Is Zimbabwe good for safaris?

Its location near the Zambezi River gives it large pools that support a plethora of wildlife and activities like canoe safaris ? a terrific way to see hippos, elephants, crocodiles and aquatic birdlife like herons, jacanas and terns.



Zimbabwe is widely considered one of the premier safari destinations in Africa, often favored by experienced travelers for its high standards of professional guiding and raw wilderness. Unlike some of its neighbors that have become highly commercialized, Zimbabwe offers a more intimate and authentic experience. Hwange National Park is famous for its massive elephant herds (one of the largest populations in the world), while Mana Pools is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique "walking safaris" where you can track lions and painted dogs on foot with world-class guides. The country also provides the unique opportunity to combine a traditional "Big Five" safari with a visit to the majestic Victoria Falls. In 2026, Zimbabwe is praised for its commitment to low-impact, high-quality tourism, making it an excellent choice for those who want to escape the crowds of Kruger or the Serengeti while still seeing incredible wildlife in diverse landscapes.

Yes, Zimbabwe is an excellent destination for safaris, offering a rich and diverse wildlife experience. Here are some reasons why Zimbabwe is a great choice for safaris:

1. World-Class National Parks

  • Hwange National Park: Zimbabwe’s largest national park, known for its large elephant herds, lions, and diverse wildlife. It’s one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.
  • Mana Pools National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its walking safaris, canoeing, and close encounters with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles along the Zambezi River.
  • Gonarezhou National Park: Part of the Great Limipo Transfrontier Park, it offers stunning landscapes and excellent opportunities to see elephants, wild dogs, and other wildlife.

2. Victoria Falls

  • While primarily known for the iconic Victoria Falls, the area also offers safari experiences in nearby parks like Zambezi National Park, where you can see wildlife alongside stunning river views.

3. Walking Safaris

  • Zimbabwe is renowned for its walking safaris, offering a more intimate and immersive wildlife experience. Mana Pools and Hwange are particularly popular for this.

4. Expert Guides

  • Zimbabwe’s safari guides are highly trained and knowledgeable, often considered among the best in Africa. Their expertise enhances the safari experience.

5. Diverse Wildlife

  • Zimbabwe is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) as well as a wide variety of other species, including cheetahs, wild dogs, hippos, and numerous bird species.

6. Less Crowded

  • Compared to some other safari destinations in Africa, Zimbabwe’s parks are often less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful and exclusive experience.

7. Cultural Experiences

  • In addition to wildlife, Zimbabwe offers cultural experiences, such as visits to ancient ruins like Great Zimbabwe, providing a well-rounded trip.

8. Adventure Activities

  • Combining a safari with adventure activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, or helicopter flights over Victoria Falls adds excitement to your trip.

9. Sustainable Tourism

  • Zimbabwe has a strong focus on conservation and sustainable tourism, ensuring that wildlife and habitats are protected for future generations.

10. Affordable Options

  • While Zimbabwe offers luxury safari lodges, it also has a range of more affordable options, making it accessible to a variety of travelers.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season (May to October) is the best time for safaris, as wildlife congregates around water sources, making animals easier to spot.

In summary, Zimbabwe is a fantastic destination for safaris, offering incredible wildlife, stunning landscapes, and a variety of experiences for all types of travelers.

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Exercise increased caution in Zimbabwe due to crime and official harassment of U.S. citizens. Country Summary: Opportunistic crime, such as pickpocketing, theft, and smashing of car windows with intent to steal, is common. Violent crime, such as assault, carjacking, and home invasion, also occurs.

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Prices tend to be higher during the Peak season which is normally when the Great wildebeest migration happens as this attracts large numbers of visitors to Masai Mara making it more expensive to secure rooms due to the high demand. The Peak season runs from July to October.

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If you're a first-time safari-goer, we highly recommend planning a longer trip to make it well worth your while. As a general rule of thumb about two weeks (or 10 full days minimum) is a good amount of time to properly enjoy your first time in Africa.

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To get started, basic African safari costs start at around US$ 150 per person per day for an all-inclusive budget safari package. That's the no-frills budget safari, that stays at basic campsites and takes advantage of off-season rates.

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