The new, fourth edition of Bradt’s Zimbabwe remains the most authoritative guide available to one of southern Africa’s premier wildlife and cultural destinations. Zimbabwe-based author, tour guide and archaeologist Paul Hubbard picks up the mantle of this new edition, ensuring that it remains bang up to date and an ideal companion for everyone from wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers to adventure seekers and hikers. All the most recent developments in the rejuvenation of Zimbabwe’s national parks are covered, with in-depth information on facilities, advice on itinerary planning as well as how to select a safari. Also included is a range of clear, comprehensive maps that is unique to this guide, with many not being featured in other publications. With increased business confidence in Zimbabwe, scores of new hotels and guest lodges have opened countrywide. Comprehensive and detailed accommodation listings cover everything from luxury safari camps to budget stays for younger travellers who arrive overland, heading for the fast flowing waters of the Zambezi gorge, plus details of en-route accommodation not found in other guides.Recent years have brought significant change to Zimbabwe, notably with the fall of Robert Mugabe, resulting in increased investment and development in the tourism sector. Bradt’s Zimbabwe is an invaluable aid for independent travellers as well as those on an organised tour. Many activities and off-the-beaten-track attractions countrywide are featured, plus historical and cultural sights such as the World Heritage-listed stone-built cities of Great Zimbabwe and Khami. Iconic Victoria Falls is also covered, and the mighty Zambezi River – perfect for adventure holidays – and the country’s impressive range of birdlife which continues to draw enthusiasts year-round.
Table of Contents
Introduction PART ONE GENERAL INFORMATION Chapter 1 Background Information Geography, Climate, History, Government and politics, People, Language, Religion, Education, CultureChapter 2 Natural History and Conservation Flora, Fauna, National parks Chapter 3 Practical information When to visit, Highlights, Planning your trip, Suggested itineraries, Wildlife activities, Tour operators and agents, Red tape, Tourist information, Maps and GPS, Getting there and away, Health, Safety, What to take, Electricity, Money and budgeting, Getting around, Accommodation, Eating and drinking, Public holidays, Shopping, Arts and entertainment, Media and communications, Cultural etiquette, Travelling positively PART TWO THE GUIDE Chapter 4 Harare History, Getting there, Getting around, Tourist information, Tour operators, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Entertainment and nightlife, Shopping, Other practicalities, What to see and do, Around Harare, North of Harare, Northwest of Harare, Northeast of Harare, Southeast of Harare, Southwest of Harare Chapter 5 Central Zimbabwe Kadoma, Kwekwe, Gweru, Masvingo and Great Zimbabwe Chapter 6 Lake Kariba and the Zambezi Valley Deka to Binga, Chizarira National Park, Lake Kariba, Matusadona National Park, The Middle Zambezi, Northern Zimbabwe Chapter 7 Victoria Falls History, When to visit, Getting there and away, Orientation, Getting around, Tourist information, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Entertainment and nightlife, Shopping, Other practicalities, What to see and do, Activities, Zambezi National Park Chapter 8 Hwange Hwange town, Hwange National Park, Kazuma Pan National Park, Towards Bulawayo Chapter 9 Bulawayo History, Getting there, Getting around, Tourist information, Tour operators, Where to stay, Where to eat and drink, Entertainment and nightlife, Shopping, Other practicalities, What to see and do, Around Bulawayo, Matobo Hills, Plumtree Chapter 10 Southern Zimbabwe Beitbridge, The A6 from Beitbridge to Bulawayo, Lowveld towns, Gonarezhou National Park, Around Gonarezhou National Park Chapter 11 The Eastern Highlands Getting there and around, Southern area, Central area, Northern area, To Nyamapanda Appendix 1 Language Appendix 2 Glossary Appendix 3 Further Information Index