Zimbabwe offers extraordinary natural wonders including Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, and Hwange National Park with its massive elephant population. Experience ancient ruins at Great Zimbabwe, vibrant cities, and some of Africa's best safari experiences.
Top day trips
Handpicked excursions within easy reach.
Zambezi National Park
Highlights: Game drives with elephant, buffalo, lion, and sable antelope · Zambezi River fishing for tiger fish · Guided walking safaris along the river bank · Stunning Zambezi riverfront scenery
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Highlights: Largest elephant concentration in Africa (120,000+ elephants) · Chobe River sunset boat cruise · Lion, leopard, and wild dog sightings · Hippo and crocodile river viewing from boats
Matobo National Park (Matopos)
Highlights: Cecil Rhodes' grave atop World's View ridge · Largest concentration of San rock art in Africa · White rhino tracking on foot · Extraordinary balancing granite rock formations
Lake Kariba
Highlights: Sunset houseboat cruises on the world's largest man-made lake by volume · Game viewing along shoreline (elephant, hippo, lion) · Kariba Dam wall and visitor center · Tiger fishing — among the best in the world
Great Zimbabwe Ruins
Highlights: Great Enclosure — largest ancient stone structure in sub-Saharan Africa · Hill Complex with panoramic views and royal residence ruins · Valley Ruins and the archaeological museum · UNESCO World Heritage Site dating to 11th century CE
Trips by distance
How far you can go in a day.
Getting there
Transport options for day trips.
- Tours
- Organized day tours from Victoria Falls to Chobe NP and Zambezi NP from $130-180/person including border fees and lunch
- Private
- Private vehicle hire with driver from $80-150/day — best for Great Zimbabwe or Matobo Hills
- Public
- Kombi minibuses and intercity coaches serve most towns. Bulawayo-Matobo by taxi ($20-30 return)
- Rental
- Car rental from $40-80/day at Harare or Victoria Falls airport for self-drive to Domboshawa, Chivero, and similar sites
Day trip tips
Make the most of your excursions.
Start early — heat becomes intense by noon in October and November, and wildlife viewing is best at dawn
Book Chobe day trips from Victoria Falls at least the evening before — good operators fill quickly in peak season
Carry cash USD for park entry fees, guide tips, and roadside purchases
Bring a packed lunch for self-drive day trips — food is scarce at most parks and historical sites