Parks, gardens, nature reserves, scenic walks, and wildlife
Set in Southern Africa, Zimbabwe is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering diverse landscapes ranging from lush gardens to expansive wildlife reserves.
Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park are top choices for wildlife viewing, hosting large populations of elephants, lions, and rare African wild dogs.
Hwange, located about 100 km from Victoria Falls, is the largest park in Zimbabwe, known for its immense elephant herds. Mana Pools, situated along the Zambezi River, offers distinctive walking safaris and canoe trips, allowing for close encounters with diverse wildlife. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ideal for spotting hippos and crocodiles.
The Eastern Highlands offer impressive hiking trails, while Harare's National Botanic Gardens showcase a wide variety of indigenous plant species.
The Eastern Highlands, near the border with Mozambique, feature the Nyanga and Chimanimani mountains. Hike to Mount Nyangani, Zimbabwe's highest peak, or see the impressive Bridal Veil Falls in Chimanimani. In Harare, the National Botanic Gardens provide a peaceful escape with over 900 hectares of endemic and exotic plants.
March to May is ideal for witnessing Victoria Falls at its fullest, following the rainy season when water flow is at its peak.
During this time, the waterfall's thunderous roar and mist create a spectacular sight. However, if you prefer less mist and better visibility for photography, visit between June and August, when the flow is slightly reduced but still impressive. Victoria Falls is accessible from both Zimbabwe and Zambia, but the Zimbabwean side offers more comprehensive views.
Mutare, located 270 km east of Harare, serves as a gateway to the Eastern Highlands. The region's average temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C annually. Accommodation in Mutare starts at approximately ZWL$7,000 per night, with attractions like the Bvumba Mountains offering hiking trails and scenic views.
Microlight flights over Victoria Falls depart from Livingstone, Zambia, just 10 km from the falls. A 15-minute flight costs approximately ZWL$12,000, while a 30-minute flight is ZWL$22,000. Temperatures in the area can reach up to 35°C during the summer months of November to March, making for a warm aerial adventure.
Night game drives in Hwange National Park, just 200 km from Harare, reveal wildlife like lions and leopards active at night. Prices for guided night drives start at around ZWL$5,000 per person, and temperatures can drop to 10°C in June and July, making warm clothing essential.
Lake Kariba, stretching 280 kilometers, is home to abundant tiger fish and houseboat rentals starting at ZWL 5,000 per night. Visitors can enjoy daily temperatures averaging 30°C from September to November, making it an ideal time for sunset cruises on Africa's largest man-made lake, created in 1959.
Mana Pools National Park, established in 1963, covers 2,500 square kilometers along the Zambezi River. Canoeing safaris start at $50 USD per person for half-day trips, while a full-day guided safari can cost around $150 USD. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 35°C, depending on the season.
Hwange National Park, 100 km west of Harare, covers 14,651 sq km and charges ZWL 20 per entry. The Great Zimbabwe Ruins, dating back to the 11th century, lie 300 km southeast and have an entrance fee of ZWL 75, showcasing the country’s rich outdoor heritage.
The Zimbabwe Bird sculptures, dating back to the 11th century, were discovered at the Great Zimbabwe ruins, approximately 250 kilometers from Harare. Entry to this UNESCO World Heritage Site costs $15 for international visitors, and guided tours are available for about $10, enhancing the understanding of their historical significance.
In Zimbabwe's national parks, camping fees range from $15 to $30 USD per night, depending on the park. Hwange National Park, covering 14,650 square kilometers, features over 100 species of mammals. The average temperature in summer reaches 32°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities from March to October.
Lake Kariba, measuring 223 km long and 40 km wide, is a prime location for tiger fishing, with catches weighing up to 15 kg. Fishing charters typically start at ZWL$ 5,000 for a half-day trip. The best fishing season runs from August to December when water temperatures reach around 27°C.
Hwange National Park spans over 14,600 square kilometers and is home to more than 50,000 elephants. The dry season from June to October is optimal for wildlife viewing, with park entry fees around $20 per person. Guided safaris range from $200 to $500, depending on luxury levels.
The Chimanimani Mountains offer various hiking routes, with the main trail covering 15 kilometers from the Chimanimani Park entrance to the base of Mount Binga, Zimbabwe's highest peak at 2,436 meters. Overnight huts cost approximately ZWL$500 per person. Temperatures can drop to 5°C at night, particularly during the June-August winter months.
Houseboats on Lake Kariba, measuring 220 kilometers long, provide an ideal setting for wildlife viewing and fishing. Rates start at ZWL$12,000 per night for a cabin accommodating up to six guests. The lake's average temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C throughout the year, making it a year-round destination for relaxation and adventure.
The best time for a safari in Hwange National Park is from June to October, when temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. Daily park entry fees are $20 USD per adult. Wildlife viewing peaks in August, with elephant populations reaching over 45,000, making it a prime month for sightings.
In Harare, Zimbabwe, walking safaris at Mana Pools National Park start from $200 USD per person per night, including guided tours. The park spans 2,500 square kilometers and is home to elephants, hippos, and over 450 bird species. Temperatures can reach 35°C in October, ideal for wildlife sightings.
Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park spans 14,650 square kilometers and is home to over 40,000 elephants. Visitors can enjoy walking safaris in Mana Pools, where temperatures can reach 95°F during peak season. Lodges in the area range from budget options starting at $50 per night to luxury accommodations exceeding $500.
1000+ Tours at great prices! Browse our categories below to find your perfect experience.
Loading guides...
