Best things to do in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe pairs one of the world's great natural wonders — Victoria Falls — with big-game safari country and ancient stone ruins. Most trips centre on the falls, with time on the Zambezi River and in nearby national parks.
Zimbabwe at a glance
- What is the number one thing to do in Zimbabwe?
- Seeing Victoria Falls from the rainforest viewpoints on the Zimbabwean side — the country's signature experience and one of Africa's most-visited natural sights.
- Can I combine Zimbabwe with Botswana or Zambia?
- Yes. Victoria Falls sits minutes from the Zambian border (Livingstone) and about an hour from Chobe in Botswana, and many itineraries combine all three.
- Is Zimbabwe good for a first safari?
- Yes. Hwange National Park offers classic game viewing within easy reach of Victoria Falls, so you can pair the falls with a first safari in a single short trip.
Destinations in Zimbabwe
The highlights
1. Victoria Falls
The headline sight: roughly a mile of falling water on the Zambezi, viewable from rainforest paths on the Zimbabwean side. The falls change character through the year — a thundering curtain after the rains, clearer views of the rock face in the dry months.
2. Zambezi River experiences
Sunset cruises above the falls, canoeing, and white-water rafting below them in the Batoka Gorge are the classic ways to get on the river.
3. Safari in Hwange and beyond
Hwange National Park, a few hours from the falls, is known for large elephant herds. Guided game drives from Victoria Falls make it reachable as a day or overnight trip.
4. Great Zimbabwe and Matobo Hills
Further afield, the medieval stone city of Great Zimbabwe and the balancing granite rocks of the Matobo Hills reward travellers with more time in the country.
Planning your trip
How long to spend in Zimbabwe
Two to three days covers Victoria Falls town comfortably: the falls themselves, a river cruise and one adventure activity. Add two or more nights if you want a Hwange safari or a side trip into Botswana or Zambia, which are commonly combined with the falls.
Getting around
Most visitors fly into Victoria Falls Airport and use lodge transfers and guided tours from there. The town itself is small and walkable, and activities typically include hotel pickup.
Frequently asked questions about Zimbabwe
What is the number one thing to do in Zimbabwe?
Seeing Victoria Falls from the rainforest viewpoints on the Zimbabwean side — the country's signature experience and one of Africa's most-visited natural sights.
Can I combine Zimbabwe with Botswana or Zambia?
Yes. Victoria Falls sits minutes from the Zambian border (Livingstone) and about an hour from Chobe in Botswana, and many itineraries combine all three.
Is Zimbabwe good for a first safari?
Yes. Hwange National Park offers classic game viewing within easy reach of Victoria Falls, so you can pair the falls with a first safari in a single short trip.
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