Wild landscapes, iconic wildlife, & natural heritage

Zimbabwe is a country of striking natural contrasts, home to one of the world’s most renowned waterfalls and some of southern Africa’s most rewarding wildlife areas. From the powerful flow of the Zambezi River at Victoria Falls to the vast plains of Hwange and the riverine wilderness of Mana Pools, Zimbabwe offers an authentic and immersive safari experience.

At the heart of the country’s natural appeal is Victoria Falls, where the Zambezi River plunges into a deep gorge, forming the world’s largest sheet of falling water. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders,” the falls are not only visually spectacular but also form part of a larger protected area that supports adventure tourism, scenic viewpoints, and access to river-based activities such as rafting and sunset cruises.

Flowing east from the falls, the Zambezi River continues its journey, defining much of Zimbabwe’s northern boundary. Along its course are exceptional safari regions, including Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its seasonal floodplains, large populations of elephant and buffalo, and the chance to view wildlife on foot or by canoe. This park is one of the few in Africa where walking safaris are a central part of the experience.

Bordering Mana Pools is the Sapi Reserve, a conservation success story. Once a hunting concession, the area has been rewilded and re-established as a vital part of the broader Zambezi Valley ecosystem. Spanning over 118,000 hectares, the Sapi Reserve now offers low-impact safari experiences focused on conservation and wildlife restoration, contributing to the long-term protection of the region’s biodiversity.

In the west of the country lies Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest protected area and one of Africa’s key elephant conservation zones. Hwange’s landscapes range from open grasslands to woodland savannah, supporting a wide range of species including lion, wild dog, and cheetah. The park is well known for its excellent guiding and variety of safari camps, many of which operate in partnership with local communities and conservation organisations.

Beyond its wildlife, Zimbabwe is also known for the hospitality and warmth of its people. Visitors often comment on the high standard of guiding, the sense of connection with the land, and the cultural depth that enriches the overall experience.

Zimbabwe offers a safari that feels both personal and deeply rooted in place. Whether you’re walking through the bush with an expert guide, drifting quietly past hippos on the Zambezi, or observing elephants at a remote waterhole in Hwange, the country invites you to slow down and engage with its landscapes in a meaningful way.