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Quick Facts
Best time to visit: May–October
Difficulty: 3/5
Road conditions: Good on major roads, variable in remote areas
Visa situation: Visa on arrival available for many nationalities
Why Overland Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe is one of Southern Africa’s classic overlanding destinations.
Combining world-famous wildlife reserves, spectacular landscapes, excellent camping opportunities, and some of Africa’s most impressive historical sites, Zimbabwe is a favorite among self-drive travelers. The country is particularly renowned for Victoria Falls, Mana Pools, Hwange National Park, and exceptional safari experiences.
Why it stands out:
- Victoria Falls
- outstanding wildlife viewing
- excellent wild camping
- remote safari routes
- rich cultural history
- friendly people
- great overlanding infrastructure
- affordable camping
Zimbabwe is often a highlight of Southern African overland journeys.
Main Overlanding Routes
1. Zimbabwe Grand Tour
Route: Harare – Eastern Highlands – Great Zimbabwe – Matobo – Hwange – Victoria Falls – Harare
Distance: approx. 2,500 km
Road type: highways, gravel roads, and national park tracks
Fuel: available in major towns
The ultimate Zimbabwe overland adventure.
Highlights:
- wildlife
- mountains
- waterfalls
- historical sites
- safari parks
Perfect for a 2–4 week journey.
2. Victoria Falls Route
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One of Africa’s greatest travel experiences.
Highlights:
- waterfalls
- adventure activities
- wildlife
- Zambezi River
Major attraction:
- Victoria Falls
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
3. Hwange National Park Route
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Zimbabwe’s premier wildlife destination.
Highlights:
- elephants
- lions
- buffalo
- safari camps
Major attraction:
- Hwange National Park
Home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations.
4. Mana Pools Route
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One of Africa’s finest wilderness areas.
Highlights:
- canoe safaris
- wildlife viewing
- river scenery
- remote camping
Major attraction:
- Mana Pools National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Great Zimbabwe Route
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A journey through African history.
Highlights:
- ancient stone cities
- archaeology
- cultural heritage
- scenic countryside
Major attraction:
- Great Zimbabwe
The largest ancient stone ruins in sub-Saharan Africa.
6. Eastern Highlands Route
Zimbabwe’s mountain region.
Highlights:
- forests
- waterfalls
- hiking
- scenic drives
Major destinations:
- Mutare
- Nyanga National Park
A refreshing contrast to the country’s safari regions.
Borders & Entry Points
Zimbabwe borders:
- South Africa
- Botswana
- Zambia
- Mozambique
South Africa
The most popular entry point for overlanders.
Botswana
Frequently combined with Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta.
Zambia
Connected via Victoria Falls and the Zambezi region.
Vehicle Entry Requirements
Usually required:
- passport
- visa (if applicable)
- vehicle registration
- temporary import permit
- third-party insurance
- driver’s license
Requirements should always be verified before arrival.
Driving Conditions
Driving is generally straightforward.
Easy:
- major highways
- routes between major towns
Moderate:
- national park roads
- gravel roads
Difficult:
- remote park tracks
- rainy-season roads
A 4×4 is recommended for serious safari travel but not essential for most routes.
Fuel & Logistics
Generally good.
Expect:
- fuel stations in major towns
- vehicle workshops in larger cities
- supermarkets in urban centers
- mobile coverage in populated regions
Carry extra supplies when entering remote parks.
Camping & Accommodation
Wild Camping
Limited outside designated areas.
Most travelers use:
- national park campsites
- bush camps
- lodges
- overlander campsites
Campsites
Excellent by African standards.
Popular camping regions include:
- Victoria Falls
- Hwange
- Mana Pools
- Eastern Highlands
- Matobo
Zimbabwe is highly regarded among overland campers.
Motorhome Travel
Excellent.
Roads and campsites are generally suitable for campervans and expedition vehicles.
Safety & Risks
Zimbabwe is generally considered safe for overland travel.
Main concerns:
- wildlife in unfenced campsites
- potholes on secondary roads
- night driving hazards
- seasonal flooding
Avoid driving after dark where possible.
Best Time to Visit
Ideal
May–October
Dry season with excellent wildlife viewing.
Green Season
November–April
Lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
Some roads may become challenging after heavy rain.
Sample 3-Week Itinerary
Days 1–3: Harare
Days 4–6: Nyanga National Park and Eastern Highlands
Days 7–8: Great Zimbabwe
Days 9–11: Matobo National Park
Days 12–15: Hwange National Park
Days 16–18: Victoria Falls
Days 19–21: Mana Pools National Park
FAQ
Is Zimbabwe good for overlanding?
Excellent. It offers world-class wildlife, great camping, and some of Africa’s most iconic attractions.
Need a 4×4?
Not for the main highways, but highly recommended for remote national parks and safari routes.
Can you wild camp?
Most travelers use designated campsites, national park camps, and bush camps.
Good for campervans?
Excellent. Zimbabwe is very popular with Southern African overlanders and campervan travelers.
Best highlight?
Victoria Falls, Mana Pools, Hwange National Park, Great Zimbabwe, and the exceptional wildlife experiences throughout the country.
Related Pages
- Backpacking Zimbabwe
- Southern Africa Overlanding Guide
- Harare
- Mutare
- Victoria Falls
- Hwange National Park
- Mana Pools National Park
- Great Zimbabwe
- Matobo National Park
- Nyanga National Park
- Botswana Overlanding Guide
- Zambia Overlanding Guide
- Mozambique Overlanding Guide
- South Africa Overlanding Guide
- Africa Overland Travel Guide
- Safari Camping Guide
- Zimbabwe 2012
- Campsites in Zimbabwe
- Overlanding in Zimbabwe
- Getting around in Zimbabwe
- Overland Zimbabwe 15.05.2012