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Unforgettable Adventures Await in Zimbabwe
Looking for incredible things to do in Zimbabwe? This listicle unveils ten must-do experiences for your 2025-2026 adventure. Discover thrilling activities like white water rafting and bungee jumping, explore ancient ruins and national parks teeming with wildlife, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture. From Victoria Falls to the Zambezi River, plan your unforgettable Zimbabwean journey with these top recommendations.
1. Visit Victoria Falls
When considering things to do in Zimbabwe, a visit to the magnificent Victoria Falls is an absolute must. Known locally as 'Mosi-oa-Tunya' – The Smoke That Thunders – this breathtaking natural wonder is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, easily claiming its spot at the top of any Zimbabwean itinerary. This colossal waterfall on the Zambezi River plunges a staggering 108 meters and spans an impressive 1,708 meters wide, creating the largest curtain of falling water in the world during peak flow. The sheer power and beauty of the falls are captivating, with the resulting spray and rainbows often visible from up to 50 kilometers away. Victoria Falls truly offers an unparalleled sensory experience.
2. Safari in Hwange National Park
When considering things to do in Zimbabwe, a safari in Hwange National Park should be at the top of your list. As Zimbabwe's largest wildlife reserve, spanning approximately 14,650 square kilometers, Hwange offers a truly immersive safari experience. This vast park is a sanctuary for an incredible diversity of wildlife, including one of Africa's largest elephant populations and over 100 mammal species. Picture yourself traversing classic African landscapes, from lush teak forests and swaying palm groves to expansive savanna plains, all while searching for the iconic 'Big Five' – lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo – as well as a plethora of other fascinating creatures.
3. Explore Great Zimbabwe Ruins
When considering things to do in Zimbabwe, a visit to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins should be at the top of your list. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not just a collection of old stones; it's a powerful testament to a sophisticated pre-colonial African civilization and a crucial part of understanding Zimbabwe's history – the country is even named after it! The ruins represent the largest ancient stone structure south of the Sahara Desert (excluding Egypt), offering a glimpse into the impressive architectural prowess of the Shona people who built this city between the 11th and 15th centuries. It served as the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe during the country's Late Iron Age and played a significant role in the region's trade networks.
4. Mana Pools National Park Canoe Safari
Looking for truly unique things to do in Zimbabwe? A Mana Pools National Park canoe safari should be at the top of your list. This isn't your average African safari; it's an immersive adventure offering an unparalleled perspective on Zimbabwe's incredible wildlife. Imagine gliding silently down the Zambezi River, coming face-to-face with elephants drinking at the water's edge, and camping under a breathtaking canopy of stars. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its dense wildlife populations along the river's floodplains, provides an experience unlike any other.
5. Visit Matobo National Park
Matobo National Park (also known as Matopos) offers a truly unique and diverse experience, securing its place as a must-do among the many things to do in Zimbabwe. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located approximately 35km from Bulawayo, combines stunning natural beauty with rich cultural and historical significance, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler.
The park is instantly recognizable by its dramatic granite balancing rock formations, sculpted over millennia by the forces of nature. These otherworldly landscapes provide a breathtaking backdrop to the park's incredible biodiversity and numerous ancient rock art sites. Some of these paintings, found in caves like Nswatugi Cave, date back an astounding 13,000 years, offering a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of early human inhabitants.
6. Cultural Experience in Eastern Highlands
Looking for unique things to do in Zimbabwe beyond the typical safari experience? The Eastern Highlands offer a refreshing alternative, showcasing a different side of the country's natural beauty and cultural richness. This mountainous region, bordering Mozambique, is a world away from the savanna plains, with rolling green hills, vibrant tea and coffee plantations, tranquil pine forests, cascading waterfalls, and charming towns imbued with a distinct colonial atmosphere. This diversity makes it a must-see for anyone exploring things to do in Zimbabwe.
The Eastern Highlands offer a cooler climate and lush landscapes, perfect for a variety of activities. Whether you're an avid hiker, a keen fisherman, a golf enthusiast, or someone seeking immersive cultural experiences, this region has something for everyone. Explore traditional Shona villages, engage with local artisans at craft workshops, and delve into the region’s history, making your trip to Zimbabwe truly memorable.
7. Visit Gonarezhou National Park
If you're looking for truly authentic things to do in Zimbabwe, far from the well-trodden tourist trails, Gonarezhou National Park should be at the top of your list. Located in the southeastern corner of the country, Gonarezhou, meaning "place of many elephants," offers a raw and untamed wilderness experience unlike any other. This park earns its place on this list by providing a unique glimpse into a pristine African ecosystem teeming with wildlife and dramatic landscapes, all while supporting vital community-based conservation efforts.
Gonarezhou is Zimbabwe's second-largest national park, covering a vast 5,053 square kilometers. It forms a crucial part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, a groundbreaking initiative linking conservation areas across Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa, allowing wildlife to roam freely across international borders. This makes it a particularly special destination for those seeking a large-scale wilderness experience.
Ready to embark on your Zimbabwean adventure? Let Maximum Adventure Trails be your guide. We specialize in crafting seamless safari experiences, scenic adventures, activities, and accommodation bookings, making your dream trip to Zimbabwe a reality. Visit Maximum Adventure Trails today to start planning your perfect itinerary.