If you take the road less travelled through Africa, you will most likely find yourself exploring the wild heart of Zimbabwe. While most travellers flock to the big-name parks in neighbouring countries, Zimbabwe remains one of the best-kept secrets for those who want to enjoy their safari without the crowds.
From the thunderous roar of Victoria Falls to the silent, misty floodplains of the Zambezi, this is a destination for those who want to reconnect with nature in its purest form. If you’re looking to trade the Big Five checklist for a deeper immersion into the wild, here are some of the best things to do in Zimbabwe.
Witness the Majesty of Victoria Falls
No trip to Zimbabwe is complete without visiting Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders). Beyond being one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is a massive adrenaline hub. You can bungee jump off the Victoria Falls Bridge, enjoy white-water rafting on the Zambezi rapids, or take to the sky to see the scale of the falls from above. For a more grounded experience, you can walk the rainforest trails and savour the incredible views of the main curtain of water.
Track Huge Elephant Herds in Hwange National Park
Just a short drive from the Falls is Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve. Hwange is famous for its massive elephant herds, which are among the largest on the planet. For the most authentic experience, head to the northern sector near the Robins Airstrip. This rugged and remote area makes it much easier to spot lions, hyenas, and the elusive cheetah during the dry season (May to October).
Take a Walking Safari in Mana Pools
For a truly off-the-grid experience, Mana Pools National Park awaits to whisk you away from the city buzz. Located in the far north on the banks of the Zambezi River, this UNESCO World Heritage site is legendary among safari enthusiasts.
It is one of the few places in Africa where you can safely walk through the wilderness with a professional guide. Being on foot allows you to focus on the smaller details of the bush. You’ll track wild dogs and learn about the flora that you’d otherwise miss from a vehicle.
Canoe Down the Zambezi River
To experience the true serenity of the Mana Pools, you’ll need to take to the water. Canoeing down the Zambezi brings you close enough to glide past pods of hippos and watch elephants drinking at the water’s edge. It is a quiet and immersive way to experience the riverine ecosystem without the rumble of a 4×4 engine.
Find Total Isolation in the Mhara River Region
If complete solitude sounds like your idea of luxury, then the private concessions on the southern side of Mana Pools were made just for you. Because these areas have restricted access, wildlife sightings will feel personal. This region is also a birder’s paradise, especially towards the end of the year when migratory species arrive. It remains a hotspot for predators like lions and wild dogs.
Enjoy a Bush Dinner Under the Stars
One of the most iconic Zimbabwean experiences is a bush dinner on a dry riverbed. Away from the lights of any town or lodge, the southern concessions offer a chance to dine under a canopy of stars while listening to the distant roar of lions. It’s a beautiful reminder of just how vast and untamed this country can be.
Conclusion
Zimbabwe offers an authentic safari experience that is becoming harder to find elsewhere on the continent. It’s a country where the focus of your experience is on the connection you feel to the land. Whether you’re navigating the Zambezi by canoe or tracking elephants on foot in Hwange, a trip here is a journey into an untamed side of Africa. If you’re ready to skip the crowds and embrace the raw wilderness, Zimbabwe waits for you.
