Zimbabwe trip | Self drive Zimbabwe pristine nature

Zimbabwe is a country in Africa and borders Zambia, Mozambique, South Africa and Botswana. Its area is 390,580 square kilometres, making it 9.4 times the size of the Netherlands. The country is known for its pristine nature and wildlife parks. The landscape is hilly and has some mountainous areas. Major attractions are therefore Lake Kariba, the Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls.

One of the biggest attractions in Africa and one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world are the Victoria Falls on Zambezi River. The Victoria Falls is the only waterfall with a length of almost a kilometre and a height of about 100 metres. The waterfall lies as a piece of natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and is called Mosi oa tunya, the smoke that thunders. From here, the adventurous among you can also conquer the Zambezi in a splashing white water rafting excursion with water rapids like "the devils washing machine". There is also the opportunity to take a chilling plunge down a bungee jump from the bridge at the falls. But a "Flight of the Angels" by helicopter, ultralight or small plane will also be a lasting memory. This sightseeing flight is called The flight of the Angels because, according to the discoverer of the falls, Dr Livingstone, even angels flew around here to witness this beautiful natural phenomenon.

Gonarezhou, bordering Mozambique in the south-eastern lowveld of Zimbabwe, means 'place of elephants'. Gonarezhou is Zimbabwe's second-largest national park and home to more than 10,000 elephants. The park stretches over an area composed of scrubland, mopane forest and pale orange sandstone cliffs. The park is home to four of Africa's 'Big Five', namely the elephant, leopard, lion and buffalo - as well as a multitude of other animal and bird species. In total, about 140 species of mammals and more than 500 different species of birds live in the work. This makes a visit to the park more than worthwhile.

Located on Zimbabwe's eastern highlands, the rolling hills of the 47,000-hectare Nyanga National Park are home to a host of scenic rivers and streams. In addition, breathtaking waterfalls can be found. The park boasts both the highest mountain peak in Zimbabwe and the highest waterfall. Because the park is located in higher ground, the climate is cool and pleasant and the mountain air is often fresh; perfect for rest, relaxation and numerous outdoor activities. The mountainous terrain and sparkling freshwater springs provide excellent opportunities for fishing, sailing, canoeing, swimming and hiking. Visitors may encounter a variety of fascinating wildlife, including kudu, zebra, impala, sables and eland.

Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve), located in western Zimbabwe, is the country's largest nature reserve and is known for its rich diversity of wildlife. The northern and western parts of the park are distinct - the northern part is surrounded by the Zambezi river basin, while the western part consists of grasslands, swamps and scattered forests. Of particular note are natural seeps such as Nehimba and Shakwanki, where animals dig for water. The park is home to one of the largest elephant populations in the world, as well as about 100 mammal species and several protected animals, including the endangered wild dog, the critically endangered black rhino and the rare roan and sable. About 500 bird species also live in the area. Visitors can look forward to bush walks, game drives and horseback safaris.

Lake Mutirikwe is surrounded by majestic granite formations in southeastern Zimbabwe. Formerly known as Lake Kyle or Kyle Dam, it is a pristine reservoir carefully constructed to supply water to the Lowveld estates, especially around Triangle, a major centre for sugarcane cultivation. This breathtaking lake offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, camping, leisurely picnics and serene sailing. As part of the Lake Mutirikwi Recreational Park, it is home to a variety of wildlife, including white rhinos, zebras, giraffes, impalas and kudu. The park also organises cultural educational programmes in collaboration with the local Nyoongar people, highlighting the area's rich history and heritage. Explore this natural gem through equestrian safaris, guided game drives, rhino tours and bird watching.

Matobo National Park is known for its rich history, diversity of flora and fauna and stunning rugged terrain. This pristine wilderness boasts an array of massive, red granite boulders and beautiful, forested valleys making it a dream destination for hikers, climbers and nature lovers. The reserve is easily accessible and is home to several African wildlife species, including the highly endangered black and white rhino, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, cheetah, hippo and crocodile, as well as the largest concentration of leopards and black eagles in Africa.

On the border of Zimbabwe and Mozambique, 30 kilometres south-east of Mutare, the spectacular mountains of Bvumba rise to an impressive 1911-metre peak at Castle Beacon. The year-round abundance of exotic flora and fauna makes Bvumba an ideal destination for nature lovers in search of the region's rarest species of birds and butterflies, as well as an endangered Samango monkey and even the elusive mountain leopard. Spend your days hiking through Bvumba's picturesque hills, green natural forests and breathtaking landscapes, where you will discover a botanical treasure trove. Don't miss the Bunga Forest botanical reserve and the nearby Bvumba botanical garden, designed around several small streams.

Imire, located just 90 minutes from Harare, Zimbabwe's capital, is a conservation area for rhinos and other wildlife, including elephants, lions, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes and more than 10 different species of antelope. Bird lovers can look forward to spotting more than 150 different species of birds, including raptors, waterfowl and kingfishers. Visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy Zimbabwe's natural landscape, volunteer for experiences with rhino and elephant, and enjoy camping under the stars.

Zimbabwe's eastern border with Mozambique is defined by the Eastern Highlands, comprised of three ranges of hills and mountains featuring the lush rolling hills and endless tea plantations of the Nyanga Range, the soaring granite peaks of the Chimanimani Mountains, and the fertile meadows and rich coffee plantations of the Bvumba Range. These breathtakingly scenic mountains serve as an ideal backdrop for the wide variety of outdoor pursuits on offer such as hiking, horse riding, golfing, and trout fishing. The northern reaches of this remarkable wilderness features predominantly rolling heathland which reminded European Settlers of Scotland leading them to create lakes, plant forests and fill the streams with trout. Once the private estate of Cecil John Rhodes, this northernmost area is now known as the Nyanga National Park. From the gorgeous pine forests and trout lakes of this extraordinary park to the yellowwood trees, protea shrubs and refreshing mountain pools of Chimanimani in the south, the Eastern Highlands is the perfect destination for travellers looking to unwind in the tranquillity of nature.

Located in western Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve) is the country's largest nature reserve and famous for its rich diversity of wildlife. Home to one of the largest elephant populations in the world and around 100 mammal species, the park is a wonderland for animal lovers. Several protected animals live in the awe-inspiring open landscapes, including the endangered wild dog, the critically endangered black rhinoceros and the rare roan and sable, along with lions, cheetahs and around 500 bird species. Adventurers can look forward to guided bush walks, game drives and horseback safaris, all of which offer excellent photographic opportunities. Hwange has some unique natural features, particularly the natural springs such as Nehimba and Shakwanki where animals dig for water.