Zimbabwe Travel

Home of the mighty Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe is one of Africa's most popular tourist destinations. It is a paradise for holidaymakers with its perfect climate and unspoilt natural beauty. Wherever you go, Zimbabwe will enchant you, from the cool air of the Eastern Highlands to the warm glow of Lake Kariba at sunset. Harare, the capital, is called the ‘sunshine city’ because of its sunny weather. Bulawayo is the second-largest city and a significant tourist centre. However, it's the Victoria Falls that is the most popular among Zimbabwe's tourist attractions.

Visit Lake Kariba, a tranquil place with an abundance of birds and animals, and a playground for watersports enthusiasts. The vast Hwange National Park is home to incredible wildlife including elephant, buffalo and rhino. And in the Eastern Highlands, you can enjoy fabulous trout fishing, explore forests and discover some other spectacular waterfalls.

Why travel to Zimbabwe

There is abundant wildlife on your doorstep.
You can enjoy adrenaline sports like bungee jumping and white-water rafting.
It’s home to the most famous and beautiful waterfalls in the world.
Zimbabwe boasts 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Great Zimbabwe Ruins.
Lodges and hotels are world-class.
It’s a year-round destination with beautiful weather.
There’s a wide diversity of landscapes to discover.

Zimbabwe is a magical holiday destination, close enough to South Africa to make travelling here affordable for families, friends or couples. Whether you’re looking to go on safari, wish to relax on honeymoon close to the magical Victoria Falls, or would like to explore further afield, a holiday to Zimbabwe is a great choice. Let Thompsons Holidays take you on an adventure holiday to this magnificent country.

What to do in Zimbabwe

There is so much to do in Zimbabwe. The thundering Victoria Falls presents a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, its primary water source. The Rainforest surrounding the Falls in Zimbabwe is an area of dense woodland vegetation supported and nourished by the constant spray from these waterfalls.

Extreme sports enthusiasts come here to enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping and swimming in the Devil’s Pool. The safari options are also endless and exciting, offering rhino encounters, night drives and bush dinners, as well as game viewing from the waters of the Zambezi River.

Things to do in Zimbabwe

Enjoy freshwater fishing on Lake Kariba.
Take a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls.
Go on safari to see the Big 5 in Hwange National Park.
Visit the mysterious Chinhoyi Caves to see the crystal-clear lake, the Sleeping Pool.
Discover ancient rock art in Matobo National Park.
Cruise the Zambezi River, view wildlife and enjoy a memorable African sunset.
Explore the ruins of Great Zimbabwe.
Photograph exquisite landscapes in remote Mana Pools National Park.
Experience a unique walking safari to see wildlife up close.
Go hiking in the Chimanimani Mountains.

Zimbabwe offers visitors a multitude of adventure activities, from helicopter rides over the Falls to white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, game viewing to see a variety of wildlife including the Big 5 and dining on traditional African dishes under the star-studded sky. Browse our exciting Zimbabwe holiday packages and get in touch to arrange your trip to this stunning country.

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Zimbabwe to see Victoria Falls is after the rainy season, in April and May.
Winter months (May to September) are best for game viewing.
At the end of the dry months (October to December), the water levels are low.

Getting there & getting around

Flight duration from Johannesburg to Harare in Zimbabwe: 1 hour, 43 minutes.
Direct flights to Vic Falls in Zimbabwe: 1 hour, 35 minutes.
Transport within Zimbabwe is by car, bus or train.

Do I need a visa?

South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter Zimbabwe.
Passport must be valid for 6 months after your trip.

What time is it?

Time zone – the same time as in South Africa.

Money matters

The official currency is the Zimbabwean Dollar (Z$).
Credit cards are accepted in tourist areas, where ATMs are also available.
Tipping is not compulsory but warmly received in Zimbabwe.

Language & phrases

English is one of the 16 official languages in Zimbabwe and is widely spoken.

Culture & religion

Christianity is the predominant religion in Zimbabwe.

Health information

In major towns, water is safe to drink. Alternatively, drink bottled water.

What must I pack?

Lightweight clothing for summer and warm layers for cooler weather.
If going on safari, take khaki or light coloured clothing.
Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, flip flops.
Sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses.
Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
Camera.
Travel adaptor.

What can I do to be a responsible traveller?

Support the local economy.
Respect each other's cultures and customs.
Do not support animal encounters and wildlife activities that are harmful or unethical.

Safety tips

Always have a map (or app) on hand, especially when travelling at night.
Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables.