Top 10 Safaris in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has a rich diversity of wildlife, making it a popular safari destination. Many different safari options are available in Zimbabwe, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury experiences. Explore Zimbabwe’s top 10 safaris, including Hwange, Mana Pools, and Victoria Falls. Plan your adventure easily with a Zimbabwe eVisa, ensuring a smooth entry for an unforgettable wildlife experience!

1. Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is one of the largest national parks in Zimbabwe, spreading an area of 14,650 km2. The park's main entrance is a 30-minute flight from south of Victoria Falls. The park has over 100 mammal species and nearly 400 bird species, showcasing rich biodiversity.

The most promising feature of the park is the presence of a significant population of elephants, estimated to be around 40,000. The best time for visiting the park is during the dry season, from July to October, as the animals gather around the water holes to quench their thirst, making it easy for tourists to spot them. 

2. Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site spreading over 219,600 hectares, offering off-beaten safari tracks in Northern Zimbabwe. The park is famous for its lush forest consisting of a variety of trees such as acacia, fig, and mahogany. 

The name Mana translates to four pools, derived from the park's permanent water reservoirs, which are essential for its reputation as one of the world’s greatest natural wonders; the best to visit the park is between October and November when predators such as cheetahs, lions, wild dogs and leopards become more active, offering opportunities for wildlife encounters. For birdwatchers, the park is home to 400 species of birds.

3. Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou National Park is among the oldest national parks in Zimbabwe and is situated in the South-Eastern corner of Zimbabwe. The park shares the borders with two other national reserves, Kruger National Park in South Africa & Limpopo National Park in Zimbabwe. The park is a major part of the Great Limpopo Trans-Frontier Conservation Area, established in 2002. 

The presence of all five members of the Big Five family—elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion, and leopard—makes the park a must-visit destination for tourists as these animals roam freely in the park. In addition to the Big Five, the park has 430-450 species of birds, 100 species of mammals, and 50 species of fish.

4. Victoria Falls National Park

Victoria Falls National Park, in Zimbabwe and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia jointly safeguard the Victoria Falls, the world’s largest waterfall; these two protected areas work together to preserve this shared natural wonder of the world. The park is smaller than its neighbouring park Mosi-oa-Tunya, covering only 9 miles2 .

The park is home to wildlife species such as elephants, buffalo, hippo, eland & white rhino. Along with the falls and the animals, the park has a massive balboa tree that measures approximately 52 feet(16m) in diameter and 65.6 feet (20m) high.

5. Matobo National Park

Matobo National Park is located in southwest Zimbabwe, and it covers an area of 424 km. The park is famous for the Matobo Hills, a range of balancing rock formations formed by erosion of the granite plateau. The national park extends along the valleys of the Thuli, Mtshele, Maleme, and Mpopoma rivers. It is one of the three intensive rhino protection zones within the Parks Estate, making it a vital sanctuary for wildlife conservation.

Matobo National Park boasts a rich diversity of plant life, including over 200 tree species, mountain acacia, paperbark, and wild pear. The park is also home to numerous aloe species, wild herbs, and more than 100 grass varieties, contributing to its unique and vibrant ecosystem.

Various wildlife animals are present in the park, including black and white rhinos, impala and sableantelopes, leopards, hyrax, giraffes, zebras, ostriches and wildebeest. 

6. Nyanga National Park

The park is situated on the northern side of Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands. At its centre stands Mount Nyangani, the country’s highest peak at 2,952meters (8,504 feet). Mutarazi Falls, Zimbabwe's tallest waterfall at 762 meters, cascades dramatically in the park's southern region.

The park’s terrain features rolling green hills covered in dense pine, acacia, and dwarf msasa trees. Its valleys thrive with diverse flora, including proteas, everlastings, and orchards brimming with fresh fruit. Birdwatchers flock to the park, drawn by over 300 species, including migratory birds that arrive between November and April. The park’s perennial streams are full of many rainbow trout, providing top-tier fly fishing in Mare, Rhodes, Gulliver, and Purdon lakes. At the same time, Udu Lake remains the only designated spot for bream fishing. 

Zebras and various antelope species roam freely across Nyanga, such as waterbuck, wildebeest, klipspringer, kudu, and eland. Leopards, hyenas, and occasional lions from the Mozambican lowlands dominate as the park’s primary predators.

7. Chimanimani National Park

Chimanimani National Park, located in the eastern part of Zimbabwe, is one of the country's most outstanding mountainous wilderness areas and a highly popular destination for hiking. The park is shared between the borders of Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

The park’s mountains offer an ideal adventure for those who enjoy exploring on foot and immersing themselves in the wild. It also features the Eland Sanctuary, a rugged mountainous terrain that rises to 2,436meters (approximately 7,992 feet). Spanning a total area of 17,110 hectares, the park is enriched with natural springs, breathtaking scenic views, cultural significance, and stunning waterfalls, including the renowned Bridal Veil Falls.

Chimanimani National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, featuring Afro-montane forests and designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA). It hosts 2,182 plant species, representing over 30% of Zimbabwe’s total plant diversity, with 74 species found exclusively in the Chimanimani Mountains. While wildlife in the park is not abundant, it is home to species such as eland, bushbuck, and blue duiker.

8. Zambezi National Park

Zambezi National Park is co-joined with Victoria Falls National Park covering a combined area of 56,000 hectares. This park stretches 40 kilometres of the Zambezi River, offering stunning waterfront views and rich wildlife. With direct access to the river, it’s a prime spot for scenic beauty, diverse animal sightings, and exciting water activities. The park gives visitors the chance to spot the Big Five species: elephant, lion,buffalo and leopard.

The park is home to large herds of sable, kudu, impala, giraffe, zebra, and a variety of other wildlife species. It also boasts an impressive bird population, with over 400 species, including the lanner falcon, goliath heron, and African skimmer, among others.

9. Chizarira National Park

Chizarira National Park sits atop the Great Zambezi Escarpment in the northwestern region of Zimbabwe, offering breathtaking views of the vast Zambezi Valley and the upper waters parts of Lake Kariba. As the fourth-largest national park in Zimbabwe, it follows the renowned Hwange, Gonarezhou, and Mana Pools National Parks in size and significance.

The Great Zambezi Escarpment, is a steep and elevated landform, rising dramatically above the Zambezi Valley, forming a natural boundary along the Zambezi River. Its rugged cliffs and high plateaus provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including rivers, valleys, and nearby wildlife reserves. This escarpment plays a crucial role in shaping the region’s ecosystems by influencing climate, vegetation, and water flow, making Chizarira National Park a unique and ecologically significant destination.

Chizarira National Park boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including iconic species like lions, leopards, buffaloes, and elephants. The park also shelters a variety of other animals, such as the rare roan antelope, the elegant sable, and the agile klipspringer. Birdwatchers will delight in the park's avian diversity, with over 360 species recorded, including the rare Taita falcon and the elusive Angolan Pitta, often spotted roosting on the cliffs. The park's topography is a captivating mix of rocky terrain, Miombo woodlands dominating the higher elevations, and Mopane scrubland and Baobab trees gracing the lower areas.

10. Chete Safari Area

Chete Safari Area, a pristine reserve in Zimbabwe, offers an exhilarating wildlife experience. Encounter elephants, lions, and antelopes amidst rolling hills, lush vegetation, and sparkling waters. This diverse landscape is perfect for photography and birdwatching.

Chete Safari Area offers diverse activities, including game drives, boat cruises on the Zambezi River and walking safaris. This less commercialized reserve provides an authentic African wilderness experience. Explore the tranquil surroundings and encounter wildlife for a truly magical safari.

Travel Mindfully: Safety & Responsible Tourism

While you'll be captivated by Zimbabwe's stunning wilderness, remember to prioritize safety. Your safety and the well-being of the animals are paramount. Always follow your tour guide's safety guidelines, maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and never stray from marked trails.

Tailoring Your Safari: Itinerary Inspiration

Short Getaways: Consider a focused trip to Hwange National Park with a day trip to Victoria Falls.

• Multi-Day Journeys: Explore Mana Pools, Matobo National Park, and cultural villages for a comprehensive Zimbabwean experience.

Customizing Your Safari Experience:

Tailor your itinerary to your preferences.

• Mix and match activities like game drives and boat safaris.
• Create a personalized adventure that reflects your interests and pace.

Conclusion

Zimbabwe offers a wide range of safari experiences, from the vast plains of Hwange to the dramatic landscapes of the Eastern Highlands. With its abundant wildlife, stunning scenery, and unique cultural experiences, Zimbabwe is an unforgettable safari destination for travelers seeking authentic African adventures.

Frequently Asked Question

What are some of the best times to visit Zimbabwe for a safari?

Dry Season (July to October): This is the peak season with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities as animals congregate around waterholes.

• Green Season (November to April): Offers lush landscapes and the chance to witness newborn animals. However, it can be rainy and some roads may be impassable.

What are the different types of safari experiences available in Zimbabwe?There are 4 different types of Safari experiences available in Zimbabwe

Game Drives: The most common way to explore, offering thrilling wildlife encounters in open-sided vehicles.

• Walking Safaris: Provides an intimate experience with nature, guided by experienced rangers.
• Boat Cruises: Explore rivers like the Zambezi, offering unique perspectives on wildlife and birdlife.
• Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the savanna and wildlife.

What should I pack for a Zimbabwe safari?Pack for warm weather, including sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and comfortable clothing. Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing.

How does Zimbabwe support sustainable and eco-friendly safari tourism?Many safari lodges and tour operators in Zimbabwe have adopted eco-friendly practices and work closely with wildlife conservation projects. This commitment helps protect natural habitats and supports local communities, ensuring that tourism benefits both people and nature.

Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in February 2025, it is advisable to confirm the accuracy of travel details with relevant authorities, embassies, and airlines.