Super Seven
Thetford Game Reserve I certainly wouldn't say that Zimbabwe is the best country in this region of Africa for wildlife, but there's still plenty to see. Thetford Nature Reserve is an easy drive from Harare and this place really is beautiful. It's big, but not too big. There's plenty of animals to see, and you also get a real feel of exclusivity based on the low daily entry level. I saw giraffe, antelope, rhino, buffalo, and many more. A game drive fees go, it's also great value at $55 USD a person (as of 2019).
Victoria Falls Helicopter Ride Directly on the border of both Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls truly is stunning. If you're staying in Harare, there's daily flights to The Falls, so you won't miss out. Often regarded as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and it's easy to see why. The waterfall is a mile wide and absolutely stunning! Hearing the powerful flow of the water is just mesmerizing, and for me, there was no better way to see it than the air. There's many helicopter companies offering tours, but best to book in advance. I can assure you that this is a magnificent experience.
Bungee Jump Victoria Falls
If you're a thrill seeker, why not do the bungee jump located on Victoria Falls Bridge. At 111 meters high, it's by no means the tallest, but the view is great and you still get a decent buzz. It's a busy spot, as the bridge is one of the border points between Zimbabwe and Zambia, so you get jumpers arriving from both sides. The staff are professional and the process is smooth. If you head across the bridge into Zambia, there's also a canyon swing no more than a 15 minute drive.
Harare City Tour As with many African countries, the capital is never the highlight so a deeper dive is needed, but Harare is worth allocating half a day at the beginning or end of your trip. The city is a busy one with plenty of street markets as locals partake in the daily grind of supporting their family. Spots worth checking out are Cathedral of St Mary & All Saints, National Heroes Acre, and Harare Gardens. There's also various spots you can reach that offer nice panoramic views of the city.
Lion & Cheetah Park
So firstly, Zimbabwe are looking to alter the name to Lion Park, as it's been many years since a cheetah has been seen on the premises. This isn't a zoo with caged animals, it's a large open fenced area that will give you the opportunity to see lions up close. You use your own car, but can get out of the vehicle to walk, albeit at your own risk. It's a fantastic place to sit back and watch the lions go about their daily business. If you don't have time for a safari, then make sure you head here as it's only a 30 minute drive from Harare.
White Water Rafting
Whilst you're in the Victoria Falls region, it's definitely worth taking advantage of being able to white water raft down the Zambezi River. The company I used was Shockwave Adventures, and I can highly recommend them. There's different options available depending on how long you want to raft for, and the rapids have various difficulty levels. You're accompanies by an expert at all times who will be responsible for guiding the raft down the river, but you'll still need to help out. The lower the water levels, the bigger the drops, so bare this in mind when planning your visit.
Rhino Tracking at Matobo National Park
In the Buluwayo Region there's a unique wildlife experience on offer at Matobo National Park, which is rhino tracking on foot. This is a chance to leave the game vehicle behind and head into the wild. You'll be accompanied by a park ranger who has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to tracking these beautiful animals. I was fortunate to get within 20 meters of multiple rhinos after only a very short hike. The park itself is scenic, but seems like there's a large number of rhinos here, which will massively improve your chances of sightings.
Accommodation Advice
The hotel I would recommend is "The Kingdom at Victoria Falls". The location to the falls is perfect and this is also at an affordable cost compared to other options in the area. You're close to the centre of town so it's also very easy to arrange tours, pick up points, etc. On this occasion, I found the best price booking direct with The Kingdom Hotel.
Food Factor
In Victoria Falls there's a place called The Three Monkeys. It's a casual restaurant and cocktail bar. Great outdoor seating area, inexpensive, and a fun place to hang out. There's a decent menu with a good selection of international options, but lacks on the local cuisine front. You can view the menu here.
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