Zimbabwe Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on an exciting journey to Zimbabwe with the Zimbabwe Road Trip! Starting in the capital city of Harare, you'll visit some of the most amazing and beautiful places in the country. Enjoy the spectacular views of Mana Pools National Park, Kariba and Matusadona National Park, and take in the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. You'll also have the chance to explore the city of Bulawayo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The total distance of this road trip is 2484km and can be comfortably completed in 12 days. The best time of year to take the journey is from May to October, when the roads are in the best condition. With its varied landscapes, diverse wildlife and cultural heritage, the Zimbabwe Road Trip offers something for everyone. So, get ready for an adventure of a lifetime, and make sure to bring your camera! Even if you're on a tight budget, this road trip can be done without breaking the bank.
12
number of days
2,417 km
route length
fair
budget
adventurer
good for
on the left
traffic direction
extreme
accident level
Victoria Falls
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START
Harare
Distance 2,417 km
Driving time 42.2 h
Pace: modest
628.4 kWh
Airports
HRE
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Harare is a vibrant, bustling city and the perfect starting point for a Zimbabwe Road Trip. Located in the northeast of Zimbabwe, Harare is a great base for exploring the country. It is a modern city with many attractions, including the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, the National Botanic Gardens, and the National Heroes Acre.
The closest international airport to Harare is Harare International Airport (HRE), and car rentals are available at the airport. From here, travelers can explore the city and its surrounding areas. The city is home to many historical sites, including the National History Museum, the Zimbabwe National Library and the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences.
Harare also has many outdoor activities for travelers to enjoy, such as hiking, mountain biking, and game viewing in the nearby game parks. There are also numerous shops and restaurants in the city, as well as many cultural and artistic events and activities.
Harare is the perfect starting point for a Zimbabwe Road Trip, offering travelers a great base from which to explore the country and its many attractions.
Harare
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1
Harare
- Mana Pools N.P.
Distance 363 km
Driving time 6.8 h
Pace: modest
94.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Harare, Zimbabwe to Mana Pools National Park, a distance of 386km and a driving time of fewer than 8 hours. This stage of your journey is sure to be a memorable one, with plenty of historical sites and picturesque landscapes to take in along the way.
Start your journey in Harare, a vibrant city with plenty of attractions to explore. From here, you will journey across the country, passing through small towns and villages. As you travel, take time to appreciate the beauty of the countryside and the traditional customs of the locals.
In no time you will arrive at Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will be able to spot a variety of wildlife and admire the stunning landscapes. You can also take a boat ride on the Zambezi River or go on a game drive to explore the park.
Make sure to take plenty of photos along the way and take time to appreciate the beauty of the countryside. With so much to see and do, this is a road trip you won’t soon forget. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Mana Pools N.P. - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - Shadows Of Africa
Mana Pools N.P. - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - Yebo Travel Tours
Mana Pools N.P. - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Mana Pools N.P.
- Kariba
Distance 115 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: modest
29.8 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe to Kariba, a journey of 146 km that will take you fewer than 9 hours to complete. As you drive, you’ll be rewarded with picturesque landscapes, so take your time and enjoy the scenery. Along the way, be sure to take a break and visit the Sapi Concession, a private wildlife area teeming with game like elephants, lions, and buffalo. You can also stop at the Chirundu Bridge, a bridge built over the Zambezi River that offers breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding area. As you continue your journey, you’ll also pass through the Zambezi Escarpment, an area of stunning beauty. Finally, you’ll arrive in Kariba, a town situated on the shores of the lake of the same name. Here, you can take a boat tour and explore the lake, or visit the nearby Kariba Dam, a hydroelectric dam built in the 1950s. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Bon voyage!
Kariba - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - Wild Zambezi
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Kariba
- Matusadona N.P.
Distance 307 km
Driving time 5.9 h
Pace: modest
79.7 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Kariba, Zimbabwe to Matusadona National Park? This 314 km journey is one of the stages of a larger tour and will take you fewer than 6 hours to complete.
The journey starts in Kariba, a vibrant city located on the shores of Lake Kariba and surrounded by the majestic Zambezi Valley. Here, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, game viewing, and boat cruises.
The next stop is Chirundu, a small town located on the Zambezi River and the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Here, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as bird watching, game viewing, and boat cruises.
The next stop is Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful parks in Africa. Here, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as game viewing, bird watching, and canoeing.
The final stop is Matusadona National Park, a stunning park located on the shores of Lake Kariba and surrounded by the majestic Zambezi Valley. Here, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as game viewing, bird watching, and boat cruises.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Matusadona N.P. - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - Lucky Bean Travel
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Matusadona N.P.
- Binga
Distance 173 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: modest
44.9 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing journey from Matusadona National Park in Zimbabwe to Binga. This 178 km trip will take you less than 5 hours, and you’ll get to see some of the most beautiful sights in the region.
Start your journey in the Matusadona National Park, which is known for its beautiful wildlife, including elephants, lions, and buffaloes. Here you can also find the Sanyati Gorge, which is a spectacular natural formation with a breathtaking view.
Continue your journey to Binga, located on the banks of the Zambezi River. Here you can find the Mutinondo Wilderness, a beautiful nature reserve with a variety of wildlife and birds. You can also visit the Hwange National Park, the largest game reserve in Zimbabwe, and the Kariba Dam, the world’s largest man-made lake.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Have a great trip and enjoy the beauty of Zimbabwe!
Binga - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - String Knife and Paper - WordPress.com
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Binga
- Victoria Falls
Distance 310 km
Driving time 6.0 h
Pace: modest
80.5 kWh
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Embark on a captivating journey from Binga, Zimbabwe to Victoria Falls, a drive of 310km that will take you less than 5 hours. This road trip is part of a larger tour, full of breathtaking landscapes and UNESCO Heritage sites. As you drive, take in the picturesque views of the Zambezi River and the lush vegetation of the region.
In Binga, visit the Tonga people and learn about their culture and traditional way of life. As you move towards Victoria Falls, make sure to stop at the Matetsi Safari Area and the Zambezi National Park. The former is home to a variety of wildlife, while the latter is a great spot for bird watching.
Finally, arrive in Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Here, you can take a boat ride on the Zambezi River, visit the Victoria Falls Bridge, and explore the iconic Victoria Falls Rainforest.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - Tamuka Travel
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Victoria Falls
- Lupane
Distance 264 km
Driving time 4.6 h
Pace: modest
68.7 kWh
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Embark on an epic journey starting in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and ending in Lupane, Zimbabwe. Along the way, you'll be able to explore some of the most spectacular and awe-inspiring places in the world. From the majestic Hwange National Park to the breathtaking landscapes of Lupane, this 264 km road trip will provide you with unforgettable memories.
The journey begins in Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. From here, you'll drive through the Hwange National Park, home to an array of wildlife and stunning vistas. Keep your eyes open for the Big 5, as well as a variety of other animals, birds and reptiles.
Your journey will then take you to Lupane, a picturesque town with rolling hills and vast plains. Here, you can take in the breathtaking views and explore the region's rich culture and history.
This road trip should take less than four hours, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the sights along the way. Be sure to take lots of photos of the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Lupane - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - NewZimbabwe.com
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Lupane
- Bulawayo
Distance 180 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: fast
54.1 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Lupane to Bulawayo and explore the wonders of Khami along the way! This 180 km journey will take you less than 3 hours and will take you through some of Zimbabwe's most beautiful and historically significant sites.
Start your journey in Lupane and make your way to Khami, where you will find the Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient city is a fascinating glimpse into the past and a great place to explore and take pictures.
Continue your journey to Bulawayo, where you will find the Matobo National Park. This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered black rhino, and is full of beautiful landscapes and views.
Along the way, take in the picturesque landscapes of Zimbabwe and be sure to take advantage of the many opportunities to take pictures and explore the area. As you travel, be sure to keep an eye out for historical sites and interesting attractions.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!
Bulawayo - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - Mapcarta
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Bulawayo
- Gwanda
Distance 128 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
38.3 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Bulawayo to Gwanda, a journey of 127km that will take you less than two hours to complete. Along the way, you will get to explore the fascinating Matobo National Park, home to some of the most spectacular landscapes and wildlife in Zimbabwe. Here you can visit the ancient rock art sites of Nswatugi Cave and Matobo Hills, as well as the grave of Cecil Rhodes. You can also take a guided tour of the park to admire the diverse flora and fauna, and spot some of the rare species of birds and animals. As you continue your journey, take the time to appreciate the beauty of the countryside and the rolling hills of Matobo. Make sure to keep an eye out for the historical sites that dot the road, such as the ruins of Khami Mission and the memorial of Mzilikazi. Finally, you will arrive in Gwanda, the gateway to the Matobo Hills. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Gwanda - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - Zimbabwe Price Check
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9
Gwanda
- Masvingo
Distance 277 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: fast
83.2 kWh
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Embark in an exciting road trip from Gwanda to Masvingo, Zimbabwe! This 277km journey can be completed in less than 4 hours and is a great way to explore the country. Along the way, you'll be able to visit some of the most interesting places, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Great Zimbabwe, Khami Ruins, and Naletale.
You'll also have the chance to explore the picturesque landscapes of Matobo National Park and Chilojo Cliffs. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife, such as elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.
As you make your way to Masvingo, you'll be able to take a break at the beautiful Lake Mutirikwi, where you can enjoy a picnic or take a swim.
For more information on the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Masvingo - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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Masvingo
- Harare
Distance 301 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: fast
90.2 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Masvingo to Harare? This is one of the most exciting stages of the tour, as it covers a distance of 302 km, and you can complete it in less than 5 hours.
You will have the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting historical sites in Zimbabwe, such as the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, and the Khami Ruins. The Great Zimbabwe Ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological sites in the country. Khami Ruins are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are located near Bulawayo.
On the way to Harare, you will also pass through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Zimbabwe. Make sure to keep an eye out for the stunning views of the Zambezi River, as well as the lush vegetation of the area.
Once you reach Harare, you will be able to visit some of the best attractions in the city, such as the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, the National Botanical Gardens, and the Kariba Dam.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can find it in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Harare - Zimbabwe - Africa - Road Trip - Lonely Planet
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Harare
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So you’ve arrived in Zimbabwe and your road trip is nearing its end. You’re in the capital city, Harare, and this bustling city has plenty to offer.
Harare is the largest city in Zimbabwe, and it is home to many attractions that will make your last few days here a memorable one. You can visit the National Heroes Acre, where many of the country’s fallen heroes are buried, or the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, which houses the country’s best art.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing day out, you can visit the Mukuvisi Woodlands, a nature reserve that is home to a variety of wildlife. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a guided tour of the Mana Pools National Park, where you can spot some of the country’s most impressive wildlife.
Harare also has plenty of shopping and dining options, so you can stock up on souvenirs and try out some of the local cuisine. Make sure to visit the famous Mbare Market, where you can find some of the best bargains in town.
And for those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Harare International Airport (HRE).
Harare is a great place to end your Zimbabwe road trip, so don’t forget to take some time to explore this vibrant city before you leave.
Zimbabwe Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Harare
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End:
Harare
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Distance:
2,417 km
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Stay:
12 days
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Getting there:
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a riveting 12-day Zimbabwe Road Trip spanning over 2,484 kilometers, immersing yourself in the country's diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. Your journey kicks off in Harare, the bustling capital, and takes you through iconic natural wonders such as Mana Pools National Park and the thundering Victoria Falls. Delve into the heritage of the UNESCO-recognized city of Bulawayo, and witness the untamed wilderness of Matusadona National Park, culminating in a Trip that is as educational as it is exhilarating.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Harare: Zimbabwe's vibrant capital and cultural hub, Harare is renowned for its contemporary art scene, sprawling gardens, and bustling markets.
- Mana Pools National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is celebrated for its rich ecosystem, including the Zambezi River and the four large pools that give the park its name, where a multitude of animals congregate, particularly in the dry season.
- Lake Kariba: The world's largest man-made lake by volume, Lake Kariba is a haven for boating, fishing, and soaking in the tranquil vistas of the Zambezi Valley's escarpment.
- Matusadona National Park: Situated on the shores of Lake Kariba, this park is a sanctuary for black rhinos and offers some of the most unspoiled and rugged wilderness areas in Africa, teeming with birdlife and large predators.
- Victoria Falls: Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or `The Smoke That Thunders,` Victoria Falls is a spectacular natural marvel, with a width of 1,708 meters and a height of 108 meters, making it the largest curtain of water in the world.
- Bulawayo: As Zimbabwe's second-largest city, Bulawayo is a cultural center boasting colonial architecture, the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, and proximity to the Khami Ruins, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best Time to Go:
Embarking on this Road Trip between May and October is ideal as you'll enjoy mild weather, less dense vegetation for better wildlife viewing, and generally more accessible Road conditions.
Potential Rispects:
While the adventurous spirit is rewarded, Roadtrippers should be prepared for wildlife encounters on the Road, stretches of unpaved and challenging terrain, and the necessity for a sturdy, well-equipped vehicle.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Zimbabwe's currency situation is complex; ensure you have a mix of US dollars and local currency.
- The country has 16 official languages, with English, Shona, and Ndebele being the most widely spoken.
- Zimbabwe is home to one of the densest concentrations of rock art in Africa, some dating back over 13,000 years.
- Be sure to explore the unique balancing rock formations at Matobo National Park, not far from Bulawayo.
A good choice for:
The Zimbabwe Road Trip is a journey of discovery, connecting travelers with the pulsating heart of African wilderness, awe-inspiring natural beauty, and a cultural history that stretches back millennia. It's a must-do for adventurers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts alike.
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