Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe, situated on a high plateau in Southern Africa, between the Limpopo and Zambezi rivers, boasts an astounding variety of natural beauty and spectacular scenery. The landlocked country is surrounded by Zambia, South Africa, Mozambique and Botswana. Although located in the tropics, temperate weather conditions prevail all year, as the climate is moderated by altitude and the inland position of the country.

Remains of Stone Age cultures dating back 500 000 years have been found in Zimbabwe. Evidence of a large and complex African civilization and their pastoral lifestyle can be seen in the ruins of Great Zimbabwe. The first contact with Europeans was with the Portuguese at the end of the 15th century, followed by the British. Zimbabwe gained its independence in 1980.

Zimbabwe boasts many spectacular natural sites. The Zambezi has an exceptional variety of spectacular scenery as well as one of the world's natural wonders: the Victoria Falls. In the unspoiled wilderness of the Zambezi Valley, on the shores of Lake Kariba and the grassy plains of Hwange National Park wildlife abounds. Mana Pools, a World Heritage site, is renowned for wildlife, fishing and canoe safaris. Hwange, the largest national park, is one of the last greatest elephant sanctuaries in Africa. Lake Kariba, a beautiful stretch of water studded with islands and surrounded by mountains and forests, is known for its wildlife, fishing and houseboats. The Eastern Highlands is one of the four most magnificent physiographic divisions on the African continent offering wonderful scenery, hiking and fishing. This area is said to be filled with the voices of the ancestors - the waters flowing within it contain healing powers, which soothe the body.

Of historical relevance, The Matobo National Park with its spectacular granite rock formations and wealth of ancient rock paintings, is home to Cecil John Rhodes’ tomb and The Great Zimbabwe Ruins, a World Heritage Site, are some of the most extraordinary manmade ancient remains in Africa.