Zimbabwe is the ideal destination for travellers who are looking for a safari experience beyond merely observing wildlife from a game viewing vehicle. This country is one where interactive experiences stretch far and wide. Various wilderness experiences can be enjoyed in the numerous parks - from day and night-time Game Drives in open vehicles to boat cruises, walking safaris, canoeing and houseboats - not to mention the world-famous Victoria Falls. Those who visit Zimbabwe can expect breath-taking nature, exotic wildlife, and ancient sites that offer a fascinating insight into the history of the African continent. The vistas seen from the range of viewpoints throughout the region provide panoramic landscapes filled with unworldly beauty. In addition, Zimbabwe's world-class Game Reserves and UNESCO World Heritage Sites have remained relatively untouched and are surprisingly uncrowded. Thus, giving you the surreal feeling that you have stepped off the world map.
Zimbabwe's largest wildlife park, Hwange National Park, lies between the famous Victoria Falls and Bulawayo. The western part of the park stands at a high altitude characterized by steep slopes and rocky outcrops, primarily covered by Mopane forest. The Tsamhole wilderness area, located on the western boundary, is home to Reedbuck Vlei, a natural spring feeding into the Deka River. Many buffalo, giraffe, zebra, waterbuck and eland live on the drier western edge of the park. It is an ideal destination for safaris and bush walks, and there are plenty of accommodation options in the west due to its abundance of water.
Southern Hwange National Park covers more than 14,600 square kilometres and has more animals than any other park in Zimbabwe, including more than 400 species of birds. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs inhabit the park and are often seen patrolling the territories extending beyond concession boundaries. Deep Kalahari sands define the southern two-thirds of the park, home to vast forests of Zambezi teak trees as well as other hardwoods. Several ancient fossil lakebeds and drainage lines are visible throughout these woodlands, which now consist of large savannah grasslands fringed with Acacia and Leadwood trees.
Mana Pools National Park lies in the northern region of Zimbabwe, on the southern banks of the Zambezi River. This tranquil park is a riverine wilderness of pools, floodplains, baobab trees and forests that are remarkably remote and never crowded. It is known as one of the best places in Africa to see endangered wild dogs. Large herds of elephants roam the park, where lions and leopards are also frequently sighted. Its beauty and wilderness make it a World Heritage Site. In addition, the area is perfect for walking safaris - the thin vegetation makes for excellent visibility, allowing you to see big game up close.
Victoria Falls is an awe-inspiring sight of beauty located on the Zambezi River, serving as the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The massive basalt cliffs over which the falls thunder transform the Zambezi from a calm river into rapids that carve their way through dramatic gorges. The falls have been designated as a National Park and World Heritage Site, and they are also one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, bungee jumping, and zip-lining at the falls. Additionally, there are more relaxed activities available, including sunset cruises, walking tours, and interactions with elephants.
