Zimbabwe is a beautiful country located in southern Africa that offers a wide range of attractions for tourists. From stunning natural landscapes to historical sites and cultural experiences. With its friendly people and beautiful landscapes, it is a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.
In this article, we will explore some of the top things to see and do in Zimbabwe for tourists.
History
Zimbabwe has a population of over 14 million people, with the majority of the population residing in urban areas. The country has a rich history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Stone Age. The most notable ancient civilization in Zimbabwe was the Kingdom of Zimbabwe, which flourished from the 11th to the 15th century. The kingdom was known for its impressive architecture, including the Great Zimbabwe ruins, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins are a testament to the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the Shona people, and provide a fascinating glimpse into their culture and way of life.
In 1980, Zimbabwe gained independence from British colonial rule and became a republic. Zimbabwe’s economy is largely based on agriculture, mining, and tourism.
Nature
One of the most iconic landscapes in Zimbabwe is the savanna. This vast grassland is home to many large mammals, such as elephants, lions, and giraffes. The savanna is characterized by its tall grasses and scattered trees, which provide shade for the animals that live there. The country has over 6,000 plant species, many of which are endemic to the region. The baobab tree, for example, is a common sight in Zimbabwe’s savannas and can live for over 1,000 years. The mopane tree is another iconic species, with its distinctive butterfly-shaped leaves. Visitors to Zimbabwe can experience the savanna by taking a safari tour, where they can see these majestic creatures up close.
Another feature of Zimbabwe’s nature is its mountains, including the Eastern Highlands and the Chimanimani Mountains. These mountains are covered in lush forests and are home to many unique plant and animal species. Hiking trails wind through these mountains, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Zimbabwe is also home to several national parks, which are dedicated to preserving the country’s wildlife and natural beauty. One of the most famous parks is Hwange National Park, which is home to over 100 mammal species, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo). The park also has over 400 bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. Visitors can go on game drives or guided walks to see these animals up close and learn about their behaviour and habitat.
In addition to its wildlife, Zimbabwe is known for its beautiful waterfalls and rivers, including Lake Kariba, the largest man-made lake in the world. The lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, as well as scenic cruises to see the surrounding wildlife and landscapes. Located on the Zambezi River, the Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a helicopter tour over the falls, go bungee jumping or white-water rafting in the rapids below, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the trails that lead to various viewpoints. This massive waterfall is over a 1,5 km wide and drops over 100 meters into the Zambezi River below.
Culture
Zimbabwe is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional dance, art forms and music, with genres such as Chimurenga and Mbira being popular. Chimurenga currently means a fight for fundamental human rights, political respect, and fairness in society, while mbira instruments are a group of traditional musical instruments that belong to the Shona people and are made up of a wooden board with metal tines attached to it, which are played by plucking them with the thumbs and sometimes the forefingers.
Visitors can experience this culture firsthand by attending live performances and visiting art galleries and craft markets. Traditional music and dance performances you can enjoy at venues such as The Amakhosi Cultural Centre while The National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Harare features contemporary African art.
For those interested in spirituality and healing, Zimbabwe is home to several traditional healers and spiritual practitioners who offer services such as herbal remedies, divination, and spiritual counselling. Visitors can learn about these practices and their cultural significance at centers such as, the Chitungwiza Arts Centre.
Finally, no trip to Zimbabwe would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine. Zimbabwean food is a fusion of African and European influences, with dishes such as sadza (a maize porridge), biltong (dried meat), and chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish). Visitors can sample these and other dishes at restaurants and markets throughout the country.
Zimbabwe offers a wealth of attractions for tourists, from natural wonders to cultural experiences and historical sites. Whether you are interested in wildlife, history, or simply soaking up the local culture, Zimbabwe has something to offer. So why not plan your next vacation to this beautiful and fascinating country?
