Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is once again firmly on the southern African safari map, for all the reasons that once made it a prime destination. The landlocked country is home to some of the finest game viewing in exceptionally beautiful wilderness areas, the great natural spectacle of Victoria Falls, or The Smoke that Thunders, is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, as well historical-cultural attractions such as the ruins of the ancient civilisation of Great Zimbabwe and 13 000-year-old rock art.

Zimbabwe is a Big Five safari destination, and the superb Hwange National Park is its flagship reserve, best known for its massive herds of elephants and excellent sightings during the dry winter months. But there’s more to safaris in Zimbabwe than just animal spotting on game drive: it’s one of the best countries for doing walking safaris –

Lake Kariba, with its game-rich shores and islands, is an ideal safari spot containing spectacular sunsets, while Mana Pools National Park is one of few national parks in Africa that allows unguided walking – and its canoeing safaris along the Zambezi River are epic adventures that immerse you fully in the natural world. What’s so special about Zimbabwe is how uncrowded its parks are: wherever you go, you’ll be able to enjoy the peace and quiet of the bush without the traffic jams and crowds of other reserves in Africa.