How to Get to Zimbabwe for the Ultimate African Adventure

Are you ready for an unforgettable African adventure? Zimbabwe is calling! From the thundering Victoria Falls to the serene Eastern Highlands, this country is a treasure trove of natural wonders, wildlife, and culture. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a safari lover, or a history buff, Zimbabwe offers something for everyone. This complete travel guide will show you how to get to Zimbabwe, how to travel within the country, and which destinations you simply can’t miss.

Step 1: Getting to Zimbabwe – Flights & Visa Information

Flights

Zimbabwe is easily accessible by air through three main international airports:

• Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (Harare) – Best for starting in the capital.

• Victoria Falls International Airport – Ideal for those heading straight to the iconic falls.

• Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (Bulawayo) – Perfect for southern Zimbabwe and Matobo National Park.

Airlines such as British Airways, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, and South African Airways offer regular flights. Average travel time from major hubs like London or Johannesburg ranges between 12–15 hours depending on routes and stopovers.

Visa Requirements

Most travelers need a visa, which can be obtained via:

• Online eVisa system (recommended for convenience)

• Visa on arrival at the airport

Tourists can choose between single-entry, multiple-entry, or transit visas. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months with three blank pages. Essential documents include passport-size photos, proof of accommodation, and a travel itinerary.

Step 2: Getting Around Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s vast landscapes call for strategic transport planning:

• Domestic Flights – Quick and efficient for covering long distances (Harare ↔ Bulawayo ↔ Victoria Falls).

• Private Transfers & Shuttles – Comfortable and reliable, especially for safari destinations.

• Self-Drive – Popular for adventurers. Roads between cities are tarred, but a 4x4 is recommended for national parks.

• Bus Services – Companies like Intercape and Greyhound connect major cities affordably.

• Guided Tours – Ideal for travelers seeking an organized experience with transport, accommodation, and activities included.

Step 3: Top Destinations in Zimbabwe

1. Victoria Falls – The Smoke That Thunders

How to get there: Fly into Victoria Falls Airport or drive from Zambia (Livingstone) or Botswana (Kasane).
Why visit: Marvel at one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, with mist seen miles away.
Activities: Guided viewpoints, helicopter flights, Zambezi sunset cruises, white-water rafting, and bungee jumping.

2. Hwange National Park – Safari Paradise

How to get there: A 2-hour drive from Victoria Falls or short charter flight.
Why visit: Home to elephants, lions, and the Big Five.
Activities: Game drives, bush walks, and luxury safari lodges. Best visited in the dry season (May–October).

3. Great Zimbabwe Ruins – A Journey Through Time

How to get there: About 4 hours by road from Harare or Bulawayo to Masvingo.
Why visit: Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site that gave the country its name, featuring stone ruins of the ancient kingdom.
Activities: Guided tours of the Hill Complex, Great Enclosure, and Valley Ruins, plus nearby Kyle National Park.

4. Lake Kariba – Africa’s Largest Man-Made Lake

How to get there: A 6-hour drive from Harare or a domestic flight to Kariba.
Why visit: Enjoy houseboat safaris, fishing, and stunning sunsets.
Activities: Cruises, wildlife viewing, and visits to nearby game reserves.

5. Mana Pools National Park – Wilderness at Its Best

How to get there: Best reached by charter flight from Harare or Kariba.
Why visit: Famous for walking safaris and canoeing on the Zambezi.
Activities: Immersive wildlife encounters, birdwatching, and camping in pristine wilderness.

6. Mtarazi Falls – Eastern Highlands Hidden Gem

How to get there: 4–5 hour drive from Harare to Nyanga National Park.
Why visit: At 762 meters, it’s Zimbabwe’s tallest waterfall.
Activities: Forest hikes, breathtaking viewpoints, and a skywalk for adrenaline seekers.

Step 4: Accommodation Options

Zimbabwe offers a wide range of stays, including:

• Luxury Safari Lodges – For comfort in the wild.

• Boutique Hotels – Stylish stays in cities.

• Budget Lodges & Guesthouses – Affordable and cozy.

• Houseboats – A unique way to explore Lake Kariba.

Travel Tips for Zimbabwe

• Currency: US Dollars are widely accepted.

• Best Time to Visit: May to October (dry season) for safaris and Victoria Falls in peak flow.

• Health: Yellow fever vaccination required if arriving from an infected country. Malaria prophylaxis is recommended.

• Safety: Stick to main roads, use reputable guides, and always carry cash as ATMs can be limited.

Why Zimbabwe Should Be Your Next Adventure

Zimbabwe is more than just a destination—it’s an experience. From the roar of Victoria Falls to the ancient mysteries of Great Zimbabwe, from safaris in Hwange to hikes in the Eastern Highlands, every journey here leaves you with unforgettable memories.

Ready to begin your adventure? Book your flights and hotels now and discover the hidden gems of Zimbabwe for yourself!