Zimbabwe has been named the world’s best country to visit in 2025 by Forbes, a distinction that spotlights the Southern African nation’s growing appeal as a global tourism destination, anchored by iconic attractions such as the mighty Victoria Falls.
The recognition comes as Zimbabwe experiences rising international interest, driven by its dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife. Travel data reflects this momentum: flight search platform Kayak reports an 80 percent increase in searches for Bulawayo and a 56 percent rise for Harare during the summer travel season.
To sustain this growth while protecting fragile ecosystems, the European Union has partnered with Zimbabwe in a USD 42 million programme aimed at conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable tourism. The initiative focuses on key ecological zones, including the Mid-Zambezi Valley and the South East Lowveld, which form part of major Transfrontier Conservation Areas shared with neighbouring countries within the Southern African Development Community.
These conservation landscapes include the Great Limpopo, Mana Pools–Lower Zambezi, Zimbabwe–Mozambique–Zambia, Kavango–Zambezi, and Chimanimani Transfrontier Conservation Areas. Led by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, the programme prioritises habitat preservation while advancing eco-friendly development that delivers tangible benefits to surrounding rural communities.
Under the EU’s NaturAfrica programme, local communities are being empowered to lead conservation efforts and develop alternative, tourism-linked livelihoods. This community-centred approach aims to strengthen environmental protection while improving economic resilience and income opportunities for people living near protected areas.
From the thunderous cascades of Victoria Falls and the mist-covered Eastern Highlands to the ancient stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe, the country’s natural and historical treasures continue to captivate visitors, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s position as one of Africa’s most compelling travel destinations.
