Top Reasons to Choose Zimbabwe for Your Safari Adventure

Uncover wild beauty, uncrowded national parks, expert guiding, and one of the world’s most dramatic natural wonders in Zimbabwe—an authentic African safari destination with fewer crowds and deeper rewards.

• Exceptional guiding standards – Zimbabwe’s professional guides are among the most highly trained in Africa, offering deeper wildlife knowledge and safer walking safaris.
• Diverse safari experiences – From 4x4 game drives and walking safaris to canoeing and birding, Zimbabwe offers a wide range of safari activities in varied landscapes.
• Fewer tourists, more exclusivity – Less crowded than neighbouring safari countries, making for quieter sightings and a more intimate experience with nature.
• Home to Victoria Falls – One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the falls offer an easy add-on to any safari itinerary.
• Hwange National Park – Zimbabwe’s flagship park boasts one of Africa’s largest elephant populations and a high density of predators.
• Mana Pools National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for up-close encounters on foot and canoe along the Zambezi River.
• Rich wildlife diversity – Big Five sightings, large herds of elephant and buffalo, painted dogs, and hundreds of bird species.
• Affordable safari options – Zimbabwe offers strong value across different budgets, especially when compared to more commercial safari destinations.
• Remote and authentic feel – Many parks and lodges are far from mass tourism, offering a true wilderness atmosphere.
• Strong conservation ethos – Several parks are supported by long-standing conservation efforts and partnerships with local communities.
• Cultural experiences available – Opportunities to engage with Zimbabwean culture and communities can be included in many itineraries.

Things to Consider Before Choosing Zimbabwe for Your Safari

Zimbabwe offers a rewarding safari experience, but there are a few important factors to consider before you travel—especially if you’re a first-time visitor to Africa.

• Limited internal flight options – Getting between safari areas often requires long road transfers or connecting through neighbouring countries.
• Seasonal access – Some parks like Mana Pools become inaccessible during the rainy season (typically December to March).
• Travel infrastructure is developing – While improving, some roads can be rough or poorly maintained, especially in rural areas.
• Less-known globally – Zimbabwe is still under the radar for many international travellers, which means fewer direct tour packages or group departures.
• Cash shortages in country – Travellers may need to plan ahead when it comes to accessing cash. Bring small denominations of USD, as card machines may not always work.
• Health precautions – Malaria is present in several safari areas, so preventive medication is recommended.
• Unpredictable power supply in some areas – While lodges often have backup systems, occasional outages can still occur in more remote locations.
• Visa requirements – Entry visa may be required for some nationalities. It’s easy to obtain on arrival or online, but should be checked in advance.
• Park fees can add up – While base rates for safaris are often good value, park entry fees and activity charges should be factored into total cost.

Zimbabwe Safari Regions – From Wild Frontiers to Iconic Landscapes

Explore Zimbabwe’s diverse safari regions, where national parks, private reserves, and remote conservancies offer a mix of wildlife, scenery, and unforgettable experiences.

Zimbabwe’s safari regions are spread across the country, each offering a different flavour of wilderness. From the elephant-rich plains of Hwange to the riverbanks of Mana Pools, and from the hills of Gonarezhou to the mopane woodlands of Malilangwe, these areas are home to a variety of protected wildlife zones. National parks, private reserves, and community-run areas work together to protect species and support tourism. Whether you're looking for predator action, scenic beauty, or walking safaris, Zimbabwe’s regions offer something for every type of traveller.

Explore Zimbabwe safari regions below.

Wildlife Areas in Zimbabwe – Untamed Landscapes, Free-Roaming Animals

Discover Zimbabwe’s protected wildlife areas, where animals roam freely across national parks, game reserves, and community conservancies—offering raw and authentic safari experiences.

Zimbabwe’s wildlife areas are vast, unfenced, and home to some of Africa’s most iconic species. These spaces include national parks like Hwange, game reserves like Malilangwe, and community or private reserves that support both conservation and local livelihoods. Wildlife moves naturally across the land, creating true wilderness encounters—from lion hunts at dawn to elephants crossing open plains. These areas are not zoos or enclosures—they are wild ecosystems managed for long-term sustainability and tourism.

Explore Zimbabwe wildlife areas below.

Zimbabwe National Parks – Protected Wilderness, Big Game, and Wide Open Spaces

Learn what makes Zimbabwe’s national parks special—from iconic wildlife to park rules and management—plus which ones are worth exploring first.

National parks in Zimbabwe are government-managed protected areas, overseen by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks). These parks are created to conserve natural ecosystems while allowing for controlled tourism. Wildlife is free-roaming, and landscapes remain mostly untouched. The experience in national parks is often self-drive or guide-led within designated areas, with rules to protect both animals and visitors—such as staying on roads and avoiding walking without permission.

Pros include large protected spaces, natural wildlife behavior, and affordability. Cons may include limited exclusivity, basic infrastructure in some areas, and stricter regulations compared to private reserves.

Top national parks include Hwange National Park, known for elephants and predators; Mana Pools, famous for canoe and walking safaris; and Gonarezhou, a remote park with dramatic scenery and fewer tourists.

Explore Zimbabwe national parks below.

Zimbabwe Game Reserves – Flexible Safaris in Protected Wilderness

Discover Zimbabwe’s game reserves—wildlife-rich areas that blend conservation with tourism, offering a mix of adventure, freedom, and community benefit.

Game reserves in Zimbabwe are protected wildlife areas often managed by local governments, communities, or conservation organisations. While still regulated, they tend to offer more flexibility than national parks. Activities may include off-road driving, night safaris, or walking experiences, depending on the rules of each reserve. These areas play a key role in conservation while also creating space for tourism and, in some cases, controlled hunting.

Pros include fewer restrictions, diverse activities, and a chance to explore with fewer crowds. Cons may include more variation in management standards and conservation effectiveness.

Top examples include Save Valley Conservancy, known for large mammals and rhino conservation, and Bubye Valley Conservancy, a massive private reserve supporting lions, elephants, and endangered species.

Explore Zimbabwe game reserves below.

Zimbabwe Community Reserves – Safaris That Support People and Wildlife

Experience Zimbabwe’s community reserves—wild places managed by local people, where conservation and tourism work hand in hand.

Community reserves in Zimbabwe are wildlife areas owned or co-managed by rural communities. These reserves are often part of the CAMPFIRE programme (Communal Areas Management Programme for Indigenous Resources), which allows local communities to benefit directly from safari tourism and conservation. Wildlife is free-roaming, and experiences may include game drives, village visits, and cultural interactions.

Pros include authentic encounters, lower tourism density, and direct local impact. Cons may include less developed infrastructure and variation in guiding standards. Rules are generally similar to other reserves, but experiences tend to be more personal and rooted in local culture.

Notable examples include areas near Mahenye in the southeast, bordering Gonarezhou National Park, and Chizarira buffer zones, where tourism helps support conservation in remote regions.

Explore Zimbabwe community reserves below.

Zimbabwe Private Reserves – Exclusive Safaris in Protected Wilderness

Step into Zimbabwe’s private reserves—highly managed, conservation-focused areas where luxury and wildlife meet in remote, uncrowded settings.

Private reserves in Zimbabwe are owned and operated by individuals, NGOs, or private companies. These areas are governed independently but must comply with national conservation laws. They offer more flexibility in activities and guest experience, with off-road driving, night safaris, walking safaris, and tailored itineraries all possible. Many private reserves are deeply involved in conservation, anti-poaching, and wildlife research.

Pros include exclusivity, personalised service, and access to expert guides. Cons can include higher costs and limited availability. Rules vary by reserve, but experiences tend to be immersive, guided, and flexible—ideal for travellers seeking deeper engagement and fewer crowds.

Top examples include Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, home to rhino and rare bird species; Bubiana Conservancy, and parts of Savé Valley Conservancy, which offer luxury lodges and strong conservation credentials.

Explore Zimbabwe private reserves below.

Zimbabwe Safari Circuits – Connected Journeys Across Wild Landscapes

Plan a seamless safari through Zimbabwe’s top regions by following well-established safari circuits that combine wildlife, scenery, and travel efficiency.

A safari circuit is a curated travel route that links multiple wildlife areas or parks into a single itinerary. These circuits are designed to maximise game viewing, reduce travel time, and showcase the diversity of Zimbabwe’s landscapes. Travellers move between destinations by road or air, often staying in a mix of national parks, private reserves, and cultural hubs.

Popular circuits include:

• Victoria Falls → Hwange National Park → Mana Pools – a classic route combining big game, river safaris, and the Falls.
• Gonarezhou → Malilangwe → Great Zimbabwe Ruins – ideal for remote wilderness lovers and cultural travellers.
• Matobo Hills → Hwange → Zambezi River – blending history, rhino tracking, and water-based wildlife.

Safari circuits help simplify planning while offering a deeper and more varied experience of Zimbabwe’s safari offerings.

Explore Zimbabwe safari circuits below.

Zimbabwe Safari Accommodation – From Remote Bush Camps to Luxury Lodges

Find your place to stay in Zimbabwe’s wild spaces, with accommodation options to suit every style, budget, and level of exclusivity.

Zimbabwe offers a wide range of safari accommodation—from simple bush camps to high-end luxury lodges. Most properties are located within or near national parks, private reserves, or along major safari circuits. Accommodation styles vary: tented camps provide an immersive wilderness feel, eco-lodges focus on sustainability, and luxury lodges offer top-tier service, fine dining, and private guides.

Price points range from $150–$350 per person per night at mid-range camps, to $500+ per person per night for exclusive high-end lodges. Some properties focus on shared game drives and communal dining, while others offer private vehicles, personalised itineraries, and total seclusion. Whether you’re looking for affordability, romance, or a full-service experience, Zimbabwe’s safari stays are known for their warm hospitality and exceptional guiding.

Explore Zimbabwe accommodations below.

Zimbabwe Safari Activities – Adventure in Every Form

Discover the variety of safari activities Zimbabwe has to offer, from classic game drives to unique river and walking experiences.

Zimbabwe is known for its rich mix of safari activities across diverse landscapes. Game drives are the most common way to explore, especially in parks like Hwange and Gonarezhou. For something more immersive, walking safaris are a highlight—led by some of Africa’s best-trained guides. In Mana Pools and along the Zambezi River, canoe safaris allow for up-close views of elephants, hippos, and birdlife from the water. Night drives, birding excursions, cultural visits, and photographic safaris round out the experience, offering both thrill and depth depending on where you go.

Activities vary by area, but most focus on freedom, wildlife, and connecting closely with nature—often with fewer crowds than other safari destinations.

Explore activities available in Zimbabwe below.

Zimbabwe Wildlife – Big Game, Rare Species, and Wild Encounters

Meet the animals that make Zimbabwe one of Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations, from iconic Big Five species to endangered predators and unique birdlife.

Zimbabwe is home to a wide range of free-roaming wildlife. You can expect to see elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, and sometimes rhinos, especially in areas like Hwange, Mana Pools, Malilangwe, and Save Valley. The country is also known for African wild dogs, one of the continent’s rarest predators. Plains game like zebra, giraffe, and antelope are common, while hippos and crocodiles dominate river zones. For birders, Zimbabwe offers over 650 bird species, including specials like the African skimmer and racket-tailed roller.

Wildlife is best viewed in its natural state—no enclosures, no feeding—just real animal behaviour in vast open ecosystems.

Explore Zimbabwe wildlife below.

Zimbabwe Birdlife – A Haven for African Birdwatchers

Explore Zimbabwe’s diverse birdlife, from colourful endemics to river specialists and rare migratory visitors.

With over 650 recorded bird species, Zimbabwe is one of southern Africa’s top birding destinations. Its varied habitats—rivers, forests, woodlands, and grasslands—attract a wide range of resident and migratory birds. Popular sightings include lilac-breasted rollers, southern ground hornbills, African fish eagles, and kingfishers along the Zambezi River. Zimbabwe is also a stronghold for rarer species like the Pel’s fishing owl, African skimmer, and racket-tailed roller. Areas like Mana Pools, Hwange, and Chizarira offer excellent birdwatching alongside big game sightings, making the country ideal for both casual and serious birders.

Explore Zimbabwe birdlife below.

Top Cities in Zimbabwe – Culture, History, and Gateways to the Wild

Get to know Zimbabwe’s most popular cities—each offering a mix of culture, history, and easy access to nearby safari areas.

Zimbabwe’s cities are more than just stopovers—they’re part of the journey. Harare, the capital, is a lively city with botanical gardens, craft markets, and a growing food scene. Bulawayo, the country’s second-largest city, is known for its colonial architecture and museums, and acts as a gateway to Matobo Hills National Park. Then there’s Victoria Falls Town, a small but iconic destination offering easy access to the falls and nearby safari areas like Hwange and Zambezi National Park. Each city provides a different lens into Zimbabwean life, blending modern comforts with local charm.

Explore Zimbabwe cities below.

Major Airports in Zimbabwe – Gateway to Adventure

Arrive with ease through Zimbabwe’s key airports, connecting you to national parks, cities, and iconic attractions like Victoria Falls.

Zimbabwe’s main international and domestic airports make travel to and within the country accessible for safari-goers. Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (Harare) is the largest and busiest, serving as the country’s main entry point. Victoria Falls International Airport is popular for safari travellers and those visiting the falls, with flights from regional hubs like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Nairobi. Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (Bulawayo) offers connections to the southwest and parks like Matobo and Hwange. Several small airstrips also serve bush camps and private reserves, especially in areas like Mana Pools and Gonarezhou.

Explore Zimbabwe airports below.

Zimbabwe Weather and Climate – Seasons That Shape Your Safari

Understand Zimbabwe’s weather patterns to choose the right time for your safari—from dry season wildlife action to lush green landscapes in the rains.

Zimbabwe has a subtropical climate, with warm, dry winters and hot, wet summers. The dry season (May to October) is the best time to visit for safaris. During this period, temperatures are mild, vegetation is sparse, and animals gather around water sources—making wildlife easier to find, especially in parks like Hwange and Mana Pools. The green season (November to April) brings summer rains, which transform the landscape and attract migratory birds, but wildlife can be harder to spot and some remote areas may become inaccessible.

If you're after top game viewing with fewer crowds, aim for the shoulder months of May, June, or October—offering excellent sightings and pleasant weather.

Explore Zimbabwe weather and climate below.

Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe – Timing Your Safari for the Best Experience

Plan your Zimbabwe safari around the seasons to get the most from wildlife sightings, weather conditions, and access to remote areas.

The best time to visit Zimbabwe for safari is during the dry season from May to October. This is when temperatures are comfortable, vegetation thins out, and wildlife gathers around water sources—making sightings more frequent and predictable. Parks like Hwange, Mana Pools, and Gonarezhou offer the best game viewing during this period. October is especially good for predator action, while June to August provides cool mornings and low humidity.

The green season (November to April) is considered low season. While some roads may become muddy and certain areas less accessible, this time brings lush scenery, dramatic skies, and excellent birdwatching with migratory species present. It’s also a quieter and more affordable time to travel.

Explore Zimbabwe best time to visit below.

How to Get to Zimbabwe Safari Regions – Flights, Transfers, and Travel Tips

Understand how to reach Zimbabwe’s top safari areas with ease, from international arrivals to bush transfers and overland options.

Getting to Zimbabwe’s safari regions typically starts with flying into one of the country’s three main airports: Harare, Victoria Falls, or Bulawayo. From there, travellers can connect to national parks and reserves via domestic flights, private charters, or 4x4 road transfers. Victoria Falls is the most popular entry point for safaris in Hwange and Zambezi National Park, while Harare is best for accessing Mana Pools, Gonarezhou, and eastern circuits. Some remote areas require charter flights or longer drives, but transfers are often arranged by lodges or tour operators to simplify the journey.

Explore how to get to Zimbabwe below.

Zimbabwe Visa Requirements – What You Need to Know Before You Travel

Understand the visa process for Zimbabwe and what’s required for a smooth entry—whether you're visiting for safari, adventure, or cultural travel.

Zimbabwe has a three-tier visa system based on nationality. Many travellers can obtain a visa on arrival or apply in advance through the eVisa platform. Some countries are visa-exempt, while others may need to apply before travelling. Visa fees vary by type, with single-entry, double-entry, and KAZA Univisa options available—the latter allowing access to both Zimbabwe and Zambia, perfect for trips that include Victoria Falls. Payment is typically made in USD cash upon arrival. It's recommended to check your eligibility and carry a passport with at least six months’ validity and blank pages.

Explore Zimbabwe visa information below.

Malaria and Vaccination Information for Zimbabwe – Stay Healthy on Safari

Be prepared for your trip to Zimbabwe with key health guidelines, including malaria precautions and recommended vaccinations for safe travel.

Malaria is present in most of Zimbabwe’s safari regions, especially in low-lying areas like Hwange, Mana Pools, and the Zambezi Valley. Travellers are strongly advised to take antimalarial medication, use insect repellent, and sleep under mosquito nets where provided. No vaccines are required for entry into Zimbabwe, but common recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Rabies for extended stays. A Yellow Fever certificate is only required if arriving from a country where the disease is present.

Explore Zimbabwe malaria and vaccination information below.