Safari in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is home to Victoria Falls, one of the world's great natural wonders, and Hwange National Park with its massive elephant herds. The country offers...

Zimbabwe Safari at a Glance

8 safari regions, 79 parks & reserves, 254 wildlife species recorded.

Travel Advisories for Zimbabwe

UK FCDO: See travel advice before travelling.

Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe

The best months to visit Zimbabwe are September, October, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 23.5°C, rainfall 224mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 75.2%
  • February: Good, temperature 23.9°C, rainfall 140.7mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 72.1%
  • March: Great, temperature 23.6°C, rainfall 45.4mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 66.7%
  • April: Great, temperature 22.2°C, rainfall 25.6mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 61.7%
  • May: Great, temperature 20°C, rainfall 5mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 54.2%
  • June: Great, temperature 17.7°C, rainfall 7.1mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 53.3%
  • July: Great, temperature 17.4°C, rainfall 3.1mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 48.8%
  • August: Great, temperature 20.3°C, rainfall 5.8mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 44.3%
  • September: Great, temperature 23.7°C, rainfall 4.9mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 41.1%
  • October: Great, temperature 25.6°C, rainfall 19.1mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 43.7%
  • November: Great, temperature 26.2°C, rainfall 64.6mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 52.8%
  • December: Great, temperature 25.2°C, rainfall 160.3mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 64.9%

Wildlife in Zimbabwe

Home to 254 recorded species including 84 iconic birds, 64 birds of prey, 63 waterbirds, 11 tropical birds, 7 antelope & gazelle, 6 big herbivores.

Notable Species in Zimbabwe

Recommended Packing List for Zimbabwe

Based on average temperature of 22.4°C, typical conditions, humidity 57%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 22°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Safety & Health - Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe offers an incredibly authentic and rewarding safari experience, but like any adventure travel, it requires sensible preparation. By taking recommended health precautions and exercising general awareness, you'll be well-prepared to immerse yourselves in its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. We find that a little planning ensures a truly unforgettable and safe journey.

Visa

For most nationalities, a visa is required to enter Zimbabwe. We recommend checking the latest requirements with your embassy or consulate well in advance of your trip. Many visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at major ports of entry, but it's always best to confirm. If you plan to visit both Zimbabwe and Zambia, we highly recommend looking into the KAZA Uni-Visa, which simplifies cross-border travel around Victoria Falls.

Malaria

Malaria is a risk throughout most of Zimbabwe, particularly in low-lying areas and all our favourite safari destinations like Hwange National Park and Mana Pools. We unequivocally recommend taking anti-malarial prophylaxis as prescribed by your doctor. Beyond medication, we always advise diligent use of insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, especially from dusk till dawn. Sleeping under mosquito nets, which most reputable lodges provide, and wearing long-sleeved shirts and trousers in the evenings are essential layers of protection.

Safari Calendar - Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe offers exceptional value and authentic safari experiences, and knowing when to go truly enhances the journey. We generally recommend the dry season from May to October for classic game viewing, when wildlife congregates around shrinking water sources and the vegetation thins. For those who prioritize birding, lush landscapes, and the magic of new life, the green season from November to April is surprisingly rewarding, especially if you embrace the occasional downpour. Victoria Falls is magnificent year-round, though its spray is most impressive during the wet season. We always advise considering a combination of Hwange's vast plains with Mana Pools' walking safaris for a truly immersive experience.

January - Green Season

We love the dramatic skies and lush scenery, making this a fantastic month for photographers and keen birders seeking a different perspective.

February - Green Season

We recommend embracing the quiet beauty of the green season, where the landscape truly comes alive and you often have the parks to yourselves.

March - Green Season

We find this month offers a wonderful balance of vibrant landscapes and improving game viewing, perfect for those seeking value and fewer crowds.

April - Shoulder Season

We love April for its comfortable weather and excellent value, offering a fantastic opportunity to experience Zimbabwe before the high season rush.

May - Dry Season

We recommend May for those who prefer cooler temperatures and the start of classic dry season game viewing without the peak season crowds.

June - Dry Season

We find June to be an ideal month for a traditional safari, offering superb game viewing conditions and comfortable daytime temperatures.

July - Dry Season

We consider July a prime month for an unforgettable safari, especially for those seeking intense wildlife encounters and the thrill of the chase.

August - Dry Season

We love August for its consistent, high-quality game viewing and the vibrant atmosphere, though booking well in advance is essential.

September - Dry Season

We recommend September for seasoned safari-goers who thrive on the raw, unfiltered drama of the bush and don't mind the heat.

October - Dry Season

We find October to be incredibly rewarding for those seeking the most intense and concentrated wildlife viewing, especially around Hwange's waterholes.

November - Shoulder Season / Short Rains

We love November for its dynamic weather and the exciting anticipation of the green season, offering a chance to witness the bush's transformation.

December - Green Season

We recommend December for a festive safari experience, enjoying the lush scenery, abundant birdlife, and the magic of new life in the bush.

Safari Regions

Zimbabwe FAQs

When is the optimal time for a canoeing safari on the Lower Zambezi, and what makes it special then?

The dry season, from July to October, is ideal for canoeing safaris on the Lower Zambezi. During this period, water levels are lower, concentrating wildlife along the riverbanks and making sightings of elephants, hippos, and various bird species more frequent and accessible from your canoe. The cooler mornings also make for a more comfortable paddling experience.

What is the typical cost range for a mid-range safari in Zimbabwe, and what does this usually include?

A mid-range safari in Zimbabwe typically ranges from $400 to $800 per person per night, depending on the camp and season. This cost generally covers full-board accommodation, daily safari activities like game drives and walks, park fees, and internal light aircraft transfers between camps. International flights, premium drinks, and gratuities are usually extra.

What are the key health and safety considerations for travelers planning a safari in Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe is a malaria-risk area, especially in lower-lying regions like Mana Pools and the Zambezi Valley, so prophylaxis is recommended. While political stability has improved, it's always wise to stay informed and book with reputable safari operators who prioritize guest safety and have established local networks. General precautions against petty crime in urban areas are also advisable.

Beyond the well-known elephant herds, what unique wildlife encounters can I expect in Zimbabwe, particularly in areas like Mana Pools National Park?

Mana Pools National Park is particularly renowned for its highly habituated painted wolves (African wild dogs), offering incredible viewing opportunities. You can also expect to see large herds of majestic sable antelope, numerous lion prides, and unique interactions with elephants that stand on their hind legs to reach acacia pods. Birdlife is also exceptionally diverse, especially along the Zambezi River.

Is there a specific visa arrangement for travelers wanting to combine a Zimbabwe safari with a visit to neighboring Zambia?

Yes, the KAZA Uni-Visa allows eligible travelers to enter both Zimbabwe and Zambia multiple times within a 30-day period, as long as they remain within the two countries. This convenient visa simplifies cross-border travel, making it easier to combine a Zimbabwean safari with attractions like Livingstone in Zambia. It can often be obtained on arrival at major ports of entry.

Recommended Books for Zimbabwe

  • Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight by Alexandra Fuller - Raw and unflinching memoir of growing up in Rhodesia/Zimbabwe during the civil war. One of the most honest accounts of life in southern Africa.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Bradt Guide: Zimbabwe by Paul Murray - The most detailed guide to Zimbabwe including Hwange, Mana Pools, Matobo Hills, and Victoria Falls. Written by a Zimbabwe specialist with decades of experience.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.

Other Safari Countries in Southern Africa