Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe occupies legendary status in African safari culture, home to some of the continent's finest game reserves and most spectacular natural wonders. Victoria Falls defines the border with Zambia, but Zimbabwe offers far more: Hwange National Park's enormous elephant herds, Mana Pools' walking safaris along the Zambezi, the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe that gave the nation its name.

The country was named "World's Number One Destination to Visit in 2025" by Forbes Australia—recognition of Zimbabwe's remarkable tourism recovery after decades of political and economic turmoil. With 1.6 million arrivals in 2024 generating $1.2 billion in revenue, travelers have clearly returned in force.

What makes Zimbabwe compelling is the combination of Victoria Falls' theatrical power with safari experiences that rival anywhere in Africa—yet without East Africa's crowds. Professional guiding standards, developed over generations, remain among the continent's highest. The infrastructure continues improving with airport modernizations, hotel refurbishments, and expanded flight connections.

The name "Zimbabwe" derives from the Shona phrase dzimba dza mabwe meaning "houses of stone"—a direct reference to Great Zimbabwe, the ancient city whose ruins gave the nation its identity upon independence in 1980. Before that, the country was known as Rhodesia, named after British colonialist Cecil Rhodes.

The Zimbabwe Bird, a soapstone sculpture found at Great Zimbabwe, serves as the national emblem, appearing on the flag and currency. The original birds, carved between the 13th and 15th centuries, represent the country's connection to its pre-colonial civilization.

The national flag combines black (the people), red (blood shed for independence), yellow (mineral wealth), green (agriculture), and white (peace), with the Zimbabwe Bird on a red star representing the socialist ideals of the liberation movement.

Independence came on April 18, 1980, after a prolonged liberation struggle. The date is celebrated annually as Independence Day, marking the transition from white-minority rule to majority governance.

Zimbabwe covers 390,757 km²—roughly the size of Japan or slightly larger than Montana. The country is landlocked, bordered by Zambia (north), Mozambique (east), South Africa (south), and Botswana (west). The landscape consists primarily of high plateau (highveld) averaging 1,200-1,500 meters elevation.

Mashonaland (North & East): Home to Harare and the Eastern Highlands. The fertile tobacco-growing region and the mountainous border with Mozambique offer cooler climates and dramatic scenery.

Matabeleland (South & West): Bulawayo anchors this drier region. Hwange National Park and the approach to Victoria Falls define the western border. The Matobo Hills contain extraordinary granite formations and ancient rock art.

Zambezi Valley (North): The mighty river forms the border with Zambia, feeding both Victoria Falls and Lake Kariba. Mana Pools occupies the floodplains downstream from Kariba Dam.

Lowveld (South): Hot, low-lying terrain along the Limpopo River. Gonarezhou National Park protects wilderness along the Mozambique border.

Great Zimbabwe (11th-15th century): The Shona civilization built Africa's largest stone structures south of the Sahara. The city controlled gold and ivory trade routes connecting the interior to Indian Ocean ports, housing up to 18,000 people at its peak. Decline came around 1450, possibly due to environmental degradation.

Rozvi and Ndebele Kingdoms: The Rozvi Empire succeeded Great Zimbabwe, maintaining regional dominance until the 1830s when Ndebele warriors, fleeing Zulu expansion under Mzilikazi, established their own kingdom centered on Bulawayo.

Colonial Era (1890-1980): Cecil Rhodes' British South Africa Company occupied the territory in 1890, establishing white settler rule. Named Southern Rhodesia, then simply Rhodesia after the 1965 Unilateral Declaration of Independence, the country remained under minority rule despite international sanctions.

Liberation and Independence: The Bush War (1964-1979) pitted guerrilla forces against the Rhodesian government. The Lancaster House Agreement ended the conflict, leading to majority-rule elections and independence on April 18, 1980, with Robert Mugabe as first Prime Minister.

Modern Era: Land reform controversies, economic collapse, and political turmoil marked the 2000s. Mugabe's 37-year rule ended in 2017. The current government under Emmerson Mnangagwa has prioritized economic stabilization and tourism revival.

Zimbabwe's 16 million people comprise primarily two major ethnic groups: the Shona (about 70%) concentrated in the north and east, and the Ndebele (about 20%) in the southwest. Smaller groups include Tonga, Venda, and others. The white population, once over 250,000, has declined dramatically since 2000.

Despite economic hardships, Zimbabweans maintain one of Africa's highest literacy rates (over 90%). Education remains highly valued, and the country produces significant numbers of professionals who often work abroad, creating a large diaspora community.

Shona sculpture has gained international recognition since the 1960s. Artists working in serpentine and other local stones create distinctive pieces displayed in galleries worldwide. The tradition draws on spiritual beliefs connecting humans to ancestral spirits.

Mbira music, featuring the thumb piano, carries deep spiritual significance in Shona culture, traditionally used to communicate with ancestors. Thomas Mapfumo's "chimurenga music" blended mbira with modern instruments during the liberation struggle and remains influential.

Harare (population 1.5 million) serves as Zimbabwe's capital and largest city, situated on the highveld at 1,490 meters elevation. Founded in 1890 as Fort Salisbury, the city retains a colonial-era grid layout with jacaranda-lined avenues that bloom purple in September-October.

National Gallery of Zimbabwe houses one of Africa's finest collections of Shona sculpture alongside international works. The adjacent Chapungu Sculpture Park displays monumental pieces in garden settings.

Mbare Musika, the city's largest market, offers overwhelming sensory immersion—produce, crafts, traditional medicine, and daily commerce. Early morning visits are safest and most atmospheric.

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport underwent modernization, improving Zimbabwe's connectivity. Ethiopian Airlines and other carriers have expanded routes, making Harare an increasingly viable entry point.

The city struggles with infrastructure challenges—water shortages, power cuts, and road maintenance issues reflect broader economic difficulties. Yet restaurants, hotels, and shopping centers operate normally for visitors, and Harare serves as a logical base for exploring the Eastern Highlands.

Victoria Falls ranks among Earth's most spectacular natural wonders—1.7 kilometers wide, dropping over 100 meters into the Batoka Gorge. The spray rises high enough to be visible from 50 kilometers during peak flow, earning the local name Mosi-oa-Tunya ("The Smoke That Thunders").

Zimbabwe's advantage: The Zimbabwe side provides approximately 75% of the waterfall view from cliff-edge viewpoints in the Victoria Falls Rainforest. The main falls, Devil's Cataract, and the dramatic eastern cataracts all face Zimbabwean territory.

Peak flow (February-May): Maximum water creates drenching spray—bring waterproof gear and accept getting soaked. Rainbows arch through the mist. Views can actually be obscured by spray intensity.

Low water (September-December): More rock visible, pools accessible at the top (Devil's Pool on Zambian side), clearer photography conditions. Less dramatic but more intimate access.

Adventure activities: Bungee jumping from Victoria Falls Bridge (111 meters), helicopter flights ("Flight of Angels"), white-water rafting through the gorges, Zambezi River sunset cruises, micro-light flights over the falls.

KAZA UniVisa ($50): Essential for exploring both Zimbabwe and Zambia sides—allows unlimited crossings for 30 days. Available at airports and border posts.

Zimbabwe's largest protected area (14,651 km²) harbors over 40,000 elephants—among Africa's greatest concentrations. The park's artificial waterholes, originally developed for cattle ranching, now concentrate wildlife during the dry season for extraordinary viewing.

Wildlife: Beyond elephants, Hwange supports lions, leopards, African wild dogs (one of the continent's healthiest populations), cheetahs, and abundant plains game including sable antelope, a Zimbabwean specialty. Over 400 bird species recorded.

The experience: Morning and evening game drives reveal concentrated wildlife at waterholes. Walking safaris offer intimate encounters. Night drives spotlight nocturnal species. The park receives far fewer visitors than comparable reserves in East Africa—genuine wilderness with professional guiding.

Accommodation ranges from luxury lodges (Somalisa, Linkwasha, Little Makalolo) to budget national parks camps. The main camp at Hwange offers affordable entry. Private concessions provide exclusive experiences.

Access: 2-hour drive from Victoria Falls town or charter flights to airstrips within the park. Best combined with Victoria Falls for a classic Zimbabwe itinerary.

UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for walking and canoe safaris along the Zambezi floodplains. "Mana" means "four" in Shona, referring to the four main pools that remain when the Zambezi recedes after the wet season.

What makes it special: Elephants standing on hind legs to reach albida tree pods—a behavior seen almost nowhere else. Lions and wild dogs hunting on the floodplains. Canoeists and foot-bound visitors sharing the landscape directly with wildlife, without vehicle barriers.

The atmosphere: Remote conditions with limited facilities attract serious safari enthusiasts willing to trade convenience for intimate experiences. This is not a park for casual visitors—heat, wildlife encounters, and basic infrastructure require preparation and appropriate expectations.

Activities: Walking safaris with armed guides, canoe trips on the Zambezi, game drives, fishing (tiger fish are legendary), and photography. The albida groves and floodplain terrain create exceptional lighting conditions.

Best time: Dry season (May-October) concentrates wildlife. September-October brings peak heat but maximum animal activity around remaining water sources.

The largest ancient stone construction in Africa south of the Sahara—Great Zimbabwe gave the nation its name. Built between the 11th and 15th centuries without mortar, the walls reach 11 meters high and demonstrate sophisticated engineering by the Shona civilization.

UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing the Hill Complex (royal residence and spiritual center), the Great Enclosure (largest ancient structure in sub-Saharan Africa), and the Valley Ruins (housing for the population).

Historical significance: At its peak, the city housed up to 18,000 people and controlled gold and ivory trade routes connecting the interior to Indian Ocean ports at Sofala. The Zimbabwe Birds, soapstone sculptures found at the site, became the national emblem.

Visiting: Located near Masvingo (300 km south of Harare), the ruins require 2-3 hours for thorough exploration. The on-site museum displays artifacts and explains construction techniques. Nearby Lake Mutirikwi offers additional recreation.

Colonial-era denial of African origins for the site—attributing construction to Phoenicians or other outside builders—reflected racist ideology. Modern archaeology confirms Shona construction, making Great Zimbabwe a powerful symbol of African civilization.

One of the world's largest artificial lakes, created by damming the Zambezi in 1959. The lake stretches 220 kilometers along the Zimbabwe-Zambia border, transforming the valley into an inland sea dotted with drowned trees and inhabited by hippos, crocodiles, and enormous tiger fish.

Houseboats: The quintessential Kariba experience—floating accommodation ranging from basic pontoon boats to luxury vessels. Fishing, swimming, sunset cruising, and watching elephants on the shoreline define lazy Kariba days.

Matusadona National Park borders the southern shore, accessible only by boat. Elephant, buffalo, and lion populations recovered after devastating droughts. Walking safaris and fishing camps offer remote wilderness experiences.

Tiger fishing: Kariba is legendary for Hydrocynus vittatus—the tiger fish, a fierce predator providing spectacular sport fishing. September-November offers prime conditions as fish concentrate in warming waters.

Kariba town sits on the dam wall, offering the most accessible base. The Kariba Dam itself—a massive curved wall holding back 180 cubic kilometers of water—can be viewed from both Zimbabwean and Zambian sides.

Sadza: The national staple—thick maize porridge served with nearly every meal. Similar to ugali in East Africa or pap in South Africa. Eaten by hand, rolled into balls and dipped into relishes and stews.

Nyama: Grilled meat at braais (barbecues)—beef, goat, and game meats. Roadside vendors offer surprisingly excellent grilled chicken and beef. Biltong (dried, cured meat) provides protein for travel.

Relishes: Sadza accompaniments include matemba (dried fish), derere (okra), muriwo (leafy greens), and various meat stews. Peanut butter (dovi) appears in many traditional sauces.

Lake Kariba fish: Bream (tilapia) and kapenta (small sardine-like fish) provide freshwater protein. Kapenta, dried and fried, serves as both snack and sadza relish.

Chibuku: Traditional opaque beer made from sorghum or maize—an acquired taste for adventurous visitors. Sold in cartons, consumed communally. Castle and Zambezi provide more familiar lager options.

Safari lodges: International cuisine with bush dinners cooked over open fires. Many camps produce excellent food despite remote locations—a legacy of Zimbabwe's long safari tradition.

Sadza

Cornmeal Staple

Thick cornmeal porridge—Zimbabwe's daily bread, eaten with relish.

Ingredients: 480ml white cornmeal, 960ml water, Salt.

Preparation: Boil water. Add cornmeal gradually, stirring. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Then cook until very thick and pulls from pot. Shape into mound. Last, pinch pieces to scoop relish.

💡 Sadza should be stiff enough to hold shape when pinched.

Muriwo

Leafy Greens

Sautéed collard greens—the essential relish for sadza.

Ingredients: Large bunch collard greens or rape, 1 onion, sliced, 2 tomatoes, diced, Peanut butter (optional), Oil, Salt.

Preparation: Shred greens finely. After that, sauté onion until soft. Add tomatoes, cook down. Then add greens, cover to wilt. Add spoonful of peanut butter if desired. Finally, cook until tender.

💡 Peanut butter addition is traditional—adds richness.

Braaied Beef

Grilled Meat

Simply grilled beef over wood fire—Zimbabwean braai tradition.

Ingredients: Beef steaks or chops, Coarse salt, Sadza and muriwo, Chakalaka (optional).

Preparation: Light wood fire, let coals form. After that, season meat simply with salt. Grill over coals. Then turn once. Rest before serving. Finally, serve with sadza and muriwo.

💡 Wood fire gives better flavor than charcoal—patience for good coals.

Best overall: May-October for safari; February-May for Victoria Falls at maximum flow. September-October offers exceptional game viewing but extreme heat. Shoulder seasons (May, November) can offer value pricing.

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (Harare): The main hub with modernized terminal. Ethiopian Airlines operates the most extensive network, connecting through Addis Ababa. Kenya Airways, South African Airways, and regional carriers serve the route.

Victoria Falls International Airport: Recently expanded with new terminal. Direct flights from Johannesburg (multiple daily), and seasonal routes including Eurowings from Frankfurt. Most convenient for Victoria Falls-focused trips.

Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International (Bulawayo): Serves Zimbabwe's second city with regional connections.

Land borders: Beitbridge (South Africa) is the busiest crossing—notorious for congestion and delays. Victoria Falls Bridge connects to Zambia. Forbes/Machipanda links to Mozambique. Kazungula reaches Botswana.

From South Africa: Johannesburg serves as the main gateway for international travelers. Multiple daily flights to both Harare and Victoria Falls. Self-drive possible but Beitbridge delays unpredictable.

Visa: Most nationalities require visas. Single entry $30, double entry $45, multiple entry $55. Available on arrival at airports and border posts, or in advance via eVisa (evisa.gov.zw).

KAZA UniVisa ($50): Allows unlimited crossings between Zimbabwe and Zambia for 30 days. Essential for exploring both sides of Victoria Falls. Available at Victoria Falls airports and border posts.

Currency: US dollars preferred and widely accepted. Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) circulates but tourists rarely need it. Bring clean, recent USD bills—damaged or pre-2006 notes may be refused. ATMs dispense USD but aren't always reliable.

Health: Malaria prevention essential in all safari areas and the Zambezi Valley. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from endemic countries. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage strongly recommended.

Safety: Tourist areas are generally safe. Petty crime exists in cities—use normal precautions. Safari areas are professionally managed. Political demonstrations should be avoided.

Electricity: 220-240V, 50Hz. Type D and G plugs (same as UK/South Africa). Bring universal adapter. Load shedding (power cuts) occur but lodges have generators.

Currency note: Bring clean, recent US bills. Damaged or pre-2006 notes are often rejected. $50 and $100 bills get better exchange rates at some venues. Credit cards accepted at major hotels and lodges but cash essential elsewhere.

Safari Lodges: Zimbabwe's luxury safari camps rival the best in Africa—Singita Pamushana, Somalisa, Linkwasha, and others offer exceptional guiding, cuisine, and wildlife. All-inclusive rates ($500-1,500/night) cover meals, drinks, and activities.

Victoria Falls: Wide range from backpacker lodges to the historic Victoria Falls Hotel (colonial grandeur, waterfall views). Kingdom Hotel and Elephant Hills offer mid-range options. Town lodges provide budget alternatives.

National Parks Camps: Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority operates affordable camps in Hwange, Mana Pools, and other reserves. Basic but functional—book well ahead for popular locations during peak season.

Houseboats: Lake Kariba's distinctive accommodation—from basic pontoons to luxury cruisers. Operators include Musango Safari Camp, Rhino Safari Camp, and independent charter vessels.

City Hotels: Harare and Bulawayo offer international chains (Meikles, Holiday Inn, Cresta) and boutique options. Quality varies; book through reputable platforms.

Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA): April/May. Six days of music, theater, dance, and visual arts attracting African and international performers. The country's premier cultural event.

Victoria Falls Carnival: December 29-31. Three days of music and celebration welcoming the New Year at the falls. International and regional acts perform against the backdrop of the spray.

Zimbabwe International Film Festival: August/September. Showcases African and international cinema in Harare venues.

Independence Day: April 18. National celebrations mark the 1980 transition to majority rule. Ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances across the country.

Vic Falls Marathon: July. Runners complete a course with views of the falls and wildlife—one of Africa's most scenic marathon routes.

Zimbabwe hosts five UNESCO World Heritage Sites—remarkable for a country its size:

Victoria Falls / Mosi-oa-Tunya (1989): Shared with Zambia. One of the world's greatest waterfalls—1.7 km wide, over 100 meters drop. The spray creates a unique rainforest microclimate.

Mana Pools National Park (1984): Zambezi floodplains famous for walking safaris and elephants feeding from albida trees. Includes Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas.

Great Zimbabwe National Monument (1986): Largest ancient stone construction in sub-Saharan Africa. The civilization that built it controlled regional trade from the 11th-15th centuries.

Khami Ruins (1986): Near Bulawayo. The Torwa state capital after Great Zimbabwe's decline, with distinctive terraced architecture.

Matobo Hills (2003): Extraordinary granite formations containing one of the highest concentrations of rock art in Africa. Cecil Rhodes' burial site sits controversially among sacred Ndebele sites.

Eastern Highlands: Cool mountains along the Mozambique border—Nyanga, Vumba, and Chimanimani offer hiking, trout fishing, and dramatic scenery far from safari circuits. Colonial-era hotels provide atmospheric bases.

Matobo Hills: Beyond UNESCO recognition, this landscape of balanced rocks hosts black eagles, rhinos, and profound San rock art. Cecil Rhodes' controversial grave crowns the "View of the World."

Gonarezhou National Park: "Place of Elephants" along the Mozambique border—wild, remote, and part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park. Chilojo Cliffs and massive baobabs define the landscape.

Chinhoyi Caves: The "Sleeping Pool"—a collapsed dolomite cave system with startlingly blue water. Sacred to local people, now a recreational dive site and natural monument.

Bulawayo: Zimbabwe's second city preserves colonial architecture, tree-lined streets, and a slower pace. The Railway Museum and Natural History Museum warrant visits. Gateway to Matobo Hills.

Safari essentials: Neutral colors (khaki, olive, brown—avoid white and bright colors). Layers for cold morning game drives. Quality binoculars and camera with zoom lens.

Victoria Falls: Waterproof bag or camera housing essential during high water (Feb-May). Rain jacket or poncho. Quick-dry clothing. Sandals with good grip for wet walkways.

Health items: Antimalarial medication, insect repellent (DEET-based), sunscreen, hat, first-aid basics. Prescription medications in original containers.

Practical: US dollars in clean, recent bills. Universal power adapter (UK/South Africa type). Headlamp for camps. Dust-proof bags for electronics.

Leave behind: Bright colors for safari. Excessive luggage (light aircraft have strict limits—typically 15-20kg soft bags only). Drone (restricted in parks). Camouflage patterns (illegal to wear).

Official Tourism: zimbabwetourism.net — Official Zimbabwe Tourism Authority with travel information and operator listings.

eVisa: evisa.gov.zw — Apply for Zimbabwe visa online before travel.

Parks: zimparks.org — Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority. Accommodation bookings for national parks camps.

Victoria Falls: victoriafalls-guide.net — Comprehensive guide to activities, accommodation, and logistics on both Zimbabwe and Zambia sides.

Emergency: Police 995, Ambulance 994, Fire 993. Medical Air Rescue Service (MARS) provides emergency evacuation.

"Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight" by Alexandra Fuller — Memoir of a childhood on Rhodesian farms during the Bush War. Unflinching, beautifully written.

"The House of Hunger" by Dambudzo Marechera — Influential novella capturing township life and colonial alienation. Challenging, essential Zimbabwean literature.

"Nervous Conditions" by Tsitsi Dangarembga — Coming-of-age novel exploring education, gender, and colonialism in 1960s Rhodesia.

"When a Crocodile Eats the Sun" by Peter Godwin — Memoir of returning to Zimbabwe during the farm invasions and Mugabe's decline. Personal and political.

"The Cry of the Go-Away Bird" by Andrea Eames — Novel of childhood in 1990s Zimbabwe as political tensions rise.

YouTube searches:

• "Victoria Falls Zimbabwe" — Waterfall footage from multiple viewpoints
• "Hwange National Park elephants" — Wildlife documentaries
• "Mana Pools walking safari" — On-foot wildlife encounters
• "Great Zimbabwe ruins" — Archaeological exploration
• "Zimbabwe safari 2024" — Recent visitor experiences
• "Lake Kariba houseboat" — Floating accommodation
• "Matobo Hills rock art" — Ancient San paintings

🏆 Forbes #1 2025: Named "World's Number One Destination to Visit in 2025" by Forbes Australia.

🐘 Elephant capital: Hwange's 40,000+ elephants represent one of Africa's largest populations.

💧 Victoria Falls: Largest curtain of falling water on Earth—1.7 km wide, 108 meters high at maximum.

🏛️ Ancient civilization: Great Zimbabwe housed up to 18,000 people at its peak (11th-15th century).

📚 Literacy leader: Over 90% literacy rate—among the highest in Africa.

Morgan Tsvangirai (1952-2018): Opposition leader who challenged Mugabe's rule, served as Prime Minister in the unity government (2009-2013).

Tsitsi Dangarembga (b. 1959): Author of "Nervous Conditions," filmmaker, and activist. Winner of the PEN International Award for Freedom of Expression.

Kirsty Coventry (b. 1983): Olympic swimmer—Zimbabwe's most decorated Olympian with 7 medals. Now serving as Minister of Sport.

Oliver Mtukudzi (1952-2019): "Tuku"—legendary musician who blended traditional Zimbabwean sounds with contemporary African music over 60+ albums.

Strive Masiyiwa (b. 1961): Telecom entrepreneur, founder of Econet. One of Africa's wealthiest individuals and prominent philanthropist.

Football (Soccer): The national passion. The Warriors national team has qualified for multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments. Dynamos and Highlanders dominate the domestic Premier League.

Cricket: One of Zimbabwe's signature sports. The national team held Test status (suspended 2004-2011, regained). Heath Streak remains the most capped player.

Rugby: Popular particularly among the white community. The Sables compete internationally though below Tier 1 level.

Swimming: Kirsty Coventry's Olympic success (7 medals) made swimming a source of national pride. Pool facilities in Harare produce competitive swimmers.

Golf: Colonial-era courses remain well-maintained. The Zimbabwe Open attracted international fields historically.

Television: ZBC (Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation) operates state channels. DStv (South African satellite) provides international programming in hotels and homes.

Radio: ZBC radio dominates. Private stations emerged after 2020 licensing reforms. Radio remains the primary information source for rural populations.

Press: The Herald (state-owned, pro-government) and NewsDay (private) lead print media. The Zimbabwe Independent provides business coverage. Press freedom remains constrained.

Internet: Mobile data widely available through Econet, NetOne, and Telecel. Urban areas have reasonable connectivity; rural coverage limited. Social media platforms accessible.

For visitors: International news accessible via hotel WiFi and satellite TV. Local SIM cards available at airports for mobile data.

Gallery coming soon — showcasing Victoria Falls, Hwange elephants, Great Zimbabwe, and more.

Zimbabwe's recognition as Forbes Australia's "World's Number One Destination to Visit in 2025" marks a remarkable turnaround for a country whose tourism collapsed under decades of political and economic turmoil. The 1.6 million arrivals in 2024 and $1.2 billion in revenue demonstrate that travelers have returned in force.

What makes Zimbabwe compelling is the combination of Victoria Falls' theatrical power with safari experiences that rival anywhere in Africa—yet without East Africa's crowds. Hwange's 40,000+ elephants create scenes of overwhelming scale. Mana Pools' walking safaris offer intimacy impossible in vehicle-based parks. Great Zimbabwe connects visitors to a sophisticated ancient African civilization.

The professional guiding standards, developed over generations when Rhodesia and then Zimbabwe led African safari culture, remain among the continent's highest. The infrastructure continues improving—airport modernizations, hotel refurbishments, expanded flight connections.

For travelers seeking Southern Africa's classic safari experiences alongside one of the world's natural wonders, Zimbabwe delivers everything the Forbes recognition suggests.