Home to Victoria Falls and some of Southern Africa's finest walking safari traditions — a destination for safari purists seeking authentic wilderness and exceptional guiding.
The dry season from May to October is peak safari time. Victoria Falls is most impressive from February to May when water levels peak after the rainy season, though spray can obscure the view. From September to December, lower water levels reveal more of the rock face and the Devil's Pool is accessible. Hwange and Mana Pools are best from July to October when animals concentrate at water sources. Mana Pools' famous walking safari season runs from April to November. The wet season (November-March) brings rain, lush green landscapes, and excellent birding.
Zimbabwe offers good value compared to Botswana. Budget accommodation around Victoria Falls starts from $30-80/night. Mid-range lodges $100-300/night. Luxury safari camps $400-1,500/night all-inclusive. Hwange mid-range camps cost $200-500/night. Mana Pools exclusive camps $500-1,500/night. Victoria Falls entrance is $50/adult. A 7-10 day Zimbabwe circuit covering Victoria Falls, Hwange, and Mana Pools costs $3,000-6,000 mid-range or $6,000-15,000 luxury per person.
Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) receives flights from Johannesburg, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa. Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare serves eastern destinations. Most nationalities require a visa — available on arrival ($30 single entry) or the KAZA UniVisa ($50) covering Zimbabwe and Zambia. Internal flights connect Victoria Falls to Hwange (30 min) and Harare to Mana Pools (charter, 1-1.5 hours). Self-drive is possible on main routes but a 4x4 is needed for national parks.