Zimbabwe is home to several beautiful national parks and wildlife reserves, each offering unique landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife. A trip to this top safari destination in Southern Africa should be undertaken at least once in a lifetime.
The largest and most popular national park in Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park is famous for its large elephant population. It is also home to more than 100 other mammal species, including lions, leopards, and African wild dogs, making it a prime destination for safari enthusiasts.
Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its natural beauty and the remarkable wildlife viewing opportunities it provides, especially along the Zambezi River. It is one of Africa’s premier locations for walking safaris and canoeing, where visitors can see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
The magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is within the embrace of the Victoria Falls National Park. While the Falls are the main attraction, the surrounding rainforest area offers walks and the chance to see wildlife such as monkeys and various bird species. The Zambezi National Park, upstream of the Falls, provides more opportunities for animal sightings, including elephants and buffalo.
Known for its unique granite kopjes and rich historical significance, Matobo National Park is another of Zimbabwe’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It offers visitors the chance to see a wide range of wildlife, including the white rhino, leopards, and eagles. The park is also famous for its ancient San Bushman rock art.
Gonarezhou National Park is part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park which also includes the Kruger National Park in South Africa and Limpopo National Park in Mozambique. The park is renowned for its impressive cliffs, baobab trees, and large elephant population.
Situated on the shores of Lake Kariba, Matusadona National Park is a haven for wildlife, including elephants, lions, and a significant population of black rhinos. The park’s lakeside location makes it a fantastic place for fishing, boating, and enjoying the stunning African sunsets.
The best time to visit Zimbabwe for a safari is generally during the dry season, which spans from May to October. This period offers several advantages for wildlife viewing, particularly since the animals tend to congregate around the remaining waterholes and rivers, making them easier to spot.
The weather during this time is generally cooler and more comfortable for safari-goers, with less humidity and minimal chance of rainfall, ensuring that safari activities are not interrupted. The dry season also ensures that roads and paths within the parks are more accessible, allowing for easier navigation during game drives.
While the dry season is optimal for wildlife viewing, the green season between November and April has its charms. This period, which includes the rainy season, brings lush landscapes, dramatic skies, and the chance to see new-born animals and migratory birds. However, some areas might be less accessible due to rain, and animals can be harder to spot due to the thicker vegetation.
