Discovering Zimbabwe’s Natural Marvels

Located in southeast Africa between the Zambezi and Limpopo Rivers, Zimbabwe is a country filled with stunning natural marvels. Not only is Zimbabwe home to the largest waterfall in the world, but it is also home to the world’s largest man-made lake.
Safaris in Zimbabwe offer the opportunity to explore the incredible animal biodiversity, including the famous ‘Big Five’ and many other species. If you have not yet experienced the wonder offered by Zimbabwe safaris, now may be the time to do so!
In this article, we shed light on what makes this landlocked African country so special and tell you more about its geographical features, climate, biodiversity and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Geographical Features
Zimbabwe is a land of geographical diversity, as it is home to long stretches of savanna, flowing waterfalls, mighty rivers, mountainous regions, wooded areas, and so much more. The country’s geographical regions can be divided into three main categories: the Lowveld, the Middleveld, and the Highveld.
- Lowveld
The Lowveld region of Zimbabwe, which has altitudes of less than 800 metres above sea level, is an area of sandy basins that slope into Lake Kariba or the Zambezi River. This area accounts for nearly one-fifth of all the land in Zimbabwe, where the weather is hottest and driest. The Lowveld is known for its large rhino populations, red earth, and large baobab trees.
- Middleveld
Zimbabwe’s Middleveld can be found on either side of the country’s Highveld. The altitudes of this region typically range from 900-1,200 meters above sea level and contain areas of wooded savanna and small hills. This area of rolling plateaus accounts for almost half of Zimbabwe’s entire territory. There are many game reserves and national parks found in this region.
- Highveld
The Highveld refers to any part of Zimbabwe with an altitude of over 1,200 metres. It runs from the northeast to the southeast parts of the country and is made up of flattish plateaus and rugged mountain ranges. Some of the most famous natural features in the Highveld include Mount Nyangan and the Umvukwe Mountain Range.
Climate
Zimbabwe is known for its warm, mild climate, making it suitable to visit the country all year round. The country’s climate can be classed as ‘subtropical’, which means it experiences a hot summer and a dry winter.
Zimbabwe’s rainy season takes place every year between October and March. This is also when temperatures are the hottest. Temperatures during this time typically range between 18°C and 32°C, depending on which part of the country you’re visiting.
The dry season takes place between June and August. This period is when you can experience the coolest temperatures. Daytime temperatures during the winter typically range between 10°C and 28°C, and may drop significantly after nightfall.
The best time to visit Zimbabwe is during the middle and end of the dry season (July- October). During these months, animals gather around the watering holes, making for fantastic wildlife viewing. This period also offers very little chance of rain and comfortable temperatures.
If your main reason for visiting Zimbabwe is to see the Victoria Falls, you may want to visit between February and June, which is when the water will be flowing most dramatically.
Biodiversity
- Animal Biodiversity
Zimbabwe is famously home to the ‘Big Five’, which includes rhinos, buffalos, lions, leopards, and giraffes. However, many animals can be found in this African country, including hippos, crocodiles, monkeys, snakes, antelope, hyenas, and so many more.
The country is also a bird-lovers paradise, with over 650 bird species, including weavers, eagles, cranes, and more.
- Plant Biodiversity
Zimbabwe is home to over 6,300 native plants, thanks to its rich ecosystems and varied landscapes. Some of the most common plant species include date palms, desert roses, aloe vera, guava trees, and golden dewdrops.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Khami Ruins
Located roughly 20 kilometres west of Bulawayo, the Khami Ruins are the ruins of an ancient city. Khami was the capital of the Great Zimbabwe Kingdom and was abandoned sometime during the 19th century.
The Khami ruins are of significant archaeological interest and have shed light on what life may have been like in Zimbabwe hundreds of years ago. Dozens of objects from China and Europe were discovered within the ruins, showing that Khami was an important trade centre.
Those interested in Zimbabwe’s history and archaeology should not miss out on the opportunity to visit this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Victoria Falls
With a width of over 1,700 meters, Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world and easily Zimbabwe’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. The impressive falls attract thousands of international visitors each year.
The waterfall, located on the Zambezi River, can be found at the Zambian border. The falls provide a unique natural habitat for a diverse range of plant and animal species. The sound of the falls can be deafening, yet the fast-flowing water is truly a sight to behold.
Plenty of activities can be done around the falls, including hiking, cruises, safaris, and even helicopter rides.
- Great Zimbabwe
The Great Zimbabwe National Monument is the ruins of a medieval city that thrived between the 11th and 15th centuries. Legend has it that this city was once the capital of the Queen of Sheba and was an important trading centre.
You can find the ancient city’s ruins around 30 kilometres from the town of Masvingo. The area can be separated into three parts: the Hill Ruins, the Valley Ruins, and the Great Enclosure.
This is a must-see attraction for all architecture enthusiasts.
- Mana Pools National Park
Found in the far north of the country, Mana Pools National Park is one of two national parks that have been named World Heritage Sites. Thanks to the area’s diverse range of wildlife, this is where you can experience some of the best safaris in Zimbabwe.
The park is located on the south bank of the mighty Zambezi River. Many animals flock to the river to drink from it, so you can look forward to seeing elephants, crocodiles, and hippos.
The park is home to some of the country’s top guides, and you’ll enjoy exciting safaris of all kinds, including walking safaris.
- Matobo Hills National Park
The Matobo Hills are a range of fascinating rock formations created over time because of the erosion of the plateau. Another major attraction within this national park is the Stone Age rock art that can be found on the walls of the Nswatugi Cave.
Matobo Hills National Park is in southwest Zimbabwe. There are plenty of safari opportunities available as the park is famed for its populations of rhinos and black eagles, among many other animals. This is also where you will find the grave of Cecil Rhodes, the founder of Rhodesia (former British colony).
Are you ready to discover Zimbabwe’s natural marvels for yourself? Then it may be time to look into the incredible safaris in Zimbabwe offered by Tailormade Africa. We’d love to hear more about your preferences so that we can create a custom package that suits your needs. Contact us today to chat with one of our knowledgeable safari consultants about our Zimbabwe safaris.