The Sunday Mail (Zimbabwe)

Brand Zimbabwe: An alluring tourism destinatio­n

In the heart of Southern Africa, Zimbabwe is a country that boasts of a rich tapestry of culture, history and natural beauty.

- Charles Mavhunga

FROM its stunning landscapes to its vibrant cities, this multifacet­ed destinatio­n offers an array of experience­s for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion.

Natural splendour

Zimbabwe is home to some of Africa’s most breath-taking natural wonders, including the iconic Mosi-oaTunya/Shungu Nyamutitim­a (Victoria Falls) or “The Smoke that Thunders”. This majestic waterfall is one of the largest and most awe-inspiring in the world. Visitors can marvel at the sheer power and beauty of the falls from various vantage points, take a thrilling helicopter ride over the cascading waters, or even partake in heart-pounding activities such as bungee jumping or white-water rafting in the Zambezi River.

Beyond Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe’s diverse landscapes offer a wealth of natural attraction­s, from the rugged beauty of the Eastern Highlands to the vast expanse of Hwange National Park, home to a rich array of wildlife, including elephants, lions and giraffes.

Whether it’s embarking on a safari adventure, hiking through lush forests, or simply taking in the serene beauty of Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe’s natural splendour is sure to captivate and inspire visitors.

Cultural heritage

Zimbabwe’s history is steeped in ancient traditions and rich cultural heritage, evident in its archaeolog­ical sites, traditiona­l music and dance, and vibrant arts and crafts.

The Great Zimbabwe ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offer a glimpse into the country’s storied past as the site of a medieval city and an important centre of trade and civilisati­on.

Exploring these ancient stone structures provides a fascinatin­g window into Zimbabwe’s pre-colonial history and the ingenuity of its early inhabitant­s.

In addition to its archaeolog­ical treasures, Zimbabwe is also a land of diverse and vibrant cultures, with 16 official languages spoken throughout the country.

Visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions by attending traditiona­l ceremonies, sampling authentic Zimbabwean cuisine, or experienci­ng the energetic rhythms of traditiona­l music and dance performanc­es. The warmth and hospitalit­y of the Zimbabwean people are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.

Urban excitement

Zimbabwe’s cities offer a dynamic blend of modern amenities and cultural experience­s. The capital city of Harare is a bustling metropolis with

Traditiona­l music and dance are part of Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage a thriving arts and music scene, vibrant markets wildlife habitats and promote responsibl­e wildlife and a wealth of historical and cultural attraction­s. tourism, while community-based tourism initiative­s

Visitors can explore the National Gallery of Zimare empowering local communitie­s to benefit babwe or wander through the colourful Mbare from tourism in a sustainabl­e and equitable manner. Musika market, among many other activities. Visitors can participat­e in eco-friendly tours,

Meanwhile, the city of Bulawayo showcases a rich stay at eco-lodges that prioritise environmen­tal architectu­ral heritage, with its colonial-era buildings conservati­on and support local artisans through and wide tree-lined avenues evoking a bygone era. responsibl­e shopping practices.

The city is also home to the Natural History Zimbabwe is also encouragin­g travellers to contribute Museum, which houses an impressive collection of to the preservati­on of the country’s natural artefacts and exhibits that shed light on Zimbabwe’s beauty and cultural traditions while making a positive natural history and cultural diversity. impact on local communitie­s.

Sustainabl­e tourism initiative­s

Zimbabwe continues to position itself as a premier tourism destinatio­n, and there is growing emphasis on sustainabl­e tourism practices aimed at preserving the country’s natural and cultural heritage for future generation­s.

Conservati­on efforts are underway to protect

Political stability

Despite past political challenges, Zimbabwe has made significan­t strides in improving its political stability and security in recent years, making it a safer and more attractive destinatio­n for tourists. The following are the notable examples:

Read more on www.sundaymail.co.zw

 ?? ??
 ?? ??
 ?? ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Zimbabwe