Things to do in Zimbabwe

What to see and do in Zimbabwe: a shorter list of 25 experiences, not yet checked against sources.

25 things to do in Zimbabwe

Nature

Watch the sunset over Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls

Stand at the edge of the world's largest sheet of falling water as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow on the mist and rainbow.

Nature

Safari in Hwange National Park

Hwange

Explore one of Africa's largest game reserves, home to over 100 mammal species including massive elephant herds, on a guided game drive or walking safari.

History

Tour the Great Zimbabwe ruins

Masvingo

Wander through the ancient stone city of Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe during the Late Iron Age.

Adventure

Cruise on Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba

Take a houseboat cruise on Lake Kariba, one of the world's largest man-made lakes, and spot hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife against a backdrop of stunning sunsets.

Adventure

Walk with lions in Antelope Park

Gweru

Engage in a unique wildlife experience at Antelope Park near Gweru, where you can walk alongside lions and learn about conservation efforts.

Nature

Explore the Matobo Hills

Bulawayo

Discover the dramatic granite kopjes and ancient San rock art of Matobo Hills, a UNESCO site with spiritual significance and home to a high concentration of leopard.

Nature

Hike in Nyanga National Park

Nyanga

Trek through the lush landscapes of Nyanga National Park in the Eastern Highlands, featuring waterfalls, mountains, and the highest peak in Zimbabwe, Mount Nyangani.

Food

Experience traditional Zimbabwean cuisine at Mukuvisi Woodlands

Harare

Sample sadza, grilled meats, and other local dishes at a cultural village in Mukuvisi Woodlands, while learning about traditional cooking methods.

Culture

Attend the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA)

Harare

Immerse yourself in Zimbabwe's vibrant arts scene at HIFA, an annual festival featuring music, theatre, dance, and visual arts from across Africa.

History

Visit the Bulawayo Railway Museum

Bulawayo

Step back in time at the Bulawayo Railway Museum, home to a collection of vintage locomotives and railway memorabilia from Zimbabwe's colonial past.

Nature

Explore the Chinhoyi Caves

Chinhoyi

Marvel at the stunning limestone formations and underground pools of Chinhoyi Caves, a network of caves with historical significance and natural beauty.

Adventure

Go bungee jumping at Victoria Falls Bridge

Victoria Falls

Take a thrilling leap from the Victoria Falls Bridge, bungee jumping over the Zambezi River with the thundering falls as your backdrop.

History

Visit the Mutare Museum

Mutare

Learn about the natural and cultural history of the Eastern Highlands at the Mutare Museum, with exhibits on geology, archaeology, and local traditions.

Culture

Attend a mbira music performance

Various locations

Listen to the haunting sounds of the mbira, a traditional Zimbabwean instrument, at a live performance in a cultural setting, often accompanied by singing and dancing.

City

Shop at the Mbare Musika market in Harare

Harare

Experience the bustling energy of Mbare Musika, one of Harare's largest markets, where you can buy fresh produce, crafts, and local goods.

Hidden gem

Relax at Troutbeck Resort in Nyanga

Nyanga

Unwind at Troutbeck Resort, a historic hotel in the Nyanga mountains, offering trout fishing, horse riding, and serene mountain views.

History

Visit the Khami Ruins

Bulawayo

Explore the Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Bulawayo, showcasing the architecture of the Butua state after the decline of Great Zimbabwe.

Food

Try sadza and relish at a local restaurant

Various locations

Taste Zimbabwe's staple food, sadza (cornmeal porridge), served with a variety of relishes like beef stew, vegetables, or kapenta fish.

Adventure

Go white-water rafting on the Zambezi River

Victoria Falls

Paddle through the rapids below Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River, navigating challenging waves and enjoying the spectacular scenery.

City

Visit the Harare Gardens

Harare

Stroll through the Harare Gardens, a peaceful green space in the city center with lush plants, sculptures, and a serene atmosphere for relaxation.

Nature

Explore the Chilojo Cliffs in Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou

Gaze at the magnificent Chilojo Cliffs, towering red sandstone formations in Gonarezhou National Park, which is part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park.

Culture

Attend a traditional dance performance

Various locations

Watch energetic and colorful traditional dances like the Jerusarema or Mbende, performed by local groups to celebrate cultural heritage.

Nature

Visit the Balancing Rocks in Epworth

Epworth

See the iconic Balancing Rocks near Harare, a geological formation of precariously balanced granite boulders that have become a symbol of Zimbabwe.

Nightlife

Explore the nightlife in Harare

Harare

Experience Harare's vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and live music venues offering a mix of local and international sounds.

Nearby destinations

All destinations