Feeling adventurous and looking for solo holiday ideas? Unspoiled beauty and rich history make Zimbabwe a hidden gem in southern Africa. With its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, the country attracts adventurous souls from all corners of the globe. Around two million tourists explore its wonders each year, drawn by landmarks that range from breathtaking waterfalls to ancient ruins.
Our article will take you through the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe that truly capture the heart and spirit of the country. From the roaring cascade of Victoria Falls to the bustling city of Harare, these places promise memories that last a lifetime. So, don’t wait, book flights to Harare and start your solo adventure today:
1. Hwange National Park: Wildlife Paradise
Hwange National Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe for a reason: It is simply one of the best safari holiday destinations in Africa! This exceptional gem attracts countless tourists to the country every year because of its wildlife diversity. Not only is it home to four of Africa’s Big Five (lions, leopards, buffalos, and elephants), but it also has cheetahs, wild dogs, wildebeest, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and an array of antelopes.
In addition, Hwange is one of the country’s most significant nature reserves. So, prepare to be mesmerised by glorious woodlands and Kalahari sands adding to the picturesque beauty of this national park. If you are serious about African safaris and love game viewing, book a wildlife safari in Hwange.
2. Victoria Falls: Natural Spectacle
Victoria Falls is one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the world, at 108 m deep and 1709 m wide. It is located halfway along the Zambezi River, which forms the border between Zimbabwe to the north and Zambia to the south. The two countries are linked by the Victoria Falls Bridge, that crosses just below the second gorge. The cascading water from the Victoria Falls create a mist that nourishes a lush rainforest, providing a habitat for unique flora and fauna.
To enjoy the breathtaking views of one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic landmarks, take a helicopter ride or a boat trip, or join a walking tour through the rainforest where you can see some of the spectacular wildlife. Swimming in the Devil’s Pool is an epic experience, but can only be enjoyed in the dry season, so think carefully what time of year to visit – both rainy and dry seasons have their ups and downs. The same named town, Victoria Falls, is also worth a visit.
3. Lake Kariba: Tranquillity & Beauty
Did you know that Lake Kariba is the largest man-made lake in the world? With its stunning views and enchanting sunsets, this is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Take a boat trip and enjoy the breathtaking sight of this beautiful lake against the backdrop of the imposing Matusadona Mountains, and don’t forget to capture the country’s raw beauty on camera!
Many animals are drawn to the lake’s shores, including hippopotamuses, elephants, and big game varieties. The lake itself is home to many species of fish and bird, including the majestic eagles and cormorants, as well as Nile crocodiles.
4. Harare: Tradition Meets Modernity
If you want to add some variety to your African adventure, visit Harare, a bustling city where tradition meets modernity. From lively markets to serene parks, the capital of Zimbabwe captures the essence of the country’s rich heritage.
Today, the city is a melting pot of cultures and ideas with a bustling vibe. Some of its top tourist attractions include the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, Harare Botanical Gardens, and Charles Latham Memorial Park. Harare is also an excellent place to explore markets for some authentic street food. If you are staying here for some time, you can do some day trips to visit Lake Kariba that we introduced earlier, or the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, another UNESCO Heritage site, which also deserves a mention as one of the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe.
5. Mana Pools National Park: Untamed Wilderness
The breathtaking Mana Pools National Park is a place where nature thrives in all its glory. This stunning park, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts lush landscapes and a wealth of wildlife – perfect for adventurous solo travellers looking for an authentic African safari holiday.
The park is rich in biodiversity, housing various ecosystems, from wetlands to woodlands. It’s home to over 350 species of birds and numerous mammals, including the Big 5, hyenas, wild dogs, and zebras. This unique habitat provides endless opportunities for wildlife spotting, but not only that: Mano Pools is a sanctuary of raw beauty, where ancient trees and open spaces create a magical atmosphere.
Finally…
All tourist attractions in Zimbabwe have their own unique charm. One might take you back in time whilst another offers tranquillity or wildlife galore. We hope our journey through this spectacular African country has intrigued you to book your next solo adventure! Just remember, to stay safe when travelling solo by booking group tours and official guides to explore.
So, don’t waste any more time and start planning your solo adventure. Start by booking your flights well in advance to ensure to get the best deals. You can travel directly from the UK to Zimbabwe with Kenya Airways, British Airways, Emirates, RwandAir, and many other airlines. Once you have taken that first step, you can start making a list of your favourite attractions and create your dream itinerary.
About the author:
Single Parents on Holiday is the UK’s number 1 tour operator for single parent group holidays. We also offer solo holidays for single travellers 50+ and run a travel blog covering a wide arrange of topics, including many solo holiday ideas, travel tips for single parents and solo travellers, the best ski resorts, single parent topics, dating tips and more.
