Top Ten Attractions in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a colourful country endowed with so much natural beauty in its landscapes, plants and wildlife. With a variety of beautiful places of interest offering unique experiences. Zimbabwe also has some highly acclaimed cultural and historical monuments. These recreational sites or resorts are popular destinations for many. Here is our List of Top Ten attractions in Zimbabwe.
 
10 MATOPOS
Matopos or the Matobo hills are an extensive granite rock out outcrop which was formed thousands of years ago. These impressive kopjes stretch for over 30 kilometres. They are located in the Matobo National Park in Bulawayo and they have a historical and cultural significance to Zimbabwe.  Historical because they were a Ndebele stronghold in the 1800 ‘s and were the site of the second Ndebele war. The great colonialist Cecil John Rhodes is buried in the area as well. The hills have archaeological relevance as they prove the existence of San communities in the region as there are several rock paintings which are over 2000 years old.

The national park is rich in wildlife as well and visitors will have much to see including, Sable, hyenas, giraffe and the white Rhino. Visitors can enjoy a horseback safari which enables you to get up close to the wildlife as well as camping overnight in the beautiful African surroundings. A visit to Matopos will be eye opening and a definite must see for those keen to explore some local history.

9 MUTARAZI FALLS
The Mutarazi Falls are the highest waterfall in Zimbabwe falling at a whopping 762 Metres. They are not wide by world standards but they are a place of awesome beauty, they are found on the Mutarazi river which runs through the fertile and stunning Nyanga National Park in the Eastern Highlands Province of Zimbabwe. Adventure activities to expect are, hiking in the area surrounding the Falls, wild water rafting, and kayaking.  

8. CHINHOYI CAVES
A place of geological interest these dolomite and limestone caves are an intriguing place whose main attraction is a deep blue natural pool; they say the Sleeping pool as it is called, maintains the same temperature all year round. The caves have a mystical appeal about them as local elders believe they are sacred. A visit to Chinhoyi caves will be a chance to hear about the historical significance of the caves as well as folklore surrounding this mysterious place.

7. CHIMANIMANI
Hiking in the Chimanimani Mountains - The Chimanimani Mountains form Zimbabwe’s border with Mozambique in the Eastern Highlands part of the country. They are an ideal place for hikers, as they are Zimbabwe’s highest Quartzite peaks with amazing views. Chimanimani is also home to the impressive Bridal Veil Falls. Visitors can also go exploring in neighbouring Chipinge. Many rare species of trees are found in the Chirinda forest such as wild orchids and cycads. Another big attraction is the Big Tree which is a red mahogany that is over a thousand years old!!
 
6. HARARE
The Domboshava Caves are the perfect place for a day outing if you are in Harare. A family friendly place which combines some natural beauty, boundless outdoor space to stretch your legs and just far enough from the hustle bustle of the Capital. Domboshava is some 28kilometres from Harare; the Hills are a historical and cultural monument. The Caves are located on a granite hill which features some impressive stone age rock paintings. Fun activities to do include picnics, walks, curio shopping and the Hill is a great sunset view location!
 
5. VUMBA
The Vumba mountains are a scenic place in the Eastern highlands, southwest of Mutare. A lush place which experiences a pleasantly cool climate almost all year round. Vumba has some stunning valleys, mountain views and awesome hiking trails through lush forests. The Vumba is also home to an impressive botanical garden which has a rich collection of azaleas, orchids, proteas and many more flower/plant species. Not too far from the Mountains in Vumba, is Leopard Rock Hotel that has one of the most stunning golf courses in the world, with breath-taking views at every hole!!
 
4. MASVINGO
The Great Zimbabwe Ruins are a historical site which is well worth a visit, the stone buildings were built in the 11th century and consist entirely of stone with no mortar and are one of the oldest ruins in Southern Africa. The large stone city was a thriving political centre during that era. The name Zimbabwe came from the stone structures which are known as ‘’dzimba dzamabwe’ which means houses of Stone. The Masvingo ruins became a World Heritage Site in 1986. Visitors will get a chance to explore this ancient city and hear a little about the people who occupied it. Great Zimbabwe is located close to the town of Masvingo found in the central areas of Zimbabwe.
 
3. HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Hwange is the largest wildlife Park in Zimbabwe, it is teeming with different animals from lions, giraffe, wildebeest, over 100 mammal species in all. Hwange also has the largest elephant population in Zimbabwe. The park offers rugged camping sites as well as developed facilities, picnic sites and hosts several luxury lodges. Visitors to the park will enjoy walking safaris, trekking the painted dog, birding, camping under the stars, game drives and cultural visits to surrounding villages.
 
2. KARIBA
The best way to experience the beautiful lake Kariba is a houseboat weekend, a unique way to relax and enjoy the water up-close, a definite must try when visiting Zimbabwe. If you have more time, spend five days on a houseboat, parking every night in a different spot to view the game in the Matusadona National Park, allowing you to get very close to the wild life. Enjoy fishing off the small tender boats provided during the day, and then relax on the comfortable deck at night and enjoy the sunset and sounds of nature surrounding you!! 

For more information on hiring houseboats, contact My Guide Zimbabwe and we can organize caterers to take care of all your food requirements. A trip to Kariba is incomplete if one does not visit the Dam site where guides will gladly share more on the Nyaminyami snake God, a mythical entity which locals believe protects the area and lived in the waters years ago.
  
1 VICTORIA FALLS
Victoria Falls is Zimbabwe’s most popular holiday resort. The next best thing after visiting the Victoria Falls on foot and walking through the rain forest is to fly over the falls in a helicopter. This exhilarating adventure is known as the "Flight of the Angels". The flight lasts approx. 15 minutes, and gives you a breath-taking aerial view of the thunderous Falls. The helicopter is able to fly lower than most other planes, giving you the best views of the falls from both directions!!

For the brave thrill seekers Bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge is also amazing. Thousands of people have enjoyed this complete adrenaline pumping sport!! Ankle and body harnesses joined to a rope are attached to you, and then you dive head first off the 111m high bridge towards the mighty Zambezi River down below. After jumping you are winched back up onto the Victoria Falls Bridge and will be given photographic evidence of your achievement.