Before 2022, I knew very little about Zimbabwe—a landlocked nation in Southern Africa famed for its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. That changed when I received an invitation from the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) to attend the Sanganai-Hlanganani World Travel Expo, an international tourism showcase that brings together the best of Africa’s tourism products and attracts global buyers, exhibitors, and media.

Arrival in Harare

My journey to Zimbabwe began with Kenya Airways, with a brief stopover in Nairobi, one of Africa’s most vibrant tourism hotspots. Nairobi, a city I have explored countless times, always has new adventures to offer. (I will share more about my Nairobi experiences another day.) From Nairobi, I boarded a connecting flight to Harare, enjoying a smooth journey and a perfect landing at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.

Thanks to my official invitation from ZTA, my immigration process was seamless, though regular security checks remained standard for all travelers. I was warmly welcomed at the arrival hall by the organizing team, along with other invited guests from different countries. Together, we were transferred to the Holiday Inn Harare, a centrally located four-star hotel just 30 minutes from the airport.

The hotel, known for its comfort and hospitality, offered clean, well-maintained rooms and excellent facilities, with easy access to shopping malls and city attractions. That evening, I tasted one of Zimbabwe’s traditional dishes—sadza, a staple made from maize meal, served with relish. The hotel served as our overnight base, as the adventure was only beginning.

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Day Two: Chinhoyi Caves

After breakfast the next morning, our group set out under the guidance of Mr. Isaac Mazhetese, an experienced and very knowledgeable tourism officer from ZTA. Our first destination was Chinhoyi Caves Recreational Park, located about 116 kilometers northwest of Harare in Makonde District.

The highlight of the park is the world-renowned Chinhoyi Caves, with its famous “Wonder Hole”—a giant cavern formed by a collapsed roof. Its vertical walls plunge 150 feet down to the Sleeping Pool, a mystical body of crystal-clear, cobalt-blue water. This pool, with its remarkable depth and visibility, attracts scuba divers from around the world.

Visitors to Chinhoyi can enjoy cave exploration, diving, picnics, and even nearby lion park visits. After exploring the caves, we had a delightful lunch at Chinhoyi Caves Motel, before resuming our journey.

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Lake Kariba and Matusadona National Park

Our next leg took us on a three-hour drive (about 250 km) to Lake Kariba, the world’s largest man-made lake by volume. Upon arrival, we checked into the Caribbea Bay Hotel, a Sardinian-style resort overlooking the lake. With its Mediterranean-inspired architecture, serene location, and stunning lakefront sunsets, the resort offered both relaxation and elegance.

Later, we transferred to Sahwira Houseboats, our floating home for the next few days. This spacious houseboat featured master suites, twin cabins, a pool, and tender boats for excursions. Cruising across Lake Kariba was a magical experience—the shimmering water lapping against the shore, wildlife gathering at the banks, and breathtaking sunsets casting fiery hues over the horizon.

After three hours of cruising, we docked at Matusadona National Park, a pristine wilderness along the southern shores of Lake Kariba. The docking process itself was fascinating—anchoring the boat with ropes tied to the land. That evening, we enjoyed dinner and drinks on the houseboat, before retiring for a restful night.

The following days were dedicated to exploring Matusadona National Park, a sanctuary teeming with elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, hippos, and an impressive variety of bird species. Our visits included:

Fothergill Island – A world-class safari destination combining African traditions, history, and unmatched natural beauty.

Changa Safari Camp – Luxury tents overlooking Lake Kariba and the Matusadona mountains, blending comfort with wilderness.

These experiences, enhanced by warm hospitality, offered us deep immersion into Zimbabwe’s natural splendor.

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Gweru and Antelope Park

From Kariba, we embarked on a 7-hour journey (over 450 km) to Gweru, Zimbabwe’s third-largest city. Known historically as “Gwelo,” Gweru is the heart of the Midlands Province and is home to several attractions, including the Military Aircraft Museum, St. Theresa Cathedral, and the famous Antelope Park.

Antelope Park was our primary destination—an award-winning private game reserve spanning 3,000 acres. Upon arrival, we received a warm welcome, followed by dinner and an introduction to our itinerary.

The next day, we engaged in thrilling activities such as game drives, horseback safaris, elephant interactions, bush walks, lion feeding, and bird watching. Each activity offered unforgettable encounters with Zimbabwe’s wildlife, leaving us with cherished memories before our onward journey to Bulawayo.

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Bulawayo and the Sanganai-Hlanganani Expo

A two-hour drive brought us to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city and the cultural heart of Matabeleland. With its blend of Victorian-era architecture, modern infrastructure, and rich history, Bulawayo is a vibrant hub for industry and tourism.

We checked into the Bulawayo Rainbow Hotel, which offered urban comfort and warmth. For three days, the city became the epicenter of African tourism during the Sanganai-Hlanganani World Travel Expo. The event featured business meetings, cultural showcases, and networking opportunities with tourism stakeholders from across the globe.

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Reflections on Zimbabwe

As I departed from Bulawayo at the end of my journey, I carried with me countless memories of adventure, hospitality, and discovery. From the mystical depths of Chinhoyi Caves, the tranquil waters of Lake Kariba, and the wilderness of Matusadona, to the vibrant charm of Gweru and the cultural richness of Bulawayo—Zimbabwe revealed itself as a destination of immense beauty and promise.

What struck me most was not only the country’s natural and cultural wealth but also the warmth of its people, who welcomed us with genuine smiles and open hearts, regardless of nationality.

Indeed, Zimbabwe is a land that captivates, educates, and inspires—a destination that deserves a place on every traveler’s journey through Africa.

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