The Zambezi

Zambia and Zimbabwe are vast countries, friendly and peaceful, and both offer superb wildlife and cultural encounters. Landlocked in south central Africa, they are one of the region’s least travelled yet most mesmerizing wilderness experiences. Get ready to partake in the freedom of walking safaris, unfenced camps, placid rivers and exhilarating river rafting. This is where everything you behold looms large – wildlife, natural wonders and sunsets.

The Zambezi Itinerary

The Land of Plenty

Zambia and Zimbabwe are separated along the entire length of their border by the mighty Zambezi River. As a result, the two countries share an iconic natural wonder of the World, the Victoria falls. “Mosi-o-Tunya” or ‘the smoke that thunders’ – as it’s called locally is one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world. The spray and mist rise to a height of over 400 meters and can be seen from a distance of 50 kilometers. It is a sight that will keep bringing you back.

Zambia is a vast country that remains one of the region’s least explored, yet most rewarding wilderness destinations. Named after the mighty Zambezi river, it is characterised by immensity of space and spectacular sunsets.

Luangwa National Park boasts some of the most remote wilderness areas in Africa, including unique sub species of wildebeest and giraffe that thrive here, besides local birds such as the racket-tailed roller. The park’s successful anti poaching campaigns have helped develop it into a world-renowned wildlife haven. Cradled between the Zambezi in the north and the Limpopo river in the south, Zimbabwe has an incredible wealth of landscapes, wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage going back millenia. It is famous for the remote and beautiful Mana Pools National Park named for the four pools formed by the Zambezi which draw all manner of wildlife, particularly elephants and waterfowl.

The Hwange National Park is the country’s largest game reserve with one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in Africa.

For the latest COVID-related travel restrictions, visit this link:

https://travelbans.org/africa/zimbabwe/

People, food and culture

The main cultural groups in Zimbabwe are the tribes of Shona and the Ndebele. The Shona people were considered to be the founders of the regional empire and the ancient capital city of Zimbabwe. Today, approximately 85 percent of the population identifies itself with this group. Music is highly regarded in Shona culture with rhythms and sounds created on mbira (finger piano), ngoma (drum) and marimba ( wooden xylophone) The Ndebele are renowned for their artistic talent with beautiful wall art adorning their homes. Culturally, the spirit world plays a big role in native Zimbabwean culture, with festivals marking death anniversaries, and reverence towards ancestors. Sadza is a common food item in the households of this region. It is a simple dish made of cornmeal mixed with stew and is often eaten alongside Muboora, a soup preparation of pumpkin leaves that are cooked in a curry. Finally, to beat the heat, don’t forget to try the Maheu, a local energy drink that will instantly revive you!