Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe family holidays

It’s no secret that Zimbabwe has faced its fair share of political turmoil in recent history. However, this once grand dame of the safari scene is fast reclaiming its crown as one of the best safari destinations in Africa. Nothing will prepare you for your first glimpse of the majestic, thundering Victoria Falls. Or seeing Africa through your children’s eyes as they spot a lion stalking its prey on the vast plans of Hwange National Park.

Tracking rhino on a Zimbabwe family holiday, best family holiday destinations abroad

Track rhino on foot with expert rangers on our Zimbabwe family holidays

Zimbabwean guides are renowned for being the best in the world and this is something which you will truly reap the benefits of on our Zimbabwe family holidays. The kids won’t just be kept busy scanning the landscape for the Big Five but they will also learn the difference between a Dung beetle and a giant Longhorn. They’ll learn to identify different animal poo and track spoor across the mopane forest. And they will be mesmerised by the constantly changing landscapes and wildlife on this quintessential African Safari experience.

Family holidays in Zimbabwe - kids kayaking close to elephant in Hwange with a guide

Get active and explore by kayak with your guide, getting close to wildlife

Why take the kids

Our favourite activities on Zimbabwe family holidays include:

  1. Seeing Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke that Thunders) in all its glory in Victoria Falls National Park
  2. Spotting the Big Five on a jeep safari in Hwange National Park
  3. Taking a ride on the Elephant Express railcar
  4. Spotting baboons, elephants, and giraffes on route to a tented camp
  5. Spending time in local communities, learning how children in this part of the world live
  6. Stargazing from your campfire seat whilst toasting marshmallows around the fire
  7. Getting up close and personal with Hwange’s new rhino inhabitants

Zimbabwe family holidays offer a thrilling mix of adventure and spectacular wildlife encounters. Most people start in the town of Victoria Falls, where there are countless ways to view the Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Thrill seekers will enjoy helicopter flights or zip-lining across the dramatic gorges that dominate the landscape.

Families with younger kids can enjoy more sedate activities. Perhaps a sundowner boat cruise or riding bikes over the famous bridge that links the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides of the Zambezi River.

Kids in a hidden hide in Zimbabwe close to elephants - on family holiday

Underground hides at waterholes let all the family get incredibly close to wildlife

The safari opportunities in Zimbabwe are also out of this world. The kids will love the thrill of sleeping in a tented camp listening to the distant roar of lions and the grunting of hippos. They’ll be inspired on a night drive, helping the guide to use the infrared flashlights to pick out pairs of beady eyes glowing through the darkness. And they will be mesmerised to be within touching distance of elephants from an underground hide. For more inspiration check out our Zimbabwe with Kids Photo Guide.

There are many different means of transport on a Zimbabwe family holiday, which helps to keep the kids entertained. You might travel by raft, boat, bike, the Elephant Express train, jeep, small aircraft and more. Zimbabwe also offers some of the most authentic community-based tourism in the region. This gives kids a chance to see the real Africa as they will be immersed in experiences with local people, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Two photos of the Elephant Express in Hwange, take a ride on our Zimbabwe family holidays

The Elephant Express is a delightful way to travel from Victoria Falls into Hwange National Park

Zimbabwe family holiday itineraries

All of our itineraries are bespoke, which means that they are tailor-made for your own specific family, taking into account the ages of your children, your interests, your budget, and so on. However, to give you an idea of what you could do on a family holiday in Zimbabwe, have a look at our sample itinerary, Highlights of Victoria Falls & Hwange Safari.

You can also combine Victoria Falls with an exclusive safari in Botswana, taking in the world-renowned Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park – see our  Highlights of Victoria Falls & Botswana itinerary.

For those with more time to spare, there is also the opportunity to explore Zimbabwe in depth. Perhaps consider adding additional national parks such as Matobo, famous for its rhino population and incredible rock formations. You can also visit Mana Pools to enjoy some of the greatest birding experiences and walking safaris or Lake Kariba, the biggest man-made lake in Africa. The lake is home to waterfront lodges and even houseboats for those who want to enjoy some R&R on an overnight cruise. Check out our Zimbabwe Places to Visit for more.

Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe family holidays, places to visit

Lake Kariba is known for it’s wonderful sunsets and is the perfect place to kick-back and relax

Will all children enjoy a Zimbabwe family safari?

For expert advice on family-friendly safaris in Zimbabwe, and to compare with other safari destinations, check out our family safari holidays section.

Logo-icon

Call us and we will be happy to provide you with a free-of-charge no obligation itinerary and quotation designed for you.

01728 752751

Stubborn Mule cartoon