10 Experiences You Have to Try in Zimbabwe

Breathtaking landscapes, a wide variety of wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage all add up to make Zimbabwe a fantastic self-drive destination.

From the iconic Victoria Falls and the spectacular wildlife of Hwange National Park to the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe, there’s something for everyone keen on an adventure. To help you choose, we’ve rounded up 10 experiences you simply have to try in Zimbabwe.

1. Bungee Jump off Victoria Falls Bridge

Bungee Jumping at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe

At a whopping 111 meters high, this bungee jump from the Victoria Falls bridge is one of the world’s highest. Still, with the majestic Victoria Falls as a backdrop and the mighty Zambezi River flowing below you, this must be one of the best settings you can leap in.

Other exciting activities you can do at the Falls include seasonal whitewater rafting, scenic helicopter flights, and microlight flips, all of which can be enjoyed with a 4×4 rental of your choice.

2. Explore Lake Kariba on a Houseboat

A houseboat on Lake Kariba during a sunset

Kariba is the world’s largest man-made lake and there’s no better way to explore this vast scenic expanse of water than cruising the shores on a houseboat for a couple of days. Take a small boat or canoe to discover the wildlife wonders of the Matusadona National Park on the southern shore. Photographers will love the stark beauty of tree silhouettes poking out of the water at sunset, an iconic Kariba scene.

3. Go for a Hike in the Eastern Highlands

A Group of hikers at Mount Nyangani National Park in Zimbabwe

This picturesque mountainous area stretches along the Mozambican border for around 300 kilometers. With its cool climate, cascading waterfalls, and misty forests, the Eastern Highlands is quite the opposite of the low-lying dry savannah that makes up most of the country.

This destination offers the ideal terrain for hiking, trout fishing, horse riding, or simply enjoying the views. There’s not much wildlife, but the birding here is fantastic and features many endemic species.

4. Explore the Chinhoyi Caves

Even though you can easily visit this mysterious destination on the way to Mana Pools National Park or Lake Kariba, the Chinhoyi Caves remain a bit of a tourist secret in Zimbabwe. A network of paths and tunnels connects a number of underground caves and sinkholes with interesting names like Sleeping Pool, Wonder Hole, and Silent Pool. Take a tour and learn about the legends of this mystical spot. For scuba divers, there’s nothing like taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Silent Pool.

5. Take a Paddle on the Upper Zambezi

Aerial view of the upper Zambezi River in Zimbabwe

In contrast to the rapids flowing below Victoria Falls (which are ideal for whitewater rafting), the upper Zambezi is mostly calm. Taking a canoe along this part of the river is peaceful and the idyllic surroundings will take your breath away. There’s an abundance of hippos and crocodiles here, and you can spot elephants and other wildlife cruising through Zambezi National Park.

6. Witness Ancient Rock Paintings at Matobo National Park

Cave paintings in Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe

There’s more to Matobo National Park than its spectacular scenery. Tucked away between the massive balancing boulders and granite outcrops are thousands of ancient rock-art sites. Take a guided tour of the most fascinating walls and discover the importance of these sacred depictions.

7. Go on a Walking Safari in Mana Pools National Park

A group on a walking safari in Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

A walking safari in Mana Pools National Park is possibly the best way to fully immerse yourself in the wilderness. You’ll be moving slower, so you’ll get to see things you might miss on a game drive. Approaching wildlife on foot is a truly thrilling experience, and with all your senses on high alert, you’ll get closer to Mother Nature than ever before.

8. Take a Step Back in Time to Great Zimbabwe

A view of The Great Zimbabwe Ruins

The Great Zimbabwe Ruins is a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of the most fascinating places to explore in Zimbabwe. The remains of an ancient civilization dating back to the 11th to 15th centuries provide a fascinating window into the country’s rich heritage and is one of the most dramatic architectural landscapes in sub-Saharan Africa.

9. Spot the Big Five at Hwange National Park

Two lions drinking some water in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s premier wildlife destination and a great place to search for the Big Five. Boasting 108 mammal species, the park’s animal diversity is incredible. Home to a massive variety of antelope, including gemsbok, sable, and roan, Hwange also features massive herds of elephants that gather around the water holes in the dry season. Hwange National Park offers many 4×4 trails, perfect if you are planning to rent a 4×4 in Zimbabwe

10. Be Amazed by Victoria Falls

Aerial view of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls has been named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and is a World Heritage Site. There’s not much on Earth that can rival its 1.7-kilometer-wide sheet of falling water cascading 100 meters into the depths below. Locals call it Mosi-oa-Tunya, which translates into ‘The Smoke that Thunders’, and you’ll be blown away by its roaring sound and powerful mists.