Through decades of political instability, Zimbabwe has remained a classic safari destination. Much of the landscape evokes the scenes that you imagine when someone says ‘safari’.

The anchor to any trip is a visit to Victoria Falls where the Zambezi River plunges 350 feet as a powerful mile-wide curtain of water. With easy access to lodges and activities in neighbouring Zambia too, this is a memorable, fun-filled and easy to access stop to make.

Far downstream, the more languid Zambezi moves through the famed Mana Pools National Park where wild nights, walking and especially elephants are the highlights. The resurrection of Matusadona National Park on the shores of Lake Kariba brings one of Zimbabwe’s most famous, wildlife-rich areas back to the fore. Black Rhino and the rest of the Big 5 are resident as you explore on foot and by boat. Dry-season anywhere in Zimbabwe is excellent for seeing animals as they’re drawn to the dwindling water-sources. This is especially evident in Hwange National Park where the elephant herds are dominant in the landscape. Hwange may also present the best opportunity see the emblematic Sable Antelope. In the south, a visit to iron age Great Zimbabwe to delve into a Kingdom from another time. And from here a visit to the wild Gonarezhou and neighbouring Malilangwe Reserve is a must.

Combining elements of Zimbabwe with neighbouring South Africa, Zambia or Botswana is an easy and rewarding way to diversify your safari.