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Formerly known as Rhodesia, Zimbabwe gained independence from Britain in 1980. The country was often referred to as ‘Africa’s breadbasket’ because it was a nett exporter of food, it had a highly developed agricultural industry including a big tobacco industry.

Over the last decade political upheaval and turmoil has seen the country become the poorest in the world and the entire economy has all but collapsed. Even the currency has been abandoned (because it was essentially worthless) for a multi-currency system. During the turmoil, tourism suffered heavily and wildlife was decimated (poached) at unprecedented levels to sustain starving populations and military personnel.

Tourism was still seen as an important revenue earner and the geographical location of the Victoria Falls – close to Botswana and Zambia – allowed visitors to filter in without being harassed and without having to travel any further into the country.

A recent political deal involving the ruling party and the main opposition has meant that things are improving and signs are everywhere of an imminent recovery but Victoria Falls and the immediate surrounds is likely to remain the principle tourist attraction for some time to come.

The country certainly has a lot to offer from a wildlife, scenic, historical and cultural perspective..

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Attractions in Zimbabwe

Wildlife

Zimbabwe is home to a very large elephant population, mostly centred on the Hwange National Park. This population moves freely between Zimbabwe and the Chobe region of neighbouring Botswana.

The park has healthy populations of the larger predators and herbivore concentrations are high, even of rare antelope such as roan and sable, but the rhino numbers are currently unknown.

The entire stretch of the Zambezi River along the northern border of the country – the so-called Zambezi Valley – is a haven for wildlife and a variety of activities including canoeing, fishing, boat cruises and walking safaris.

Victoria Falls has become somewhat of an adventure sport destination with bungee jumping, white-water rafting, jet-boating, gorge-swing and elephant back safaris topping the list!

Cultural

Zimbabwe literally means ‘stone house’ and is a derivation of the impressive stone ‘city’ ruins of an ancient civilisation (called Great Zimbabwe) in the southern part of the country.

This is a worthwhile visit but is unfortunately off the beaten track for tourists to the attractions in the north.

Scenic

As with Zambia, the Victoria Falls is the premier and most accessible scenic attraction in the country.

One of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, this waterfall is without a doubt Zimbabwe’s premier scenic destination as is the mighty Zambezi River (Africa’s 4th longest) on which it is found.

When in peak flood it is a mile (1.6km) wide with more water flowing over every second than any other waterfall in the world….. a must-see!!!!

What we consider to be HIGHLIGHTS of a visit to Zimbabwe

• Walking tour of the Victoria Falls (all year: best February - August)
• Various adventure activities at the Falls, especially white-water rafting
• Craft market at the Falls
• Helicopter flight over the Falls and into the Batoka Gorge

Best Seasons to Travel to Zimbabwe

OUR FAVOURITE MONTHS
Victoria Falls: February – August

Safari Areas in Zimbabwe

• Victoria Falls
  Selected Hotels
  Victoria Falls Hotel

Fast Facts about Zimbabwe

• Capital:  Harare
• Population:  13 million
• Government:  Two-party system
• Head of State:  President Robert Mugabe
• Length of term: 5 years
• Maximum terms: No limit
• Currency:  Zimbabwean Dollar abandoned in favour of a multi-currency system: USD, ZAR, Euro and GBP
• Dominant religion: Christianity
• Major Industries: Mining, agriculture, tobacco (economy in collapse)
• Literacy:  91%
• Urbanisation:  37%