The capital
Harare is where most long haul flights land and where many diaspora families live. It is a leafy, friendly city of jacaranda avenues, galleries, stone sculpture, busy markets and a lively restaurant scene in the northern suburbs. Spend a night or two here to adjust, sort cash and a SIM card, and catch up with family.
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is Zimbabwe's best known destination. Most of the falls' long face is seen from the Zimbabwean side, and the small town around it offers rafting, bridge swings, helicopter flights and sunset cruises on the Zambezi. Three nights is ideal, and it has its own international airport.
Safari country
Hwange National Park is the country's largest park, famous for huge elephant herds and lions, and it is an easy drive from Victoria Falls. Further north, Mana Pools and Lake Kariba offer canoe and houseboat safaris along the Zambezi for those with more time.
History and granite hills
Bulawayo and the Matobo Hills combine Zimbabwe's second city, with its wide colonial streets and fine museums, with a UNESCO listed landscape of balancing rocks, San rock art and rhino tracking on foot. Great Zimbabwe near Masvingo is the largest ancient stone city south of the Sahara and gave the country its name.
The mountains
The Eastern Highlands around Nyanga, Mutare, the Bvumba and Chimanimani are cool, green and made for hiking, trout fishing and long lazy breakfasts with a view.
Putting it together
A classic first trip is Victoria Falls plus Hwange, then Bulawayo, Matobo and Great Zimbabwe by road to Harare. Domestic flights link Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls, and intercity coaches cover the main roads. Use the free trip planner to fit the pieces to your dates, and browse the places to visit list for food, culture and stays in each area.