Travel : Zimbabwe - Natural sightseeing & other details of this African nation

 

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in Southern Africa, known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and historic sites. It is home to some of Africa's most famous natural wonders, including the majestic Victoria Falls. Zimbabwe's vibrant culture is influenced by its ancient civilizations, such as Great Zimbabwe, and is reflected in its art, music, and traditions. Despite its turbulent history, Zimbabwe remains a fascinating and rewarding destination for travelers seeking adventure, wildlife, and a deep connection to Africa's past.

Best Spots to Visit in Zimbabwe

1. **Victoria Falls**

   - **Description:** One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls, or "Mosi-oa-Tunya" (The Smoke That Thunders), is a breathtaking waterfall on the Zambezi River, straddling the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

   - **Highlights:** The falls are best viewed from the Zimbabwean side, where visitors can explore the Victoria Falls National Park. Activities include walking along the rainforest trails for various viewpoints, taking a boat ride on the Zambezi River, or enjoying thrilling activities like bungee jumping and helicopter flights.

2. **Hwange National Park**

   - **Description:** Zimbabwe’s largest national park, known for its vast wilderness and abundant wildlife.

   - **Highlights:** Hwange is home to one of the largest elephant populations in the world, along with lions, leopards, giraffes, and over 400 species of birds. Game drives and walking safaris offer close encounters with wildlife, and there are various lodges and campsites for visitors to stay within the park.

3. **Great Zimbabwe Ruins**

   - **Description:** A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these ancient ruins are the remains of a once-thriving medieval city, believed to have been the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe during the Iron Age.

   - **Highlights:** The ruins feature impressive stone structures, including the Great Enclosure and the Conical Tower. Visitors can explore the site, learning about the history and culture of the Shona people who built this magnificent city between the 11th and 15th centuries.

4. **Matobo National Park**

   - **Description:** Known for its dramatic granite formations and rich cultural heritage, Matobo National Park is another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

   - **Highlights:** The park is famous for its balancing rock formations, such as the iconic Mother and Child, as well as its ancient rock art sites. Matobo is also home to a significant population of rhinos, and it is an important cultural site with the grave of Cecil Rhodes, the founder of Rhodesia, located at the summit of Malindidzimu (World's View).

5. **Mana Pools National Park**

   - **Description:** A remote and rugged wilderness area along the Zambezi River, renowned for its excellent game viewing and canoeing safaris.

   - **Highlights:** Mana Pools is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers some of the best wildlife experiences in Zimbabwe. Visitors can go on guided walking safaris, canoe safaris, or game drives to see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of other wildlife in a pristine natural environment.

Best Seasons to Visit

- **Dry Season (May to October):** The dry season is the best time for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. This period also offers pleasant weather, with warm days and cool nights. June to August is particularly popular for visiting Victoria Falls and national parks like Hwange and Mana Pools.

- **Wet Season (November to April):** The wet season brings lush greenery and is a great time for birdwatching, as many migratory species arrive. However, some roads may become impassable due to rain, and wildlife viewing can be more challenging as animals spread out. The Victoria Falls are most impressive from February to May, after the rainy season, when the water flow is at its peak.

Best Cuisines

Zimbabwean cuisine is a blend of traditional African dishes and colonial influences, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Some must-try dishes include:

- **Sadza:** A thick maize meal porridge that is a staple in Zimbabwe, typically served with meat, vegetables, or a tomato-based sauce.

- **Nyama:** Meat dishes, particularly beef or goat, are common in Zimbabwean cuisine. Nyama is often grilled or stewed and served with sadza.

- **Muriwo Unedovi:** A traditional dish made from leafy greens (like collard greens or kale) cooked with peanut butter, offering a rich and nutty flavor.

- **Kapenta:** Small, dried fish often fried and eaten as a snack or with a meal, particularly popular near Lake Kariba.

- **Mapopo Candy:** A sweet treat made from papaya (pawpaw) that is boiled with sugar until it forms a sticky, chewy candy.

Airlines Connectivity

Zimbabwe’s main international gateway is:

- **Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE):** Located in Harare, the capital city, this airport is the primary entry point for international travelers. It offers connections to several major cities across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

Other key airports include:

- **Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA):** Serves the Victoria Falls area and offers international flights, mainly from South Africa and regional destinations. It is a convenient entry point for travelers visiting Victoria Falls.

- **Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ):** Located in Bulawayo, this airport offers domestic and regional flights, providing access to attractions like Matobo National Park.

Airlines operating to and from Zimbabwe include:

- **Ethiopian Airlines:** Offers flights connecting Zimbabwe to various destinations in Africa, Europe, and Asia.

- **South African Airways:** Provides regular flights between Zimbabwe and Johannesburg, with connections to other international destinations.

- **Emirates:** Operates flights from Dubai to Harare, offering connections to the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

- **British Airways (operated by Comair):** Connects Harare with Johannesburg, providing onward connections to international destinations.

Domestic flights within Zimbabwe are available through airlines such as Fastjet and Air Zimbabwe, which offer connections between Harare, Victoria Falls, and Bulawayo.