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Great Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe - Things to Do in Great Zimbabwe

Things to Do in Great Zimbabwe

Great Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe - Complete Travel Guide

Great Zimbabwe is home to one of Africa's most significant archaeological sites and UNESCO World Heritage treasure. The ancient stone city, built between the 11th and 15th centuries, represents the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe and showcases the sophisticated engineering and architectural skills of the Shona people. The massive granite walls and intricate stonework stand as testament to a once-powerful civilization that controlled trade routes between the interior and the coast. Today, visitors can explore the remarkable ruins while staying in the nearby town of Masvingo, which serves as the gateway to this historical wonder. The site offers a profound connection to African heritage and provides insight into pre-colonial civilization that thrived long before European contact. The combination of historical significance, stunning architecture, and cultural importance makes Great Zimbabwe an essential destination for understanding Africa's rich past.

Top Things to Do in Great Zimbabwe

Explore the Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Wander through the ancient stone structures including the Great Enclosure, Hill Complex, and Valley Ruins. The massive walls built without mortar showcase incredible engineering skills, while the famous conical tower and intricate passageways reveal the sophistication of medieval African civilization.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are around $15 for international visitors. Visit early morning (8 AM) to avoid crowds and heat. Hire a local guide at the entrance for $10-15 to gain deeper historical insights and cultural context.

Visit the Great Zimbabwe Museum

Discover artifacts, pottery, and gold objects excavated from the ruins that illustrate daily life and trade connections of the ancient kingdom. The museum provides essential context before exploring the actual ruins and houses the famous Zimbabwe Birds soapstone carvings.

Booking Tip: Museum entry is included with ruins ticket. Allow 1-2 hours before visiting the ruins. Photography inside requires an additional permit costing $5. Best visited in combination with the ruins for a complete experience.

Lake Mutirikwi Recreation

Enjoy water sports, fishing, and boating on Zimbabwe's second-largest lake, located near the ruins. The lake offers scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife including hippos and various bird species along its shores.

Booking Tip: Boat rentals available at Kyle View Resort for $30-50 per hour. Best fishing season is April to September. Book accommodation at lakeside lodges in advance during peak season (May-September) for around $80-150 per night.

Traditional Village Cultural Experience

Visit local Shona communities to learn about traditional crafts, pottery making, and cultural practices that connect to the ancient Great Zimbabwe civilization. Experience traditional music, dance, and storytelling while supporting local artisans.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local tour operators for $25-40 per person including transport and village fees. Best experienced in small groups. Purchase authentic crafts directly from artisans to support the community.

Hiking and Nature Walks

Explore the granite hills and kopjes surrounding the ruins, offering panoramic views of the ancient city and surrounding landscape. The area provides excellent opportunities for photography and bird watching in the unique balancing rock formations.

Booking Tip: Free with ruins entrance ticket. Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring sun protection. Early morning walks (7-9 AM) offer the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures. Guide recommended for safety on rocky terrain.

Getting There

Great Zimbabwe is located near Masvingo, approximately 300 kilometers southeast of Harare. The most convenient option is flying into Harare's Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and driving or taking a bus to Masvingo (4-5 hours). Regular intercity buses run from Harare to Masvingo for around $10-15. Car rental is recommended for flexibility, costing $40-60 per day. From Masvingo town, the ruins are just 27 kilometers southeast via a well-maintained road.

Getting Around

The Great Zimbabwe area is best explored by car, as attractions are spread across several kilometers. Rental cars are available in Masvingo town, or you can hire a local taxi for day trips at around $30-40. Within the ruins complex, everything is accessible on foot via well-marked walking trails. Local tour operators offer guided transport packages that include multiple sites. For budget travelers, shared taxis (kombis) connect Masvingo to the ruins entrance, though schedules can be irregular.

Where to Stay

Great Zimbabwe Hotel (near ruins)
Masvingo town center
Lake Mutirikwi lodges
Norma Jeane's Lakeview Resort
Ancient City Lodge
Kyle View Resort

Food & Dining

Dining options are primarily located in Masvingo town, featuring a mix of traditional Zimbabwean cuisine and international dishes. Local restaurants serve sadza (cornmeal staple), grilled meats, and fresh vegetables. The Great Zimbabwe Hotel offers the most upscale dining near the ruins, while town restaurants like Chevron Hotel provide good value meals for $8-15. Try traditional dishes like dovi (peanut butter stew) and fresh fish from Lake Mutirikwi. Most lodges offer full-board packages including authentic local cuisine prepared with regional ingredients.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Zimbabwe

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

The Lookout Cafe - Wild Horizons

4.6 /5
(2048 reviews) 2
bar cafe store

Dusty Road Township Experience

4.6 /5
(313 reviews) 2

KwaTerry The traditional restaurant

4.6 /5
(297 reviews)

Baines Restaurant

4.8 /5
(261 reviews)
bar cafe

MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant

4.6 /5
(252 reviews)

Khaya Nyama Wombles

4.7 /5
(210 reviews)

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Great Zimbabwe is during the dry season from April to September, when temperatures are mild and rainfall minimal. May through August offers the coolest weather, perfect for exploring the ruins and hiking. September and October can be hot but provide excellent wildlife viewing at the lake. Avoid the rainy season (November-March) as paths can become muddy and some areas may be inaccessible. Early morning visits year-round provide the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures for walking.

Insider Tips

Bring a wide-brimmed hat and plenty of water as there's limited shade among the ruins, and the granite stones reflect heat intensely
The Zimbabwe Bird carvings found here inspired the national flag - look for replicas in the museum and originals that remain on-site
Visit during the full moon for a magical evening experience, though arrange special permission and security through the site management in advance

Explore Activities in Great Zimbabwe