Zim scoops Destination of the Year Award
Herald Reporter
ZIMBABWE yesterday scooped the Destination of the Year — Natural Wonders Award at the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association Awards held on the sidelines of ITB Berlin 2026 in Germany. This came as the country’s Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi was named Tourism Minister of the Year — Africa. Zimbabwe is accelerating its tourism growth trajectory under President Mnangagwa, whose development thrust has positioned tourism as a key pillar in achieving Vision 2030 and transforming the country into an upper-middle-income economy. Zimbabwe was honoured for its exceptional natural assets, conservation leadership and authentic visitor experiences. Anchored by the majestic Victoria Falls, the world’s largest curtain of falling water stretching 1 708 metres wide and plunging 108 metres into the Zambezi Gorge, the country continues to captivate global travellers seeking raw, untamed beauty. Nearly 30 percent of Zimbabwe’s landmass is protected wilderness, offering pristine ecosystems and unmatched safari experiences. Among its flagship natural attractions are Hwange National Park, renowned for its vast elephant herds and Big Five encounters; Mana Pools National Park, famous for exclusive walking and canoe safaris along the Zambezi River; Gonarezhou National Park, home to dramatic red sandstone cliffs and large elephant populations; Matobo Hills, celebrated for balancing granite rock formations and rich cultural heritage; the mist-covered Eastern Highlands; and the striking deep-blue limestone system of Chinhoyi Caves, ideal for diving and exploration. Complementing its natural beauty are the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site symbolising the country’s rich civilisation history. Zimbabwe’s rigorous and highly respected professional safari guiding standards considered among the most demanding in Africa, further elevate the visitor experience, ensuring safety, exclusivity and immersive storytelling. ReadMore