Zimbabwe
Southern Africa

Zimbabwe

Destination Overview

Zimbabwe’s diversity can provide a honeymoon adventure like no other. A landlocked country in southern Africa, Zimbabwe offers winding rivers for exploration and relaxing natural parks with stunning views that vibrantly display the nation’s efforts in wilderness conservation. Take in the majestic Victoria Falls, cruise down the mighty Zambezi River, or float around Lake Kariba (the world’s largest artificial lake) on a houseboat. Prepare to be mesmerized by the drama of Zimbabwe’s untamed beauty, dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife.

This is a country rich in heritage and blessed with a pleasantly warm climate that gives life to a range of flora and fauna. With four UNESCO World Heritage sites, one unbeatable feature of this country is its vast expanses of pristine remote wilderness, which remain some of the greatest game-viewing locations in Southern Africa.

A “must-see” in Zimbabwe, and one of the most popular tourist destinations, is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls and the Zambezi National Parks. Situated on the western tip of the country, the Falls is one of the “Seven Wonders of the World” and one of the most spectacular waterfalls on earth.

Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife sanctuary is Hwange National Park, situated on the western border with Botswana. Hwange is home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations. Spend some time getting to know these gentle giants.

It is no wonder the Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, packed with such exceptional wilderness and beauty. The Park is a wildlife jackpot and offers the ideal place to enjoy walking and canoe safaris. Make room for the elephant and hippo as you canoe along the channels.

But it’s not all about the animals. In junction with the country’s rich wildlife is an equally rich historical culture. Get to know the fascinating history of the country with visits to early rock art sites and the remnants of an ancient civilization at the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the royal capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe between the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries. Covering nearly 200 acres, the monolithic acropolis offers amazing photography opportunities. Next, head to the country’s oldest park, the Matobbo Hills. The hills portray many millennia of human history through its ancient rock history. Though the hills themselves are a sight to see, watch the story of life unfold in the boulders and caves.

We know you want to enjoy time with each other, but make sure to take advantage of a Boma while in Victoria Falls. This African experience, highlighting the Zimbabwean cuisine, is quickly becoming a “must-do”. Together with the warmth and hospitality of the people of Zimbabwe, this experience is a party for your senses, as you take in the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of Africa.

With some of the world’s best weather, brilliant panoramas, a rich history and diverse habitats, honeymoons to Zimbabwe have plenty to offer. As untouched and secluded as you could hope, Zimbabwe can take you away from it all. The perfect escape for a party of two.

About Zimbabwe

At a Glance

Whether you want to spend time with each other or become one with nature, Zimbabwe can provide you with the best of both worlds. You enjoyed the best day of you life, now let Zimbabwe do the rest of the work.

  • DISCOVER VICTORIA FALLS: Walk through the rainforest and capture a glimpse of the rainbows. Head to the gorge and feel the spray and thundering noise of the falls.
  • EXPLORE THE RUINS: Investigate the wonders of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, built of granite blocks with no mortar or adhesive.
  • TAKE A WALK: Walk with the lions, swim with the elephants, ride a horse and enjoy other game activities at the national parks.
  • LISTEN TO THE VOICES: Head to the Eastern Highlands where it is said that the voices of the ancestors can be heard and local mythology suggests the waters from this area contain healing powers.
  • TAKE THE JUMP: You already took the leap into marriage, why not take a jump off the Victoria Falls bridge into the Bakota Gorge. For the ultimate experience, bungee jump head first into the gorge.
  • FLIGHT OF ANGELS: Experience a bird’s eye view of Victoria Falls on a thrilling helicopter ride.
  • HIT THE RAPIDS: With rapid names such as Stairway to Heaven, the Terminator and Oblivion, those seeking adventure look no further than white water rafting at the Falls.
  • EAT LIKE A LOCAL: Make sure you enjoy a traditional Boma. This is an unforgettable African experience infused with Zimbabwean cuisine that floods the senses with the tastes, sights, sounds and smells of Africa.

Honeymoon Hints

  • BEST TIME TO VISIT: With the pleasant weather, Zimbabwe is a country you can visit year round. August through September tend to be the best months for game viewing. If fishing is a favorite pastime, September through November is an ideal time.
  • LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS: When traveling on a safari, remember that packing space is limited. Try and keep your luggage to 22-26lbs, packed in a soft bag.
  • ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Passport must be valid for a minimum of six months. Make sure your passport has enough pages as the Zimbabwean visa takes up one full page.
  • VISAS: Visas are required for most countries. Those traveling from the United States or Canada are able to purchase a visa at port of entry. These visas are easiest obtained on your arrival at the airport or border post.
  • MONEY: The US Dollar and South African Rand are both accepted throughout the country. Credit and debits cards are not widely accepted and travelers are encouraged to carry around currency.

Travel Tips

  • LANGUAGE: The official language is English, however the majority of the population speak Shona.
  • GETTING THERE: Harare International Airport is the main gateway into Zimbabwe. Flights take approximately 18 hours from New York.
  • GETTING AROUND: Roads in the country are in good condition and car rentals are available. However, please be sure to fill up the tank often as fuel shortages are common.
  • CLIMATE: Zimbabwe enjoys a lovely temperate climate. The central Highveld plateau has temperatures around 82°F. Lower-lying parks like Hwange and Zambezi National Parks are warmer year-round with temperatures reaching 88°F. Lower areas, such as Mana Pools and Gonarezou can get hot, with temperatures soaring to 95°F. And the Eastern highlands are much colder, receiving significantly more rain. The wet season runs from November to March with heavy afternoon showers. The dry season, from April to October, tends to be a tad colder. Nights and mornings can get as low as freezing, but daytime temperatures are still pleasant with lots of sunshine.