Exploring Zimbabwe’s Unesco World Heritage Sites

Tourism

Charles Mavhunga

ZIMBABWE is home to a treasure trove of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites that exhibit the rich cultural identity and breathtaking natural wonders of the nation.

These sites play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s tourism identity and attracting visitors from around the world.

Here are the places:

Great Zimbabwe National Monument

The Great Zimbabwe National Monument, founded in the late 19th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts an estimated 200 000 visitors per year during peak times.

This archaeological site is one of the most iconic in Zimbabwe, showcasing the remains of an ancient city that was once the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe.

The place includes impressive stone structures, such as the Great Enclosure and the Hill Complex, which provide insights into the country’s rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the intricate stone walls, passageways and platforms that were built without mortar, marvelling at the advanced architectural techniques employed by the ancient inhabitants.

 Khami Ruins National Monument

The Khami Ruins National Monument was founded in 1969 and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It attracts an estimated 50 000 visitors per year during peak periods.

The monument, which is located near Bulawayo, is known for its impressive stone walls, terraces and other structures that demonstrate the advanced architectural and engineering skills of the ancient civilisation in the area. Visitors can explore the intricate stone structures, including the royal enclosure. The site also features platforms, passageways and other architectural elements that provide insights into the daily life and social organisation of the people who lived there.

In addition to the historical and archaeological significance of the site, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, with views of the Matobo Hills and nearby rivers.

The Khami Ruins National Monument offers a unique opportunity to learn about Zimbabwe’s rich history and culture, while exploring a fascinating archaeological site.

Matobo Hills

The Matobo Hills draw around 100 000 visitors annually to immerse themselves in their captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

From ancient rock art sites depicting the lives of the San people to the awe-inspiring granite rock formations shaped by millions of years of erosion and weathering, the area offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to marvel at nature’s exquisite creations. The diverse plants and animal species, including rare wildlife like leopards and rhinos, add to the allure of the place. At the same time, the cultural and spiritual significance of the region, with its sacred sites and burial grounds, provides a deeper understanding of the indigenous traditions.

For travellers seeking an authentic African experience that combines natural beauty, cultural history and wildlife encounters, the Matobo Hills are a must-visit destination.

Mana Pools National Park, Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas

The Mana Pools National Park, Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas, collectively designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1984, welcome around 50 000 visitors annually. These people will be seeking to immerse themselves in the breathtaking wildlife and landscapes of the region.

The Mana Pools National Park stands out in the area for its stunning views along the Zambezi River and the unparalleled safari adventures it offers, allowing guests to observe a rich variety of animals like elephants, lions, hippos and diverse bird species in their natural habitats.

Additionally, the park’s distinctive Mana Pools floodplains attract numerous animal herds during the dry season. Adjacent to this renowned park, the Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas provide an expansive wilderness sanctuary where visitors can enjoy more secluded and exclusive safari experiences, including walking safaris, game drives and river excursions to explore the diverse ecosystem and encounter a wide array of wildlife species.

In essence, the areas present an unparalleled opportunity for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers to connect with Africa’s raw beauty and witness some of the continent’s most iconic animals thriving in their natural environment.

Mosi-oa-Tunya/Shungu-Nyamutitima/Victoria Falls

This is a remarkable natural wonder spanning Zambia and Zimbabwe. Drawing over 1 million tourists annually from countries like South Africa, the United States and the United Kingdom, this iconic site mesmerises visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty and power as vast volumes of water cascade over cliffs.

David Livingstone named the site after Queen Victoria, which was a historical misnomer. Efforts should be made to use the indigenous name, Mosi-oa-Tunya/Shungu-Nyamutitima, which means “The Smoke That Thunders” in the local Lozi language.

Recognising and promoting this authentic name not only preserves our cultural heritage but also enriches visitors’ understanding of the falls’ profound significance to the region’s people. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Zimbabwe contribute to the nation’s tourism identity and serve as important cultural and natural treasures that deserve to be protected and preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Charles Mavhunga co-authored textbooks in business enterprising skills and is currently studying for a PhD in Management at Bindura University. He can be contacted at: [email protected], Cell:0772989816.