Zimbabwe’s capital city is the country’s most cosmopolitan and contemporary destination, dotted with restaurants and bars, shops and markets. Its proud historical and cultural heritage is reflected in several well-preserved old buildings and informative museums, while its many parks and gardens provide a pleasant contrast to the bustling urban sectors. Located within easy reach of the city centre are the Mukuvisi Woodlands, comprising over 250 hectares of rich natural wilderness, while the magnificent Kopje – a rocky hill to the southwest of Harare – offers great views over the city. Other city highlights include the fascinating National Gallery of Zimbabwe, the abundant Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences, the Chapungu Sculpture Park, and the gorgeous National Botanic Garden, filled with a variety of rare African plants as well as exotic plants from around the world.
Resting on the Zimbabwe-Mozambique border, 30 kilometres southeast of Mutare, the spectacular Bvumba or Vumba Mountains rise to an impressive 1911-metre peak at Castle Beacon. The year-round abundance of exotic flora and fauna makes Bvumba an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking the region's rarest bird and butterfly species. Keep a close eye out for the endangered Samango monkey and the elusive mountain leopard. Spend your days hiking Bvumba’s picturesque hillsides, verdant natural forests, and breathtaking landscapes, where you will discover a botanical treasure trove of unique African bird, animal and plant life. Don’t miss the Bunga Forest Botanical Reserve and the nearby Bvumba Botanical Garden, designed around several small streams and includes a vital cycad collection, with 59 of the 189 known species.
Situated in southeastern Zimbabwe, the capital of Masvingo Province, Masvingo town was formerly known as Fort Victoria. It is located near the Unesco-listed Great Zimbabwe National Monument, the ruins of an ancient city of mysterious origins that dates back thousands of years and shows evidence of an advanced civilisation. Masvingo serves as an excellent base from which to explore several attractions such as this in the surrounding region, including beautiful Lake Mutirikwi Recreational Park, the enthralling Kyle Dam, and the Kyle National Reserve, home to abundant wildlife. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the neighbouring Mushandike National Park, known for its stunning natural landscapes.
Idyllically located in the spectacular Matobo Hills, the renowned Matobo National Park is known for its rich human history, its remarkably diverse flora and fauna and its magnificent rugged terrain. This unspoiled natural wilderness features a range of massive red-tinged, granite boulders interspersed with gorgeous wooded valleys making it a dream destination for hikers, climbers and nature lovers alike. The reserve is compact, easily accessible and is home to an impressive range of African wildlife including the highly endangered black and white rhinoceros, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, cheetah, hippo, warthog and crocodile as well as Africa's largest concentration of leopard and black eagles. This unforgettable national park serves as an ideal stopover for travellers heading to the popular tourist sites of Hwange and the majestic Victoria Falls.
Located in western Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve) is the largest natural reserve in the country and is famous for its rich diversity of wildlife. Home to one of the biggest elephant populations in the world, as well as around 100 mammal species, the park is a wonderland for animal lovers. Several protected animals inhabit the awe-inspiring open landscapes, including the endangered wild dog, critically endangered black rhino, and rare roan and sable - along with lion, cheetah, and around 500 bird species. Adventurers can look forward to guided bush hikes, game drives, and horse riding safaris, all of which offer excellent photographic opportunities. Hwange boasts several unique natural features, most notably the natural seeps such as Nehimba and Shakwanki animals dig for water.
Resting on the southeastern shores of Lake Kariba, the tiny village of Binga lies close to Zimbabwe’s northern border with Zambia. It is situated within the eponymous Binga District in Matabeleland North. The town of Binga serves as a centre for cultural activities and as the perfect base for fishing and boating on the massive Kariba Lake. Perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in a different cultures, travellers to Binga can embark on a tour of the village to learn about the traditions of the Tonga People, visit the cultural museum and browse the traditional craft market to shop for beautiful handmade crafts including beadwork, basket ware, drums and much more. Don’t miss a visit to the hot springs, the crocodile farm, the surrounding game reserves, the beautiful Chijalile Pass, and the swamps in the Simatelele Ward area.
