Bulawayo, Zimbabwe – My adventure in Zimbabwe was nothing short of magical. We began in Harare, the vibrant capital, before flying to Bulawayo, a city rich with history. From there, we set off on a scenic drive to Matobo National Park, where our first destination was the spectacular Amalinda Lodge. Over the course of two nights, we were immersed in the wild beauty of the park.
At Amalinda, we embarked on a walking safari that introduced us not only to the Big Five animals but also to the Big Five plants and trees, deepening our connection to the ecosystem. We hiked to the top of a mountain to visit the tombstone of Cecil John Rhodes, an experience made even more memorable by the breathtaking views and the ancient stone paintings we encountered along the way. The highlight of that day? Watching the sunset while sipping wine and enjoying snacks on the mountaintop, a moment of serenity I will carry with me forever.
Next, we visited the Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a remarkable testament to Zimbabwe’s rich past. This stop provided a glimpse into the history of the region and was a fascinating juxtaposition to the natural beauty surrounding us.
We then journeyed to Great Zimbabwe, located in the Masvingo Province, where we spent one night at the Great Zimbabwe Hotel. Touring the Great Zimbabwe National Monument was awe-inspiring as we explored the ancient ruins and learned about the country’s heritage.
Our next stop was Gonarezhou National Park, where we spent three luxurious nights at Singita Pamushana House. This was a truly 5-star experience, with a dedicated team of staff attending to our every need. The food, expertly prepared by a personal chef, was nothing short of exquisite. We experienced both sunrise and sunset game drives, as well as a unique water safari on their luxurious boat, complete with snacks and drinks. The walking safaris led by experienced guides revealed more ancient stone paintings, and we were fortunate enough to witness a mini buffalo migration. Seeing both black and white rhinos up close was another unforgettable moment, but the highlight had to be the waterhole, where we watched a variety of animals gather to drink.
From Gonarezhou, we drove to the Eastern Highlands, arriving in Mutare. This region, known for its lush landscapes and cool climate, offered a stark contrast to the dry savannah. We visited the Mutare Museum, where we marveled at a collection of vintage luxury cars once used by colonial leaders, a fascinating glimpse into Zimbabwe’s colonial past.
Our next stop was the La Rochelle Nursery and Orchards Centre, where we learned about different types of orchards, their origins, and how they are maintained. This was a refreshing and educational experience in the midst of our wild adventures.
We spent two nights at the iconic Leopard Rock Hotel, one of Zimbabwe’s oldest and most elegant 5-star hotels. Nestled in the hills, the hotel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests, creating a serene and picturesque setting that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Our final adventure took us to the Mutare Skywalk, situated between two mountains with a thrilling height of 320 meters. Walking across the suspension bridge and soaring through the air on a zip line was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, but absolutely worth the adrenaline rush.
Zimbabwe’s blend of natural beauty, rich history, and luxury hospitality made this trip one for the books. From ancient ruins and majestic wildlife to scenic mountain vistas and thrilling adventures, this is a country that has something for every kind of traveler.
