Zimbabwe Facts - Country Fun Facts Explorer

Zimbabwe

🕰️ Current Time

Harare

Sunday, July 27, 2025

09:50:55 PM

UTC+02:00

🗺️ Capital City: Harare

Harare is the capital city of Zimbabwe

Coordinates: -17.8292°, 31.0522°

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🎉 Fun Facts

Zimbabwe is home to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World: Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, "The Smoke That Thunders."
Lake Kariba, the world's largest artificial lake and reservoir by volume, is located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and is home to the legendary river spirit, Nyaminyami.
Zimbabwe has 16 official languages: English, Shona, Ndebele, Chewa, Chibarwe, Kalanga, Koisan, Nambya, Ndau, Shangani, Sign Language, Sotho, Tonga, Tswana, Venda, and Xhosa.
The Great Zimbabwe ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a remarkable ancient city after which the country is named, its intricate stone structures built without mortar.
Zimbabwe boasts one of the highest literacy rates in Africa, demonstrating a strong emphasis on education.

📚 Top Books

Nervous Conditions

Fiction

by Tsitsi Dangarembga

Published: 1988

Set in colonial Rhodesia, it follows Tambudzai, a young girl who strives for an education and a better life, challenging traditional gender roles and colonial oppression. The novel explores themes of race, gender, and identity in a changing society.

The Book of Not

Fiction

by Tsitsi Dangarembga

Published: 2006

A sequel to Nervous Conditions, it continues Tambudzai's story as she navigates the complexities of post-colonial Zimbabwe and grapples with identity, loss, and societal expectations. It explores the disillusionment and challenges of independence.

When Rain Comes

Historical Fiction

by Stanlake Samkange

Published: 1966

This novel portrays the conflict between traditional African customs and the encroaching Western culture during the early colonial period in Zimbabwe. The story revolves around the consequences of defying ancestral traditions and the struggle for cultural preservation.

Harvest of Thorns

Fiction

by Shimmer Chinodya

Published: 1989

This coming-of-age story explores the experiences of Benjamin Tichafa during the Zimbabwean liberation war and its aftermath, portraying the challenges of reconciliation and the complexities of national identity. He reflects on the trauma and sacrifices of war and struggles to find his place in a new Zimbabwe.

Running with the Hyenas

Fiction

by Bayo Ojikutu

Published: 2012

Set against the backdrop of political turmoil in Zimbabwe, this novel tells the story of a young boy forced to survive on the streets, highlighting themes of resilience, survival, and the impact of political violence on ordinary people. It portrays the human cost of corruption and social breakdown.

🏖️ Top Travel Destinations

Victoria Falls

📍 Victoria Falls

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is a breathtaking waterfall on the Zambezi River, known for its immense size and the "Mosi-oa-Tunya" (The Smoke That Thunders) spray. Visitors can enjoy activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and scenic helicopter flights.

Hwange National Park

📍 Hwange

Zimbabwe's largest national park, Hwange, offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for elephants, lions, and wild dogs. Diverse landscapes and a network of waterholes make it a prime safari destination.

Great Zimbabwe Ruins

📍 Masvingo

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Great Zimbabwe is an ancient city showcasing impressive stone architecture and the legacy of the Shona civilization. Explore the towering walls and learn about the history and culture of this significant site.

Mana Pools National Park

📍 Mana Pools

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mana Pools is renowned for its raw and unspoiled wilderness along the Zambezi River. Canoeing safaris, walking safaris, and exceptional wildlife encounters, including large populations of elephants and hippos, are key attractions.

Matobo National Park

📍 Bulawayo

Famous for its balancing rock formations and ancient San rock art, Matobo National Park offers stunning landscapes and a rich cultural history. It is also the burial site of Cecil Rhodes.

Lake Kariba

📍 Kariba

One of the largest man-made lakes in the world, Lake Kariba provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing along its shores. Houseboat holidays and stunning sunsets are popular experiences.

Gonarezhou National Park

📍 Chipinge

Part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, Gonarezhou National Park offers a remote and wild safari experience. Explore the rugged landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the iconic Chilojo Cliffs.

Bulawayo Railway Museum

📍 Bulawayo

A must-visit for railway enthusiasts, the Bulawayo Railway Museum showcases a collection of locomotives, carriages, and railway memorabilia from Zimbabwe's rich railway history. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the country's past.

Chinhoyi Caves

📍 Chinhoyi

A series of caves with a stunningly blue pool of water, the Chinhoyi Caves offer a unique geological experience. Explore the intricate cave systems and admire the vibrant colours of the Sleeping Pool.

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Eastern Highlands

📍 Nyanga

The Eastern Highlands offer stunning mountain scenery, lush forests, and tea plantations. Activities include hiking, bird watching, and exploring charming towns like Nyanga and Mutare.