Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe

Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe Anyone who’s been to Zimbabwe recognises it as one of the most magnificent countries of Southern Africa. It is unique in culture and beauty and it is home to a plethora of African wildlife and the largest waterfall on the continent. There are so many things to see and do in Zimbabwe that it is the best choice for many safari goers. For first-time visitors to Africa, to those returning for the 20th time, Zimbabwe has lots to offer.
Zimbabwe sets the stage for some of the world’s most fantastic array of African wildlife. Very few other countries offer so many opportunities to see Africa’s exclusive wildlife species, including the “Big 5” (Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Leopard and Buffalo).  Zimbabwe also has an incredible concentration of birds, and some very unusual species of animals can also be found, such as the king cheetah in Gonarezhou, and the Samango monkey in the Eastern Highlands. And because Zimbabwe is still considered a remote destination, the chance of experiencing a really amazing wildlife encounter is excellent.
Zimbabwe, and in particular, Victoria Falls, offers an incredible array of fun activities, and there truly is something for everyone. For wildlife enthusiasts who want to get up-close-and-personal with the animals, there are Elephant-back safaris and walking with lions. For thrill-seekers and dare-devils looking for a challenge, try the bungee jump, white water rafting, or abseiling. For those who want to experience the great African outdoors, there are cruises and canoe trips, as well as the fantastic helicopter flights over the falls. Other options include touring the falls on foot with a guided tour.  Leisurely strolls, cultural visits and open-market shopping for fabric, curious, and other African specialties are all possibilities in Victoria Falls – an African destination unlike any other.
Because of the political and economical climate in recent years, Zimbabwe has not been a major tourist destination for quite some time. People have visited in limited numbers since the turn of this century, and only very recently, tourists are again starting to re-discover Zimbabwe, and finding it to be untouched, pristine, and offering a kind of exclusivity that is hard to find in the rest of Africa. The national parks have remained intact and remote, which is particularly heartening, given the widespread destruction of natural environments in other parts of the world. Travellers can also expect to experience more intimate encounters with wildlife simply because conditions in Zimbabwe’s environment have remained wild and unaffected by development.
Due to unprecedented demand, Zimbabwe is seeing some really exciting developments in tourist lodgings, and there is something available to suit every budget. High-end hotels, tented camps, bed-and-breakfasts and self-catering campsites are all on offer throughout Zimbabwe. Barefoot- luxury options are also being developed, which offer an exclusive experience of Africa at affordable rates.   African Luxury Hideaways have announced an addition of two new accommodations establishments in Zimbabwe: Elephants Eye, near Hwange National Park, and Cliff Top Lodge in Victoria Falls. Both lodges will offer true barefoot-luxury accommodation, built with eco-friendly materials, and maintained with sustainable resources, including solar power, locally made furnishings, eco-pools, grey-water systems, and using locally harvested organic food sources and locally-trained staff.