Dry Season
May to October is the dry season, ideal for wildlife viewing.
Travel guide
Zimbabve
Zimbabwe, known for its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife, offers a diverse travel experience beyond its capital, Harare. Explore the majestic Victoria Falls, the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe, and the vibrant culture in Bulawayo. From safaris in Hwange National Park to the serene beauty of Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe is a treasure trove for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Digr · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best MonthsMay to October
- AirportsHarare International Airport, Victoria Falls Air
- TransitBuses and taxis available
- Power230V, 50Hz
- Tipping10% is common
- LanguageEnglish, Shona, Sindebele
01
When to go
The best time to visit Zimbabwe is during the dry season from May to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak and the weather is pleasant.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
November to April brings rains, lush landscapes, and fewer tourists.
Shoulder Season
April and October are transitional months with pleasant weather.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Urban
Harare
The capital city offers a mix of urban culture, parks, and museums.
Busy city life.
Adventure
Victoria Falls
A world-renowned natural wonder with numerous adventure activities.
Tourist hotspot.
Cultural
Bulawayo
Known for its colonial architecture and cultural heritage.
Less crowded than Harare.
Wildlife
Hwange National Park
Famous for its large elephant population and diverse wildlife.
Remote location.
Historical
Great Zimbabwe
The ruins of an ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Requires a guided tour.
Nature
Lake Kariba
A large man-made lake ideal for fishing and boating.
Popular for houseboats.
Scenic
Mutare
A gateway to the Eastern Highlands with beautiful scenery.
Cooler climate.
Outdoor
Nyanga
Home to stunning mountains and waterfalls, perfect for hiking.
Bring hiking gear.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Sadza
A staple food made from maize, often served with meat and vegetables.
→ Try it at local eateries.
Biltong
Dried and cured meat, popular as a snack.
→ Look for it in markets.
Mapopo
Papaya fruit, commonly enjoyed fresh.
→ Available in local shops.
Nyama Choma
Grilled meat, often enjoyed at barbecues.
→ Best at roadside stalls.
Mopane Worms
A delicacy made from caterpillars, rich in protein.
→ Try it for a unique experience.
Chikanda
A traditional dish made from wild orchids.
→ Find it at cultural festivals.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Victoria Falls
One of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the world.
Great Zimbabwe Ruins
Ancient stone structures that reflect the history of the region.
Hwange National Park
A vast park known for its wildlife and safari experiences.
Mana Pools National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its walking safaris.
Lake Kariba
A scenic lake offering boating and fishing opportunities.
Matobo National Park
Known for its rock formations and rich wildlife.
Bulawayo Railway Museum
Showcases the history of rail transport in Zimbabwe.
Chinhoyi Caves
Famous for its stunning underground lakes and formations.
Eastern Highlands
A mountainous region with breathtaking views and hiking trails.
National Gallery of Zimbabwe
Features contemporary and traditional Zimbabwean art.
The Lion and Cheetah Park
A sanctuary for big cats and other wildlife.
Victoria Falls Bridge
An iconic bridge offering stunning views of the falls.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Air Travel
Major airports include Harare International Airport and Victoria Falls Airport.
HREHarare International Airport
VFAVictoria Falls Airport
Local Transport
Buses and taxis are available for getting around cities and towns.
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights connect major cities and tourist destinations.
Car Rentals
Car rentals are available but driving is on the left side.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type D and G plugs are used; bring an adapter.
Cash
Carry cash as card acceptance is limited in rural areas.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% is common.
Language
English is widely spoken, along with Shona and Sindebele.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A week is ideal to explore major attractions.