Zimbabwe

There’s no shortage of amazing natural sights in Zimbabwe: from the great elephant sanctuary on the plains of Hwange National Park, to the beautiful shores of Lake Kariba – and not forgetting the mighty Victoria Falls.<br /> <br /> Given its recent political and economic turmoil, Zimbabwe is terribly overlooked as a destination. It's understandable, but such a pity – because it’s a beautiful country with so much to offer.<br /> <br /> The game, for example, is plentiful. And varied – Hwange National Park has a staggering 108 mammal species; more than any other national park in the world (good job there’s a 300-mile network of game viewing roads!). The Big Five are all present, but Hwange is well-known for its huge elephant herds as well as over 400 species of bird. Best of all, it’s just two hours’ drive from Victoria Falls: just as awesome here as it is in Zambia… As is the choice of ways to see it.<br /> <br /> Further upstream on the Zambezi River is another of the country’s attractions – the enormous Lake Kariba. And beyond its dam and into the Lower Zambezi valley is the gorgeous Mana Pools National Park: Zimbabwe’s second World Heritage Site and another brilliant area for wildlife. Walking safaris are popular, but the way to see it is by canoe – expect hippos, crocs, zebras, antelopes and elephants.<br /> <br /> So don’t dismiss Zimbabwe – the Zimbabweans still have their sense of humour and their warmth. And with so few tourists, you’re guaranteed a right royal welcome.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

CAPITAL CITY | Harare
TIME DIFFERENCE | GMT +2 hours
BEST TIME TO VISIT | May-Oct
CURRENCY | US Dollars