MASVINGO; GREAT ZIMBABWE MONUMENT TOUR - FROM HARARE
Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe
Great Zimbabwe Ruins are a unique testimony to the lost civilization between the 11th and 15th centuries. The ruins are the largest South of the Sahara. Trips can start from Harare or Bulawayo
Great Zimbabwe Day Trip from Harare
This day trip from Harare to Great Zimbabwe is ideal for history and culture enthusiasts interested in the Shona civilization and ancient ruins.
Description
The ruins of Great Zimbabwe represent the remains of the Shona civilization between the 11th and 15th centuries. They are the second largest ruins in Africa after the Pyramids of Egypt and the largest south of the Sahara. The Great Zimbabwe National Monument is located about 40 km from Masvingo town.
The trip covers approximately 338 km each way by road, taking around four hours. The full tour duration, including travel time, is 12 to 13 hours. Departure from Harare is at 06:00, arriving in Masvingo at approximately 10:00 with a brief stop for refreshments. From Masvingo, the monument is about 40 km away.
You may choose to stop in Masvingo to buy food at local takeaways or have lunch at Great Zimbabwe Hotel near the ruins. It is recommended to complete the monument tour before lunch.
The Great Zimbabwe Monument tour includes:
- Climbing the Hill Complex
- Visiting the Museum
- Touring the Great Enclosure and Valley Ruins
After the tour, departure is soon after. There is an option to stay overnight near the ruins at Great Zimbabwe Hotel or Lodge at the Ancient City at your own cost. You are dropped off back at your hotel upon arrival in Harare.
The Great Zimbabwe Monument
The name Zimbabwe means 'big house made of stones,' derived from the Great Zimbabwe National Monuments. The site is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a symbol for the nation, featuring the Zimbabwe Bird as an emblem, which may have been a royal totem.
The monument sits in the lowveld near Masvingo, at 1100 meters altitude in a region populated by Bantu/Shona people. Constructed between 1100 and 1450 AD, the site spans almost 800 hectares divided into three main groups: the Hill Ruins, the Great Enclosure, and the Valley Ruins.
Includes
- Road trip from Harare to Great Zimbabwe, departing between 06:30 and 07:30 (time adjustable)
- Sightseeing stops along the route
- Mineral water and refreshments during the trip
- Brief rest stops en route
- Monument tour with a curator guide providing detailed history, culture, and construction insights
- Tour entry fees included
- Lunch options at the local hotel near the monument or in Masvingo on return
- Return to Harare by approximately 07:30 the following day, depending on departure time, weather, and traffic
Excludes
- Any extras not listed in the inclusions
- Overnight accommodation costs if opting to stay at Great Zimbabwe Hotel or Lodge, with departure the next day
Important Information
- Minimum of 2 people per tour
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tips
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water. Early booking is advised, especially if you want to stay overnight. The best time to visit is during the dry season for easier travel and better weather at the site.
