Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is a safari destination that often surprises travellers with just how much it has to offer. It’s home to some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife experiences, from the thunderous Victoria Falls to the vast wilderness of Hwange National Park. Hwange is the country’s flagship reserve and boasts one of the largest elephant populations on the continent, along with healthy numbers of lions, wild dogs, and other big game. Mana Pools, set along the banks of the Zambezi River, offers a more intimate, adventurous style of safari, with canoeing, walking safaris, and close-up wildlife encounters that feel truly wild. Zimbabwe’s guides are among the most highly trained in Africa, which adds real depth to every safari experience. Whether you’re exploring the floodplains of Mana, the dry savannahs of Hwange, or relaxing near the falls, Zimbabwe delivers a safari that is authentic, uncrowded, and deeply rewarding.
Lodges & Camps
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2. Speak to a Local Expert
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Frequently Asked Zimbabwe Questions:
What are the top safari destinations in Zimbabwe?
- The two standout parks are Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park. Hwange is the largest and most accessible, known for its massive elephant herds, lion prides, and excellent dry-season game viewing. Mana Pools, on the banks of the Zambezi River, is more remote and adventurous, famous for its canoe safaris, walking safaris, and dramatic scenery. Other great options include Matobo National Park, known for its rhino tracking and rock formations, and Gonarezhou in the southeast, a wild and less-traveled gem.
When is the best time to go on safari in Zimbabwe?
- The dry season, from June to October, is the best time for safari. During these months, vegetation thins out and animals congregate around water sources, making wildlife easier to spot. It’s also the ideal time to visit Victoria Falls if you want to combine safari with a bit of adventure or sightseeing. April and May offer cooler temperatures and lush scenery after the rains, though game can be harder to spot.
What kinds of safari experiences are available in Zimbabwe?
- Zimbabwe offers a good mix of traditional game drives, guided walking safaris, and water-based safaris. Mana Pools is one of the best places in Africa to go on foot or by canoe, giving travellers a unique perspective and a stronger connection to the environment. In Hwange, you’ll find classic 4×4 game drives, photographic hides, and some luxury camps offering fly-in safaris and multi-day itineraries.
Is it safe to travel in Zimbabwe for safari?
- Yes, safari travel in Zimbabwe is considered safe, especially when you’re visiting established parks and staying with reputable operators. The country has had political and economic challenges in the past, but tourism is well-regulated in the main safari areas. Zimbabwean guides are among the best trained in Africa, and safety is taken seriously during all safari activities.
How do Zimbabwe’s guides compare to other safari countries?
- Zimbabwean guides are widely regarded as some of the most knowledgeable and professional in Africa. The guide training process in Zimbabwe is one of the most rigorous on the continent, with written exams, field tests, and years of practical experience required before qualifying. This means safaris here often have a stronger educational component, and travellers benefit from guides who can interpret animal behavior, track wildlife, and share deep insights into the ecosystem.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
- Zimbabwe is home to all of the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino, though rhinos are mostly found in Matobo and private reserves. Hwange is famous for its large elephant herds, while Mana Pools is known for close encounters with elephants, hippos, and even predators on foot. You’ll also find wild dogs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and a wide variety of antelope species, along with over 600 bird species across the country.
Do I need vaccinations or malaria precautions for Zimbabwe?
- Travellers to Zimbabwe should be up to date on routine vaccinations and are advised to take malaria prophylaxis, especially when visiting during the wet season or spending time in lower-lying parks like Mana Pools or Hwange. Yellow fever vaccination is not required unless arriving from a country where it’s endemic. It’s also a good idea to use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets where provided.
Can I combine a Zimbabwe safari with other destinations?
- Yes, Zimbabwe pairs well with several nearby countries. Many visitors combine a Zimbabwe safari with a visit to Victoria Falls, often crossing over into Zambia to see the falls from both sides. It’s also easy to connect to safaris in Botswana or Namibia, particularly through the town of Victoria Falls, which acts as a regional travel hub. Regional flights and cross-border transfers make multi-country itineraries smooth and popular.