Zimbabwe is a landlocked Southern African country of great diversity, cradled between two of the continent’s most iconic rivers: the mighty Zambezi in the north and the historic Limpopo to the south. Sharing borders with South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, and Botswana, its strategic location has shaped a rich history and culture. The capital and largest city is Harare, and while the country has 16 official languages, English, Shona, and Ndebele are the most commonly spoken.
The very name “Zimbabwe” is steeped in history and culture. It is derived from a Shona term for Great Zimbabwe, an ancient city whose magnificent stone ruins stand near Masvingo in the southeastern part of the country. These ruins, now a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a testament to the ingenuity of a past civilization. While two main theories exist regarding the name’s precise origin, both celebrate the country’s architectural heritage. One theory suggests the name comes from Dzimba-dza-mabwe, a Karanga Shona phrase meaning “large houses of stone.” The other, favored by the local Karanga people, proposes a contracted form of dzimba-hwe, which translates to “venerated houses” in the Zezuru dialect, often referring to the homes or graves of chiefs.
SIZE
390,757 km² (150,871 sq mi)
POPULATION
Approx 17 million people
Much of Zimbabwe is elevated land, dominated by a central plateau, known as the Highveld, that stretches from the southwest to the north. With altitudes between 1,000m and 1,600m, this high-lying region provides a temperate climate and a fertile agricultural heartland. To the country’s extreme east lies a stunning mountainous region known as the Eastern Highlands. This area is celebrated for its great natural beauty and cooler climate, with popular tourist destinations like Nyanga, Vumba, and Chimanimani. It is here that you will find Mount Nyangani, the country’s highest point at 2,592m, and the unique Chirinda Forest at Mount Selinda.
In stark contrast, approximately 20% of the country consists of low-lying areas, or Lowveld, which sit below 900m. This includes the famed Zambezi Valley in the north. The country’s extreme northwest is home to one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders: Victoria Falls. This colossal waterfall, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke that Thunders”), is a breathtaking testament to the power and beauty of the Zambezi River.
Zimbabwe’s climate is predominantly tropical, but it is defined by significant regional variations. The southern low-lying areas are known for their heat and aridity, while the central plateau can experience frost during the winter months. The Zambezi Valley is famed for its extreme heat, while the Eastern Highlands are blessed with cooler temperatures and the highest rainfall in the country, fostering lush green landscapes. The country’s rainy season typically runs from mid-November to March, though it is often punctuated by recurrent droughts.
Since 2009, Zimbabwe has operated on a multi-currency system, with the United States Dollar being the most widely used and accepted currency. Most other major currencies are also readily accepted within tourist areas, ensuring a seamless experience for visitors.
