Your Complete Zimbabwe Honeymoon Guide

Zimbabwe is the honeymoon destination you need to know about for incredible safari experiences - but that's not all. We reveal the incredible hotels and natural wonders that make this southern African country a must-visit for a romantic getaway

Elliott Wilmot

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Zimbabwe is an excellent place for safari honeymoons. The wild savannahs are simply breathtaking and, combined with an abundance of wildlife, they're the backdrop to some unforgettable game drives. But as well as safari, there are other experiences that make Zimbabwe a magical honeymoon destination.

A honeymoon boat cruise at sunset — Shutterstock

The ultimate Zimbabwe honeymoon takes in ancient culture, modern city life, romantic river cruising and even one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Add some utterly beautiful hotels and safari lodges, and you have the ingredients for an incredible first holiday as newlyweds.

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Where to Go in Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, a romantic excursion for honeymooners — Shutterstock

Begin your Zimbabwe honeymoon at Victoria Falls - you can spend time exploring this natural wonder, and then it's a relatively easy transfer to some famous national parks for the safari part of your honeymoon.

We particularly recommend Hwange National Park, one of the oldest and largest game reserves in Zimbabwe, where you'll find over 100 types of mammal and 400 bird species. You won't have to contend with huge numbers of visitors here but you will find large numbers of elephants! Other great options for safari honeymoons in Zimbabwe are Mana Pools National Park, where you can view wildlife on vast flood plains, and Malilangwe Reserve, a pristine private reserve known for its breathtaking forests.

When to Go to Zimbabwe

An elephant standing against a burnt orange plain, captured on a Zimbabwe safari — Unsplash

The best time to visit Zimbabwe is during the dry season from May to October. That's when the weather is warm, especially in September and October, and you'll find an abundance of wildlife gathering at the waterholes. November to April is the rainy season, with the heavier downpours from December to February.

Victoria Falls flows year-round but if you wish to see it at its most impressive (admittedly with lots of spray!), you should visit between February to May.

What to See in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe river cruise, Victoria Falls - shot of the rocks on the water — Shutterstock

There are different ways to view Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, all equally enjoyable. You can book a private walking tour, or take to the skies with a helicopter trip. For an adrenalin-rush experience, you can go white water rafting at Victoria Falls, or even try abseiling! For a more tranquil visit, board a Zambezi River cruise and drink champagne while spotting hippos and crocodiles. In the evening, we recommend the Boma Dinner and Drum Show at the Victoria Falls Safari Club Hotel.

Culture-lovers can explore the ancient ruined city of Great Zimbabwe, and marvel at the rock paintings and balancing rocks at UNESCO World Heritage Site Matobo Hills. It's also worth getting to know some of the country's contemporary urban centres, such as Bulawayo.

For a special honeymoon experience, book a 'star bed' at Linkwasha Camp. You sleep on a raised platform under the stars and drift off to sleep amid the sounds of the African bush.

READ MORE: The Ultimate Honeymoon Checklist

Where to Stay in Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls Safari Club

Victoria Falls Safari Club is located on the edge of the Zambezi National Park, just 4km from The Falls, within the grounds of the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. It's a delightful base for exploring both the waterfall at the town of Victoria Falls, as well as enjoying outdoor activities from game drives to watersports. Each bedroom at this luxurious boutique hotel has a balcony that's perfect for enjoying views of the sun setting over the African bush. After some relaxation time at the spectacular two-tiered pool, spend a romantic evening in the award-winning restaurant, which is open on three sides for maximum wildlife-spotting.

Linkwasha Camp

Linkwasha Camp is a beautiful tented safari camp in a private concession in Hwange National Park. Enjoy daily game drives exploring the dramatic landscape while your knowledgeable guide helps you spot an array of animals - the area is home to a rich array of wildlife, including lion, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, wild dog, zebra and impala. Discuss the day's sightings while gathered around the camp fire before tucking into your evening meal, and keep an eye out for the local elephants quenching their thirst at the swimming pool. You'll find eight ensuite tents with contemporary-chic interiors, where you can properly unwind after an adventurous day exploring.

Chikwenya Mana Pools - Wilderness Safaris

Chikwenya Mana Pools is a wildlife enthusiast's dream. Surrounded by lush forest and overlooking a mountain-ringed floodplain, the camp is an excellent base for spotting everything from leopard and cheetah to hippo and warthog, as well as diverse birdlife. There are just seven tented suites - ideal if privacy is your priority - all decorated in pared-back luxe style. Activities include game drives, safari walks and river excursions. When you're not out spotting wildlife, you can simply relax by the pool and enjoy the view.

Singita Pamushana Lodge

Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve is teeming with wildlife. Most notably, it's home to endangered white and black rhino, as well as lion, giraffe, cheetah, crocodile, elephant, wildebeest, zebra and much more. Singita Pamushana Lodge is a sumptuous base for exploring the 130,000 acres of glorious wilderness, with nine elegant suites designed to reflect the area's rich cultural heritage. All have private infinity pools, and there's also a resort pool with magnificent views. There's an emphasis on outdoor living, to make the most of the surroundings, with an al fresco restaurant, and a bar with a fire pit.

How to Get to Zimbabwe

An exotic bird found in Zimbabwe, pink green and yellow — Shutterstock

Few airlines fly directly to Zimbabwe from the UK. In most cases you'll fly to Johannesburg and connect to Harare, Victoria Falls or Bulawayo on the same day. Flight times vary depending on your departure and arrival airport, but expect 12 hours plus - so make sure you pack these long-haul flight essentials.