Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe Safaris
Zimbabwe - a treasure trove of breathtaking wilderness, vibrant wildlife, and awe-inspiring natural wonders. From the iconic Victoria Falls, where the mighty Zambezi River plunges into dramatic gorges, to the serene waters of Lake Kariba and the untamed beauty of Hwange and Mana Pools, Zimbabwe is a safari destination like no other. Explore the vast savannahs of Hwange National Park, home to one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, or paddle along the tranquil channels of the Lower Zambezi, where hippos and crocodiles linger at every turn.
Explore Zimbabwe
Destinations in Zimbabwe
Eastern Highlands
Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands offer a dramatic departure from the traditional savannah, characterized by a rugged mountain spine that defines the border with Mozambique. This cool-temperate region encompasses the rolling grasslands of Nyanga, the soaring granite peaks of the Chimanimani range, and the verdant botanical diversity of the Bvumba. Here, the landscape is defined by mist-shrouded peaks, sheer basalt cliffs, and ancient forests fed by high annual rainfall. It is a destination focused on altitude and topography, providing a stark geographic contrast to the low-lying Zambezi Valley. Travelers can expect a sophisticated outdoor experience centred on active exploration and privacy. The region is a haven for birders, home to rare species such as the Swynnerton’s robin and the Livingstone’s turaco. Beyond birding, the terrain facilitates world-class hiking, fly-fishing for rainbow trout in pristine streams, and visits to the 762-foot Mutarazi Falls. It is a refined sanctuary for those seeking seclusion, temperate climates, and the understated elegance of Zimbabwe’s high-altitude wilderness.
Hwange National Park
Situated only 3 hours' drive south of Victoria Falls, and bordering Botswana to the west, Hwange National Park has become famous for its wildlife density and enormous elephant population. Due to the arid region, the park is an incredible dry season safari destination, with animals converging on the many man-made water holes, and game viewing being especially rewarding. With over 100 species of mammals, and 400 species of birds, Hwange National Park is sure to provide you with some excellent photo's and is a great inclusion on a Zimbabwe safari itinerary.
Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe)
Africa's largest dam, at 226 kilometres long and up to 40 kilometres wide, Lake Kariba is a brilliant location to wind down with some stunning scenery, idyllic cruises, beautiful sunsets, and relaxed fishing. Water sports can be enjoyed, or just spend time drifting along in a houseboat, watching the world sail by.
Mana Pools National Park
On the southern banks of the Zambezi River, across the water from the Lower Zambezi National Park, lies the legendary Mana Pools National Park. With "mana" meaning "4", the park is named after the 4 main pools cut off from the Zambezi on its floodplains, which attract an enormous amount of wildlife. Still largely undeveloped, the area is a true wilderness, and offers exciting activities allowing travellers to explore Africa as it was in days gone by. Only accessible by vehicle during the dry season, in the rains the park has to be accessed by foot or boat only. Recently added scheduled flights from Victoria Falls have made getting to Mana Pools a bit less costly, so it is a great time to be venturing into this wonderful wildlife haven.
Matabeleland South
Matabeleland South is a captivating region of southwestern Zimbabwe, known for its dramatic granite landscapes, sweeping savannahs and deep cultural heritage. At its heart lie the remarkable Matobo Hills, where enormous balancing boulders, wooded valleys and ancient San rock paintings create one of Africa’s most distinctive landscapes. The region’s rich history and strong Ndebele traditions add a fascinating cultural dimension to its natural beauty. Visitors can explore Matobo National Park in search of both black and white rhino, discover centuries-old archaeological and spiritual sites, or simply enjoy the serenity of its rugged wilderness. Far removed from Zimbabwe’s busier tourism centres, Matabeleland South offers an intimate and rewarding experience for travellers drawn to wildlife, history, culture and extraordinary scenery.
Matobo National Park
About 30 kilometres south of Bulawayo, Matobo National Park is visited for its other-worldly rocky landscapes, historical and cultural significance, wildlife sightings, bushman paintings and walking excursions. Combining well with Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls in the north, and the Great Zimbabwe Ruins to the east, Matobo National Park offers something a bit different from the usual safari and wildlife areas. Historically, Matobo plays a big part in Zimbabwe, with the name Matobo meaning 'bald heads' being chosen for the area by the great Ndebele King, Mzilikazi.
Victoria Falls
"Mosi Oa Tunya", or "The Smoke That Thunders", Victoria Falls are as magnificent on the 10th visit as they are on the 1st, and their thundering roar makes everything else seem strangely quiet once you leave them behind. As the mighty Zambezi flows over a chasm of 1 mile wide, and 110 metres high, to violently crash on the rocks below, the resultant spray is sent tens of metres up into the air, before it lands back down in a continuous rainfall. The water then rushes through an opening of only 50 metres, as the Zambezi races further along, over churning rapids and through the deep Batoka Gorge.
Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe
Month-by-month travel guide with weather, highlights, and expert recommendations.
Compare with other destinationsZimbabwe in August
Weather
August continues the dry season, with temperatures gradually increasing to 18-25°C. Nights are still cool but less so than July, with no rainfall.
Highlights
Game viewing remains phenomenal as animals are highly concentrated around water. Predator sightings are frequent.
Best Areas
All major national parks, including Hwange, Mana Pools, and Gonarezhou, offer exceptional wildlife experiences.
Pros
Excellent game viewing, pleasant daytime temperatures, and minimal malaria risk. Safari activities are in full swing.
Cons
Can be dusty, and peak season crowds start to arrive. Victoria Falls flow is low, especially on the Zambian side.