Zimbabwe is renowned for its breath-taking weather, diverse natural landscapes, and as the home of one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls. Tourists from across the globe are drawn to the country’s charming attractions, which include stunning landscapes, an array of bird and tree species, as well as remarkable flora and fauna. As Zimbabwe gradually reopens its doors to international tourism, a surge of private sector investments in safaris, camps, and various entertainment escapades has enhanced the country’s tourism offerings. Both locals and tourists are now able to enjoy these experiences, highlighting Zimbabwe as a premier travel destination.
One of Zimbabwe’s greatest assets is its people. Zimbabweans are celebrated for their warm hospitality, a quality that often leaves a lasting impression on foreign visitors. The country’s rich traditions and vibrant way of life are central to the tourist experience, as many travellers come seeking an authentic cultural connection. As the tourism industry begins to regain momentum, there is a clear opportunity for the Ministry of Tourism to leverage this growing interest and position Zimbabwe as a must-visit destination on the global stage.
Despite its economic challenges, Zimbabwe remains a peaceful and stable country, boasting some of the lowest crime rates in the region. Unlike many other places, stories of violence and guns on the streets are virtually unheard of in this majestic country. This climate of safety further bolsters its appeal as a prime location for both adventure and relaxation.
One of the key events that highlight Zimbabwe’s potential as a global tourism hub is the Sanganai/Hlanganani, World Tourism Expo, which kicked off on the 12th of September and will run until the 14th of September. Over the years, Sanganai/Hlanganani has grown in prominence, attracting top international brands and showcasing the finest tourism products Africa has to offer. The event draws global visitors and media, enhancing Zimbabwe’s international visibility. This year, the expo takes place in Bulawayo, focusing on attracting foreign investment and showcasing the country’s vast untapped potential.
Coinciding with this event is the much-anticipated Amazon Prime finale of The Grand Tour, which was filmed in Zimbabwe. The episode, airing on the 13th of September, is expected to bring significant attention to Zimbabwe’s scenic landscapes and adventurous offerings. Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond, known for their adventurous escapades, chose Zimbabwe for their final journey, traveling through the country in classic cars. During the premiere in London, Richard Hammond revealed his emotional attachment to the trip, recounting a harrowing moment when his boat, carrying his car, nearly sank on Lake Kariba. Jeremy Clarkson’s remark, “Zimbabwe, we really saved the best till last,” perfectly encapsulates the beauty and grandeur of the country.
The final episode, which sees the trio navigate the expansive and treacherous Lake Kariba, the world’s largest man-made lake, adds to the allure of Zimbabwe as a destination filled with adventure and natural wonders. The broadcast of this iconic programme is expected to leave a lasting impression on viewers worldwide, potentially sparking an influx of tourism in the years to come.
With this unprecedented global exposure, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority now has a golden opportunity to capitalize on the momentum created by The Grand Tour. By promoting Zimbabwe as a top-tier tourist destination, the country can further stabilize and grow its tourism sector, attracting a global audience eager to experience its rich offerings.
Speaking at the World Tourism Expo launch, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Barbara Rwodzi, expressed optimism about the country’s tourism prospects. She emphasized that this year’s expo aims to bring together industry leaders, experts, and professionals from across the globe to engage in meaningful discussions, share innovative ideas, and explore the latest trends in tourism. “This year’s event promises to be bigger and better, with elaborate sustainable tourism initiatives and gastronomy tourism showcases,” said Rwodzi. She also introduced the new Tourism Innovation Hubs, which will provide a platform for young academics to present their innovative ideas to a global audience.
With global attention now focused on Zimbabwe, the future of the country’s tourism industry looks brighter than ever. The combination of its natural beauty, cultural richness, and the unique experiences it offers make Zimbabwe a destination with unlimited potential.
