Zimbabwe
Our Rating:
Zimbabwe: a land of quiet wonders and bold landscapes
From thundering waterfalls to ancient stone ruins, Zimbabwe is a country defined by contrast and character. It’s home to the legendary Victoria Falls—so powerful you feel it in your chest—but also to calm rivers, painted sunsets, and national parks where wildlife moves to its own rhythm. Days stretch long under the African sky, with time to explore remote highlands or paddle past hippos on the Zambezi. For those seeking a sabbatical filled with space and a sense of true adventure, it quietly delivers.
Best time of year to visit
May to September
City
Victoria Falls: nature turned all the way up
There’s something surreal about standing at the edge of Victoria Falls, watching millions of gallons of water crash into the gorge below. This is one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls, and you feel its presence long before you see it. But the area offers more than just the falls. It’s a hub for adventure, wildlife, and unexpected pockets of calm.
Stay at Batonka Guest Lodge
Set slightly away from the bustle of town, Batonka Guest Lodge is a peaceful, leafy escape with comfortable rooms and a genuinely warm welcome. It’s beautifully run, with thoughtful details throughout, and the kind of poolside you’ll actually want to use. A great base for exploring the falls at your own pace.
Where to eat
The Lookout Café – Even without the adrenaline sports on offer nearby, this café is a highlight. The food is fresh and flavorful, with big salads, wraps, and grilled mains—all served with panoramic views over the Zambezi Gorge. Perfect for a long lunch or just a drink with a breeze.
The Eatery – Casual but beautifully done, The Eatery is great for a relaxed dinner after a day outdoors. Think grilled vegetables, local ingredients, and solid vegetarian options alongside meat dishes. Warm lighting and an open-air setup give it just the right atmosphere.
What to do
Get soaked (in the best way) – start with the obvious: a walk through the Victoria Falls National Park. The trails lead you past multiple viewpoints, each more jaw-dropping than the last. Expect mist, rainbows, and the kind of views that make you put your phone down for once.
Cruise the Zambezi – in the late afternoon, hop on a sunset cruise departing from the Palm River Hotel (book here). You’ll glide along the upper Zambezi, past elephants wading at the banks and hippos surfacing with snorts and splashes. Drinks and snacks are served on board, but the real star is the sky—lit up in oranges and pinks as the sun sinks low.
Take a bike tour from Lookout Café – if you’d rather stay on land, opt for a guided bike tour starting from the Lookout Café. The ride takes you along the edge of the Batoka Gorge and through the town’s quieter paths, offering a different perspective—and plenty of breeze. The café itself is worth a visit even if you skip the tour: perched dramatically above the gorge, it’s one of the best spots in town for lunch with a view.
