Think you know Zimbabwe? Think again.

From the Matobo Hills to the great elephant herds of Hwange, Zimbabwe surprises even seasoned safari-goers. And yet, it’s often misunderstood. So let’s set the record straight, because the Zimbabwe we know is safe, welcoming, full of adventure, and packed with stories worth sharing.

MYTH 1: “Zimbabwe isn’t safe for tourists.”

FACT: Zimbabwe is one of the safest countries in Southern Africa for travelers. International embassies consistently list it as safe to visit. Whether you’re walking with rhinos at Amalinda Lodge, sleeping under the stars in Hwange, or strolling through Victoria Falls town, the warmth and hospitality of the people is what most guests remember most.

MYTH 2: “There’s nothing to see beyond Victoria Falls.”

FACT: Zimbabwe is home to 11 national parks, 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and one of the largest elephant populations in Africa. Don’t stop at the Falls! Continue on to explore the Matobo Hills, a sacred granite wilderness filled with ancient rock art and history. At Khulu Bush Camp, Sable Valley and Ivory Lodge in Hwange, experience big game and wild nights under the stars. And for history lovers, Amalinda Lodge even offers day trips to Great Zimbabwe, the mysterious medieval city that gave the country its name.

MYTH 3: “Zimbabwe has low education and poor English.”

FACT: Zimbabwe boasts one of the highest literacy rates in Africa at 89% (UNESCO). English is widely spoken and used in schools, government, and tourism. You’ll have no trouble communicating and you might just learn a few Shona or Ndebele phrases from our friendly guides.

MYTH 4: “Getting around is difficult.”

FACT: Travel logistics are simpler than ever. Paved roads link major hubs, both Victoria Falls and Bulawayo have international airports with 3 daily flights from Johannesburg, and regular flights from Cape Town, Addis Ababa and Nairobi, and most safari lodges (including ours) offer seamless transfers between properties. Guests often combine Matopos, Hwange, and Vic Falls in one smooth itinerary.

MYTH 5: “It’s all dry bush and dust.”

FACT: Zimbabwe’s landscape is incredibly diverse, ranging from granite outcrops and ancient forests to salt pans and lush green season plains. The Green Season (Nov–March) brings blooming life, fewer crowds, and some of the best birding in the region. Our Stay 3 / Pay 2 offer in Hwange makes it the perfect time to visit.

MYTH 6: “There aren’t any high-end lodges.”

FACT: Zimbabwe has some of the most unique and luxurious camps in Africa. Amalinda Lodge is built into the rocks of Matopos, making it a literal museum of nature and culture. In Hwange, Khulu Bush Camp offers a luxurious tented camp experience on a private concession and intimate wildlife encounters with just a handful of guests at a time.

MYTH 7: “It’s not a healthy place to travel.”

FACT: With basic precautions (like malaria prophylaxis), Zimbabwe is no riskier than other safari countries. All our camps follow international health and hygiene standards, and most travelers enjoy incident-free trips. You’ll likely feel better after a week in the bush than before you came.

MYTH 8: “There’s no internet or infrastructure.”

FACT: Wi-Fi is available at nearly all safari lodges, mobile coverage is strong in urban and park areas, and Zimbabwe’s infrastructure has improved significantly in recent years. You can post that sunrise from the Hwange starbed and video call home from Amalinda.

MYTH 9: “Zimbabweans aren’t welcoming.”

FACT: Hospitality is part of the culture here. Travelers consistently rank Zimbabweans among the friendliest and most helpful people they’ve encountered. Many of our guests return year after year because they felt like a part of our family.