Zimbabwe 5 Day Itinerary

Zimbabwe 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Harare and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) in Harare
  • Obtain a visa on arrival (requirements below)
  • Transfer to your hotel in the city center

Afternoon

  • Visit the National Heroes Acre, a monument dedicated to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle
  • Explore the National Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
  • Walk through the vibrant streets of Harare and experience the local culture

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Zimbabwean cuisine at a local restaurant
  • Relax at your hotel or explore the city’s nightlife

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of certain countries can obtain a visa on arrival, while others need to apply in advance. Check with the Zimbabwe Department of Immigration for specific requirements.
  • A single-entry visa costs around $30-$50 USD and is valid for 30 days.

Day 2: Harare to Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Morning

  • Drive to Masvingo (approx. 3 hours) and visit the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore the ancient city, including the Temple of the Zimbabwe Birds and the Valley of Many Stones

Afternoon

  • Continue exploring the ruins and learn about the history and significance of this ancient civilization

Evening

  • Overnight at a nearby lodge or hotel, such as the Great Zimbabwe Hotel

Transportation:

  • Rent a car or book a guided tour to travel between destinations. Road conditions can be challenging, so consider hiring a driver or using public transportation.

Day 3: Matopos Hills and Bulawayo

Morning

  • Drive to Matopos Hills (approx. 2 hours) and explore the scenic hills and granite formations
  • Visit the grave of Cecil John Rhodes, a British colonialist and explorer

Afternoon

  • Continue exploring the Matopos Hills, including the popular View of the World viewpoint
  • Transfer to Bulawayo (approx. 1 hour), Zimbabwe’s second-largest city

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Bulawayo
  • Relax at your hotel or explore the city’s nightlife

Day 4: Hwange National Park

Morning

  • Drive to Hwange National Park (approx. 2 hours) and embark on a guided game drive
  • Spot iconic African wildlife, including lions, elephants, and giraffes

Afternoon

  • Continue exploring the park, including the Mandavu Dam and the Nehimba Seep

Evening

  • Overnight at a safari lodge within the park or nearby, such as the Hwange Safari Lodge

Day 5: Return to Harare

Morning

  • Drive back to Harare (approx. 4 hours) with stops at scenic viewpoints and local markets
  • Visit the Domboshawa Caves, a sacred site for the Shona people

Afternoon

  • Explore the Mbare Market, a bustling hub of local vendors selling handicrafts and souvenirs
  • Return to your hotel in Harare and relax after a fulfilling trip

Additional Tips:

  • Zimbabwe uses the USD as its official currency, but you may also use credit cards or exchange other currencies.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting cultural sites.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak rainy season (December to March) for better road conditions.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and wildlife experiences, but feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip to Zimbabwe!