Earlier this year, the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) ranked Zimbabwe as one of the top 30 countries that have made major efforts to reduce travel restrictions and allow free movement of tourists in the past seven years.
According to the report, Zimbabwe implemented a total of 117 reforms that made it easy for tourists to visit the country during the period.
Zimbabwe’s Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Walter Mzembi has on several occasions called for the lifting of visa requirements.
Such a move, he has argued, would allow the country to achieve its target of attracting five million tourists and achieving a $5 billion income for the industry by the year 2020. This move also allows hoteliers in the country up their game in a bid to attract visitors coming into Zimbabwe.
Food-wise, the cornmeal-based dietary staple of Zimbabwe is also the national dish, called sadza. Sadza to the Zimbabweans is like rice to the Chinese, or pasta to Italians.
Sadza is made from cornmeal or maize, and eaten with relish; this can be any kind of vegetable stew, but nyama, (meat), such as beef or chicken, is common among families who can afford it.
Some of the hotels people visiting the country can get to enjoy this delicious meal of Sadza and other foods prepared in Zimbabwe include:
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is regarded by many as one of the best hotels on the African continent.
It has been in occasions described as where luxury in the bush and an adventurous mindset can peacefully coexist.
The lodge is set on a plateau bordering the Zambezi National Park, 4 km from Victoria Falls and 17 km from artifacts at the Livingstone Museum.
Their rooms are warm, polished and they include balconies, free Wi-Fi, minibars, safes and mosquito nets.
This hotel offers an ideal combination of world-class service and cuisine in an undisturbed bush environment not forgetting the magnificent views and sunsets over the national game park.
The hotel features a variety of facilities and services that are sure to meet the needs of leisure luxury travellers.
Meikles Hotel
The Meikles Hotel is conveniently situated in the central business and shopping districts of Harare, overlooking Africa Unity Square and the colourful flower market.
This luxury hotel has been consistently voted as one of the best hotels in Africa and Zimbabwe’s premier hotel with customers writing positive reviews about the hotel on websites like tripadvisor.com.
Since its inception in 1915, Meikles has been the first choice of international businessmen, dignitaries, diplomats, upmarket tourists and even royalty who expect the highest standards in accommodation, cuisine, security and 21st Century communications facilities.
The hotel has won several awards including the coveted title of Best City Hotel in Zimbabwe for the tenth year in succession and Best Hotel in Africa.
Their quality of service is endorsed not just by membership of The Leading Hotels of the World but also by being the first hotel in Africa to achieve ISO 9002 certification.
Meikles is a landmark in central Harare, its two wings offering guests panoramic views across the city.
A’Zambezi River Lodge
This upscale resort nestles on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River within the periphery of the Zambezi National Park.
The imaginative architecture with its sweeping curve of grass thatch blends well with the lash green lawns.
A’Zambezi is the perfect retreat to relax and unwind in the quiet ambience of the African wild life and nature, whilst enjoying renowned services.
The A’Zambezi is the only hotel with a river frontage and jetty site in Victoria Falls.
The lodge consist of 83 thatched covered rooms, which blend in perfectly with the lush green lawns.
Azambezi river lodge is perfect for those who want to relax and unwind against the backdrop of nature, whilst enjoying world class service.
- Cresta Churchill – Bulawayo
Cresta Churchill is situated 6 km or 10 minutes from the city centre of Bulawayo.
Bulawayo is the second-largest city in Zimbabwe after the capital Harare and it is located in Matabeleland, 439 km southwest of Harare.
The hotel is removed from the hustle and bustle of the capital enough for the guests to enjoy the tranquillity of the hotel.
At Cresta Churchill, there are 50 tastefully decorated air-conditioned en-suite rooms; 23 double rooms, 23 twin rooms and 4 suites, all rooms equipped with tea/coffee-making facilities, telephone, TV, video channel, radio, 24 hour room service as well as a complimentary morning newspaper.
The hotel also offers conference facilities, equipped with the latest in audio-visual necessities.
On-site parking, as well as secretarial services are offered, while the tour desk can help you plan the rest of your journey.
