Multi-Day Routes Through Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe covers 390,757 km2, larger than Germany, so most multi-day trips follow one region and link a few stops. These routes are built from places that sit on the same road or flight path.
North-west circuit: Victoria Falls and Hwange
Start with 2 or 3 nights at Victoria Falls for the rainforest, the gorge and a Zambezi cruise. Bulawayo is about 440 km away on the A8, and the drive takes 5.5 to 6.5 hours. Hwange Main Camp is about 172 to 195 km from Victoria Falls, roughly 2.5 hours, and a 2 or 3 night stay gives time for several game drives. The best viewing is from August to November, and October heat can pass 40 C.
South-west and south-east: Bulawayo, Matobo and Great Zimbabwe
Base 2 nights in Bulawayo for Matobo National Park (rock paintings, World’s View and rhino tracking on foot) and the Khami Ruins, which are about 22 km west of the city. Great Zimbabwe is a further 4 to 5 hours from Bulawayo and about 27 km from Masvingo, so sleep in or near Masvingo and visit in the morning, when the climb to the Hill Complex is cooler.
Lake Kariba and Mana Pools
Kariba town is roughly 340 to 365 km from Harare, a drive of 4.5 to 6 hours. Crewed houseboats leave from harbours near the town, and a charter usually includes a captain, cook and deckhand, with fuel billed at the end. Prices vary widely between boats, so request written quotes. Matusadona National Park lies on the southern shore and is reached by boat from Kariba town. Never swim from the boat or the shore, because the lake holds crocodiles and hippos and bilharzia is a risk.
Mana Pools is reached by 4x4 on unpaved roads or by light aircraft. Flooding limits access from about mid-December to the end of March. Walking is allowed with a ZimParks permit, and a licensed guide is recommended.
Gonarezhou
This remote park in the south-east is best from about April to November. The top of the Chilojo Cliffs is usually reachable from about June or July to November, when the Runde River can be forded. High clearance is needed and a 4x4 is recommended. Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge sits just outside the park, and fly-in guests land at Mahenye airstrip.
Eastern Highlands
Nyanga, Bvumba and Chimanimani form a cooler leg for hiking, gardens and waterfalls, and April to October suits walking best. Check road conditions and fees locally before you set out.
Planning notes
Book each leg with a lodge transfer or a licensed driver, and avoid long-distance minibuses and night driving. Carry small US dollar notes, because change is scarce.
Read more: 3 day itinerary and Day trips .
Plan with the UK government advice and Gonarezhou visitor information . Compare stays on Booking.com .