5 attractions in Zimbabwe you'll never forget

Zimbabwe's attractions stretch far beyond Victoria Falls. Here are five places likely to stay with you long after you leave.

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Zimbabwe has a habit of exceeding expectations. Travellers arrive for Victoria Falls and discover ancient stone cities, extraordinary wildlife and landscapes that stretch far beyond the obvious tourist route. If you are planning a first visit, these five attractions make an excellent introduction to the country.

Victoria Falls
Start with the obvious.

Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, is one of the world's great natural spectacles. The Zambezi River plunges into a series of gorges between Zimbabwe and Zambia, creating a vast curtain of spray.

Zimbabwe's tourism authority notes that much of the classic view of the Falls is experienced from the Zimbabwean rainforest. The surrounding town also provides access to river cruises, rafting and other activities.

Hwange National Park

South of Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park offers a completely different experience. It is Zimbabwe's largest national park and is particularly associated with elephants. Yet the attraction is not simply the possibility of seeing a large herd. Hwange's savannah landscapes, waterholes and changing light create the kind of safari experience that rewards patience. Zimbabwe's tourism authority lists Hwange among the country's principal wildlife destinations.

Great Zimbabwe
Travel south towards Masvingo and the landscape changes again.

Here, the Great Zimbabwe Monument rises from the surrounding granite country. Built between the 11th and 15th centuries, the stone city was once the centre of a powerful Shona civilisation.

Its massive dry-stone walls are a reminder that Zimbabwe's most impressive attractions are not all natural. This is a place to take your time. Walk among the granite walls and consider the engineering, organisation and history represented by the ruins.

Matobo National Park

Near Bulawayo, Matobo National Park offers a landscape unlike almost anywhere else in Zimbabwe. Huge granite boulders balance across hills and valleys, creating a dramatic setting for wildlife, hiking and cultural exploration.

The Matobo landscape is also associated with ancient rock art and the grave of Cecil John Rhodes, while the wider Matobo Hills are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a destination where geology and history seem to share the same stage.

Mana Pools National Park
Then there is Mana Pools.

Along the Zambezi River in northern Zimbabwe, the park is renowned for wildlife and wilderness experiences. It forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage landscape and is particularly famous for encounters with elephants, hippos and other animals around the floodplains. Zimbabwe's tourism authority lists Mana Pools among its major attractions.

Together, these five places show why Zimbabwe deserves more than a quick stop at Victoria Falls. From roaring water and ancient stone to elephants and granite hills, it offers a remarkably varied journey.