Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe has been named the world’s best country to visit in 2025 by Forbes, a recognition that places the Southern African nation among the top global tourism destinations.
The country’s breathtaking natural beauty, cultural richness, and wildlife diversity are drawing increased attention from international travellers, with travel data showing a surge in global interest. According to flight search platform Kayak, Bulawayo recorded an 80 percent rise in flight searches, while Harare saw a 56 percent increase for the summer season.
To support this growing tourism momentum, the European Union has partnered with Zimbabwe in a USD 42 million initiative to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable tourism. The collaboration focuses on conserving key ecological zones such as the Mid Zambezi and the South East Lowveld, both of which form part of major Transfrontier Conservation Areas shared with neighbouring countries in the Southern African Development Community.
These include the Great Limpopo, Mana Pools Lower Zambezi, Zimbabwe Mozambique Zambia, Kavango Zambezi, and Chimanimani Transfrontier Conservation Areas. Under the leadership of the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, the programme seeks to preserve wildlife habitats and promote eco friendly development that benefits surrounding rural communities.
Through the EU’s NaturAfrica programme, local communities are being empowered to lead conservation efforts and develop alternative livelihoods linked to tourism. The approach not only safeguards the environment but also improves resilience and income opportunities for people living near protected areas.
Zimbabwe’s natural wonders continue to captivate visitors from the thunderous Victoria Falls and the misty Eastern Highlands to the ancient stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe, which tell stories of a civilisation that thrived centuries ago.
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