Adventure Zimbabwe

Observe wild animals roaming the vast savanna, be awed by natural wonders like the roaring Victoria Falls, feel the heartfelt hospitality of the locals, and explore the adventurous wilderness of Zimbabwe.

Adventure Africa - who among you has not dreamed of it? This exciting continent offers a particularly fascinating country: Zimbabwe in southern Africa. Mainly due to political and economic issues, this once-popular tourist destination has disappeared from the bucket lists of many travelers. However, things seem to be changing, as Zimbabwe is gradually becoming more appealing and has even secured third place on Lonely Planet's list of the Top 10 Travel Destinations for 2019. I'll reveal to you why you should give this country a chance, what there is to see, and what you should keep in mind when traveling to Zimbabwe. Stay tuned!

But where exactly is Zimbabwe located? You can find it nestled between South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Mozambique, making it a great addition to an African round trip. If you are flying in from the United States, you can choose between the airports of Harare, Victoria Falls, or Bulawayo. Whether you're arriving by land from another African country or by air, in both cases, you will need a tourist visa. As always, you can get more detailed information about entry requirements and safety tips from the Foreign Office.

Best time for:

Victoria Falls: End of the rainy season, February-March

Devils Pool: Only during the dry season, September-December

The most famous sight in Zimbabwe is undoubtedly the unique Victoria Falls. They are definitely among the most spectacular waterfalls in the world and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. When an incredible 3,000 tons of water per second plunge from a height of 100 meters, it will definitely take your breath away. Do you love a special thrill? Then treat yourself to a relaxing bath in the Devils Pool, a small rock pool at the edge of the falls that cascades fiercely just inches before you. However, I bet that even just the sight of the Victoria Falls from the safe shore or from the Victoria Bridge will make your heart race.

Guru Tip: During an exciting helicopter flight, you'll get the best view of the waterfall. This moment you will definitely never forget!

Here, you can expect pure wilderness and an incredible variety of species. You might even see wild zebras, giraffes, lions, hippos, and massive herds of elephants roaming the plains or lounging at waterholes. Some travelers venture into the park on their own, while there are also guided safaris where your tour guide will lead you to the best spots and tell you all about the wild animals.

Also near the border with Zambia, just north of Victoria Falls, lies Lake Kariba, formed by the dammed Zambezi River. It is the second-largest reservoir in the world, ten times larger than Lake Constance and has even caused earthquakes due to its incredible weight. Board a sightseeing boat and listen to the stories of local guides. Here too, you can spot wild animals along the shore, as the waters are home to fish that attract Nile crocodiles.

Information and Tips:

Location: 4 hrs south of Harare

Entrance Fee: $25

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 8 AM - 5 PM, Sat 8 AM - 12 PM

Somewhat remote but still worth seeing is Great Zimbabwe, the former capital of the Munhumutapa Empire. This ruin site, one of the oldest stone constructions in Africa, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and was painstakingly built nearly 1,000 years ago without any machines and later largely destroyed. Nevertheless, you can now wander through the expansive grounds and the labyrinth of stone walls that seem to blend with massive boulders and trees. Perhaps during your tour, you'll even encounter a lively gang of monkeys.

Many tourists arriving in Harare immediately set off for a safari in the surrounding national parks, as the city is admittedly not a sight to behold. However, if you have some time to spare, you should seize the opportunity to take at least a brief glimpse of the city. For example, you can find botanical gardens, art galleries, the National Hero Acre, and museums that provide insights into the history and the local Shona culture.

Guru Tip: If you want to get up close to Africa's wildlife while supporting a good cause, you should definitely visit the Wild is Life animal sanctuary and the Zimbabwe Elephant Nursery in Harare!

From Harare as a starting point, you can discover exciting places. One of them is the Chinhoyi Caves National Park, about 120 kilometers away. There, you'll encounter a deep gorge concealing a limestone cave filled with cobalt blue water. Let yourself be captivated by the magical atmosphere of the cave, or even venture into its depths through a diving experience to explore even more chambers of the cave. In the incredibly clear water, you'll have the best visibility and comfortable temperatures year-round.

Here, you can marvel at large, round boulders that seem to have been stacked by invisible hands. The true adventurers among you can join a Rhino Walking Tour in the park and go on a rhino safari. Sneak through the bush with a ranger, follow fresh tracks, and then carefully approach the endangered giants who graze peacefully in the bushes.

Surely you have heard of the ruthless poaching that threatens the survival of white rhinos. Especially during times of extreme corruption and poverty, they were hunted for their precious horns. Fortunately, the situation for rhinos has improved, partly because they were temporarily protected by armed troops and their horns were removed by wildlife protectors to make them less attractive to hunters. Should tourists not just leave the rhinos alone? In fact, the safaris offered today are designed to educate you about the animals and their protection while approaching them with care and without disturbing them. Typically, a portion of the proceeds from tours also supports animal conservation.

Not far from Bulawayo and Matobo National Park, you'll find another animal rescue facility that cares for orphaned, elderly, and injured animals.

Information and Tips:

Location: 30 Km from Bulawayo

Entrance Fee: $5, Children $3

Opening Hours: Tue-Sun 10 AM - 5 PM

During your visit, you will receive a thorough tour of the refuge and can learn exciting facts about the residents and animal conservation. The shelter was founded by a former safari ranger and his wife, who appreciate every visitor who supports their work. If you have a little more time, you can even volunteer and help care for the residents.

Do not be discouraged by the circumstances. You will actually notice that the locals are happy about your visit and eager to show you their country. For them, travelers represent a sign of hope and a chance to correct economic difficulties.

Zimbabwe is truly an incredibly versatile country with much to discover. The unimaginable expanses, natural wonders like the Victoria Falls, quirky rock formations, and pure wilderness will enchant you. Immerse yourself in this exciting country, meet its open-hearted residents, and encounter animals that you otherwise might only know from the zoo or television. Off to Africa!