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Zimbabwe Road Trip

Harare - Mana Pools N.P. - Kariba - Matusadona N.P. - Binga - Victoria Falls - Lupane - Bulawayo - Gwanda - Masvingo

Expect on your itinerary

Wildlife Wildlife
Landscape Landscape
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Historical sites Historical sites
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Urban life Urban life
Zimbabwe Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages10 km2,430 h/stage4.3

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Zimbabwe Road Trip in Zimbabwe?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,836EUR drive & more 325EUR sleep & more 638EUR eat & more 576EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,539EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,375EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,592EUR drive & more 438EUR sleep & more 946EUR eat & more 864EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,248EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,840EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,672EUR drive & more 588EUR sleep & more 2,222EUR eat & more 1,152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,962EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 7,634EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,700EUR drive & more 650EUR sleep & more 660EUR eat & more 576EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,886EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,586EUR
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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.
number of days 12 number of days
route length 2,430 km route length
budget fair budget
good for adventurer good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level extreme accident level

START Harare

Distance 2,430 km Driving time 42.9 h Pace: modest 631.7 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.

1 Harare - Mana Pools N.P.

Distance 363 km Driving time 5.8 h Pace: fast 108.9 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site accommodation options attractive landscape
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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.

2 Mana Pools N.P. - Kariba

Distance 115 km Driving time 2.2 h Pace: modest 29.9 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape camping sites
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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!

3 Kariba - Matusadona N.P.

Distance 314 km Driving time 6.7 h Pace: modest 81.7 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape camping sites
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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!

4 Matusadona N.P. - Binga

Distance 178 km Driving time 5.3 h Pace: slow 40.9 kWh View map Itinerary
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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!

5 Binga - Victoria Falls

Distance 310 km Driving time 5.2 h Pace: modest 80.5 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site attractive landscape accommodation options interesting  historic site camping sites
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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!

6 Victoria Falls - Lupane

Distance 264 km Driving time 3.6 h Pace: fast 79.3 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape accommodation options junction of road trips interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site camping sites
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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.

7 Lupane - Bulawayo

Distance 180 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: fast 54.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape interesting cultural site accommodation options
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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!

8 Bulawayo - Gwanda

Distance 128 km Driving time 2.2 h Pace: modest 33.2 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site accommodation options junction of road trips interesting cultural site attractive landscape
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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!

9 Gwanda - Masvingo

Distance 277 km Driving time 5.6 h Pace: modest 72.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips
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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!

10 Masvingo - Harare

Distance 300 km Driving time 3.9 h Pace: fast 90.1 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site accommodation options junction of road trips
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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

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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

We believe that our journey idea gave you multiple inspirations for your future holidays.
The plan we’ve prepared can be used as a foundation that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with original stopovers of your choice.
If car travel is a travel option you prefer, there are a number of vital road rules to follow and a bunch of things to be mindful of to make your trip smooth and safe. The following road rules will surely become useful for all drivers considering renting a car or renting a camper in Zimbabwe.
There are a number of traffic rules to be remembered while driving around Zimbabwe. When moving around Zimbabwe in a car, it is best to avoid spirits. Travellers ought to remember that the permitted consumption limit is extremely low and is only 0‰. In order to avoid a speeding fine, it is best to never exceed 60km/h, which is the maximum speed inside the cities. If you are aiming for non-build-up areas, you should bear in mind that the maximum speed is 120km/h. You can drive at the maximum speed of 120km/h on motorways. Having a first aid kit and fire extinguisher in your car and driving with your headlights on at daytime increase the safety.
One of the decisive factors when scheduling an itinerary is costs. Well, depending on the budget option that you’re interested in, the amount of money that you have to spend on your trip expenses may differ. A wide range of budget options is showed below.
We estimate that the cheapest option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 2,430km across Zimbabwe will cost approximately 325 EUR. Economy accommodation options may cost tourists approximately 638 EUR. Tourists who go for this option will spend roughly 576 EUR on restaurants and food. Travellers will have to pay approximately 1,836 EUR if they choose the cheapest car hire option as well. Thus, going for vehicle rental will increase the expenses of the road trip from around 1,539 EUR to roughly 3,375 EUR.
Drivers who seek greater comfort and the standard option will pay roughly 438 EUR for the gasoline needed to cover the tour. If you are into standard accommodation options, you should keep in mind that the costs can amount up to approximately 946 EUR. Holidaymakers can expect that the standard option in terms of food and restaurants will cost about 864 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard rental vehicle can expect a cost of approximately 2,592 EUR. Generally, those who are interested in a standard option without car rental will pay around 2,248 EUR and approximately 4,840 EUR for an option with a car.
Drivers who would like to take advantage of the highest level of comfort will be pleased with the premium option. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total more or less 7,634 EUR for holidayers who are considering vehicle rental and 2,248 EUR for those who do not need a rental vehicle. Travellers who would like to cover the tour in a premium hire car should expect a cost of approximately 3,672 EUR. In the top standard version of the road trip, the gasoline cost will equal as much as 588 EUR. Drivers who are considering top services in all aspects of their itinerary should expect to pay around 1,152 EUR for restaurants and food and roughly 2,222 EUR for overnight stays.
Our tour will also be perfect for all camper enthusiasts, as it can be easily adjusted to their needs. When it comes to this means of transport, it costs roughly 2,700 EUR. If you are wondering about the gasoline expenses for the whole trip, they will amount to roughly 650 EUR. Tourists who are considering camper rental should expect to pay about 660 EUR for accommodation and around 576 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The Road Trip Costs section presents all the above details in a simple manner.
The part of Zimbabwe showed in our itinerary idea is perfect to be visited between May and October. There are plenty of intriguing road adventures that are available on our website if you’d like to see other of our road trip ideas. We hope that the great variety of road trips will surely cater to the needs of the most demanding drivers.

Facts for safer driving in Zimbabwe

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0
max speed urban max speed urban 60 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 120 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 120 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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