Zimbabwe on the Upswing

By: Megan Bryant

Bradt travel guides are publishing their 1st edition Zimbabwe guide this year, while Footprint guides have one coming out in 2011. For the first time in 8+ years, we're seeing reputable publications talking about this country, and I'm excited. 

Zimbabwe is on the upswing from over a decade of really hard times and controversy. Let's hope this year, their 30th anniversary of independence, marks a new era for a more mature Zimbabwe. 

Having just returned from this beloved country that I like to refer to as "Zim," I have a new perspective. I never doubted Zimbabwe was a remarkable wildlife destination, but it's been of moral and economic controversy in recent years. These are my first-hand impressions on how things have changed and how this is a viable destination now more than ever:

How the country has improved:

• Since April 2009, the South African Rand and US Dollar have been used as the standard currencies of exchange, due to unmanageable hyper-inflation of the Zimbabwean dollar. Because of this positive currency change, supermarkets have stocked shelves again, and supplies are easy to obtain and are no longer an issue for hotels and safari camps operating in Zimbabwe.
• The US lifted its travel warning for Zimbabwe in April 2009, in part due to the currency change signaling a return of basic food, fuel and medical supplies.
• The proof is in the pudding: Visitors have increased by an astonishing 300% from last year to the upgraded Ruckomechi Camp in Mana Pools National Park and Little Makalolo Camp in Hwange National Park from last year. Most of this increase comes from North America.
• Accommodations have been completely upgraded (such as the camps mentioned above), while new camps, such as Davison's Camp in Hwange National Park, have been built. The investments are clear signs of stability and a positive shift.
• There is a coalition government in place, and while there is still political uncertainty, the country is extremely safe to visit, especially in remote wilderness areas. The people of Zimbabwe are incredibly warm and kind.

More reasons to visit:

• Unique and abundant game sightings:  The elephants of Mana Pools are the only ones known to stand up on their hind legs to reach up to the trees in the winter months, and Hwange National Park boasts very large herds of game, which is unique in southern Africa.
• It is a more affordable but equally remarkable safari destination that is easily accessible.
• Mana Pools is a brilliant alternative to the sometimes crowded Lower Zambezi National Park (Zambia), while Hwange is an affordable alternative to the Linyanti and Chobe areas of Northern Botswana.
• There are opportunities from classic safari camps to adventure activities, like the Mana Canoe Trail - 3 days of canoeing and camping on the lower Zambezi River - which I've just experienced first-hand in May 2010!!
• Traveling to Zimbabwe greatly benefits the people in need and the wilderness areas at risk, while very little revenue goes to support the current regime. See more information on sustainable projects in Zimbabwe.

NEW Special Packages for Zimbabwe:

I'm pleased to present some new suggested itineraries and special offers that incorporate this truly wonderful safari destination. 

• Classic Zimbabwe Safari — 8 nights from $4250 per person
• Botswana + Zimbabwe Safari — 11 nights from $8170 per person
• Singita Southern Africa Safari, South Africa + Zimbabwe — 8 nights from $8960 per person

See my Zimbabwe photos on Facebook.

For customized itineraries and other travel planning contact me at mbryant@coxandkingsusa.com or ask for Megan at 1-800-999-1758.

Comments

[Lisa K]

When you say "comeback", are they changing the name back to Rhodesia?