.
The ruins feature intricate stonework, including the Great Enclosure, a large elliptical wall, and remnants of royal palaces. The sheer size and sophistication of the site make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Name: Great Zimbabwe Ruins
Address: Great Zimbabwe National Monument, Zimbabwe
Official/Related Website URL: http://www.greatzimbabweruins.com/
6. Khami Ruins (Bulawayo)
Located west of Bulawayo, the Khami Ruins are another UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Torwa State, which flourished from the 15th to 17th centuries after the fall of Great Zimbabwe.
The site reveals advanced masonry techniques, with unique brick-like stone constructions that make it a valuable archaeological treasure. Artifacts such as Chinese porcelain, German ceramics, and Portuguese trade goods unearthed here highlight its historical significance.
Name: Khami Ruins
Address: Khami Ruins National Monument, Zimbabwe
Official/Related Website URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/365
◎ Summary
This guide showcased six must-visit tourist spots in Zimbabwe. While Zimbabwe may seem far and unfamiliar, its natural beauty, including Victoria Falls and its rich history, is worth the journey. Explore the ancient ruins and national parks through organized tours for an efficient and enriching experience.
Immerse yourself in Zimbabwe’s incredible nature and history for a truly unforgettable adventure!