The Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe are a scenic and mountainous region along the country’s eastern border with Mozambique, offering a cool climate, lush landscapes, and a tranquil escape from the lowveld. Stretching over 300 kilometers, the area is divided into three main zones: Nyanga, Bvumba (Vumba), and Chimanimani, each with its own unique attractions and charm.

• Nyanga is known for rolling hills, pine forests, and Zimbabwe’s highest peak, Mount Nyangani. It’s home to Nyanga National Park, waterfalls, and archaeological sites like pit structures and stone forts.
• Bvumba Mountains, near Mutare, offer misty forests, botanical gardens, and excellent birdwatching, particularly of rare Eastern Highlands endemics.
• Chimanimani is rugged and remote, perfect for hikers and adventurers.The Chimanimani National Park features dramatic peaks, waterfalls, and pristine mountain wilderness.

The Eastern Highlands are ideal for hiking, birding, horseback riding, and enjoying Zimbabwe’s most peaceful and scenic countryside.

Lake Kariba, located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, stretching over 220 kilometers long and up to 40 kilometers wide. Created in the 1950s following the construction of the Kariba Dam on the Zambezi River, the lake is a breathtaking destination known for its tranquil waters, stunning sunsets, and abundant wildlife.

On the Zimbabwean side, Lake Kariba is a hub for houseboat safaris, fishing (especially tiger fish), and game viewing along the shoreline. The Matusadona National Park, which lies along the southern shore, offers opportunities to see elephants, lions, buffalo, and various antelope species.

The lake’s islands and remote bays attract birdlife and provide a serene environment for relaxation and nature-based activities. Whether exploring by boat, enjoying a lakeside lodge, or watching elephants wade into the water at sunset, Lake Kariba is a peaceful escape for safari and leisure travelers alike.

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest and most diverse wildlife reserve, covering approximately 14,650 square kilometers in the northwest of the country, near the border with Botswana. It is renowned for its massive elephant population, with an estimated over 40,000 elephants, as well as large herds of buffalo, and healthy populations of lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs.

The park features a variety of habitats—from open grasslands and mopane woodlands to seasonal pans—supporting over 100 mammal species and 400 bird species. Hwange offers exceptional game viewing, particularly during the dry season (June to October) when animals congregate around waterholes.

Unlike more crowded safari parks, Hwange is known for its uncrowded, authentic safari experience. Visitors can explore the park through guided game drives, walking safaris, and photographic safaris. It is easily accessible by road or air from Victoria Falls, making it a popular addition to Zimbabwe’s northern safari circuit.

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, is located in the southwestern part of the country and is known as the cultural capital of Zimbabwe. With wide tree-lined streets, colonial-era architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere, Bulawayo offers a rich blend of history, art, and access to key natural attractions.

The city is home to the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, one of the best in Africa, showcasing wildlife, geology, and archaeological exhibits. Other highlights include the Bulawayo Railway Museum, the National Art Gallery, and Makhokhoba, the oldest township known for its vibrant local culture and music.

Bulawayo is the gateway to Matobo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its dramatic granite rock formations, ancient San rock art, and white rhino tracking. The city also provides access to Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls, making it a strategic stop for travelers exploring southern Zimbabwe.