Zimbabwe

Holiday in Zimbabwe

The Republic of Zimbabwe is located in Southern Africa and is totally enclosed and bordered by other countries. The bordering countries are South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Mozambique. All four these countries are also highly regarded for the natural tourist attractions they offer.

Zimbabwe, formerly known as Rhodesia, gained independence from Brittan in 1980 and became a republic with Robert Mugabe as president. He has been at the reigns since then. Political turmoil has set the undertone in this beautiful country and it is advisable to undertake tours and vacations with thorough research and guidance.

Climate

The climate of Zimbabwe is tropical, but more moderate than the more Northern countries due to its altitude. It has two recognised seasons; the dry season and the rainy season.

Rainy season is from November to March, which is the summer season. Summers are therefore very humid, but the rain contributes to the green panoramas and is inevitable for one of the main attractions of the country during summer: the Victoria Waterfalls.

Tourist attractions

The biggest tourist attractions of Zimbabwe are also the attractions that lured foreigners to invest in the country, buy land and construct homes and businesses. Think of the hit movie, Out of Africa, and you will probably agree.

Zimbabwe used to be a fairytale country with gorgeous natural beauty and wildlife. Thanks to many wildlife and natural heritage sites, this beauty is reserved and sustained by the locals who still believe in the beauty and prosperity of their country.

Zimbabwe boasts many wildlife reserves with international recognised accommodation in these reserves that blends with the splendour of the surrounding nature. In these reserves the visitor can view the wildlife indigenous to Africa. Elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos, zebras, crocodiles, various deer species and many other imposing creatures roam these parks. While visiting the parks, try to get a glimpse of the very rare sable antelope.

Zimbabwe is also a popular destination for hunting during the hunting seasons while on safaris. Hunting season is from May to September and prior arrangement is required by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Management.

One of the seven natural Wonders of the world, the Victoria Falls, are located in Zimbabwe. These majestic falls are in the Zambezi River. It has a plunge of 106 metres and is 1.6 kilometres wide. The Falls are aptly named by the local tribes as “The smoke that thunders”. The spray of the Falls creates perpetual moisture to sustain the surrounding rainforest of the Zambezi Wildlife Reserve.

Also in the mighty Zambezi River, tourist can visit the Lake Kariba. The 122 metre high dam wall offers certain restrain on the Zambezi River and has created the largest manmade lake. Visitors can water ski, sail or fish at the lake or enjoy a day indoors at the casino.

Transport and accommodation

The westernisation of Zimbabwe brought with it the luxuries required by tourists. The tourist has many hotels, resorts and camping sites to choose from for accommodation. To experience Zimbabwean beauty to its fullest, plan your stay in one of the popular accommodations located within the resorts and parks. Or enjoy your stay at one of the many self catering accommodations.

For transport, visitors can rely on commercial airlines. Zimbabwe has its own airline that flies commuters to and from the most popular destinations in Zimbabwe and adjacent countries and international airports.

For more terrestrial transport, make use of the railway system or coach services in Zimbabwe.

Conclusion

The wildlife and nature industries of Zimbabwe has been negatively affected by poverty and neglect, but with the construction and maintenance of dedicated wildlife reserves, the tourist industry of Zimbabwe still offers hope and splendour to visitors and the local residents alike. With dedication and respect the tourist industry can flourish and provide joy to the country for many generations to come.