Zimbabwe 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Zimbabwe

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization in Harare

Places to Go:

  • National Museum: Start your trip with a visit to the National Museum of Zimbabwe. This is a great place to understand the country’s history, culture, and prehistoric past.
  • Harare Botanical Gardens: These gardens offer a peaceful escape from the city. They are home to a variety of plant species.

Activities:

  • Explore Harare, getting familiar with its layout and services.
  • If you’re interested in shopping or need any travel-related items, today is a good day to take care of those tasks.

Things to Know:

  • Zimbabwe’s climate varies from season to season. The best time for traveling is during the dry seasons (May to October).
  • English is the official language but Shona and Ndebele are widely spoken.
  • Be prepared for long drives between destinations, as Zimbabwe is a large country with a lot of open space.

Visa Requirements:

  • Check with your local embassy or consulate about visa requirements. Some nationalities can get visas upon arrival.

Transportation:

  • Domestic Flights: If you want to cover more ground, domestic flights are available for shorter journeys.
  • Road Travel: Zimbabwe has good road networks connecting major cities and tourist areas. Consider renting a 4x4 if planning off-road adventures.

Day 2: Victoria Falls

Places to Go:

  • Victoria Falls: One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is an unmissable natural wonder.
  • Zambezi River: For those who love water sports or just want to see more of the Zambezi, consider a sunset cruise.

Activities:

  • Take a guided tour of Victoria Falls for its history and to learn about its cultural significance.
  • Consider taking a microlight flight over the falls for an aerial view.

Things to Know:

  • Be respectful of local restrictions around the falls at certain times of the day or during certain activities.
  • If you’re planning to visit in the wet season (November to March), be aware that parts of the area might be closed due to high water levels.

Day 3: Chobe National Park

Places to Go:

  • Chobe National Park: A safari experience awaits within this park, known for its large elephant population.
  • Kazangula Border: If you’re planning to visit Botswana next, this is where the Zimbabwe-Botswana border crossing is located.

Activities:

  • Take a game drive in Chobe National Park. It’s an excellent place for spotting wildlife.
  • For a more leisurely experience, consider a boat cruise on the Chobe River.

Things to Know:

  • Accommodations within or near Chobe are varied but can range from budget-friendly options to luxury lodges.
  • If planning a safari in the wet season, be prepared for less game viewing due to the water levels making animals harder to spot.

Day 4: Matobo Hills

Places to Go:

  • Matobo Hills National Park: This park is famous for its unique rock formations and as the final resting place of King Mzileni.
  • Malindela Lodge: Consider stopping here for a scenic view or an overnight stay.

Activities:

  • Explore the rock art in Matobo Hills, which is considered some of Africa’s finest.
  • Visit any historical sites related to King Mzileni and his legacy.

Things to Know:

  • The journey to Matobo can be long, so plan your day accordingly. Consider starting early for more time at the sites.
  • Be respectful of local customs and history when visiting these sacred areas.

Day 5: Departure from Bulawayo

Places to Go:

  • National Museum of Zimbabwe: A great place to visit if you missed it on the first day, now in a different city.
  • Bulawayo City Centre: Spend your last few dollars shopping for souvenirs or getting any items that might be needed.

Activities:

  • If time allows, take one more game drive before departing Zimbabwe. This is an opportunity to see some of the wildlife you might have missed on previous days.

Things to Know:

  • Ensure all necessary arrangements are made for your departure.
  • Consider a meal at a local restaurant in Bulawayo as a farewell dinner.

Remember: Always check up-to-date information about health and safety, visa requirements, and travel advisories before planning any trip. Enjoy your time exploring Zimbabwe!