Zimbabwe is a country in southern Africa that is known for its rich history, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Despite being a landlocked country, Zimbabwe boasts of a wide range of natural resources that have supported the development of various industries. In the following article, we will discuss the country's tourism industry, which has played a significant role in Zimbabwe's economic growth.

History of Zimbabwe Tourism

Zimbabwe's tourism industry dates back to the colonial era when the country was known as Rhodesia. During this time, the government promoted the industry primarily for the consumption of the colonial settlers. However, with the attainment of independence in 1980, the government declared tourism as a priority industry and began to promote it for foreign visitors.

At first, Zimbabwe relied on its natural beauty, wildlife, and historical sites to attract tourists. The most popular tourist destinations during this time were Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and Great Zimbabwe. However, the civil unrest that characterized Zimbabwe in the early 2000s led to a decline in the industry's fortunes.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Zimbabwe's tourism industry has begun to witness a resurgence. The government has made significant efforts to market the country as a safe and hospitable tourist destination. The introduction of various policies such as the 100% rebate on Value Added Tax (VAT) for foreign tourists has also helped to boost the industry.

The main tourist attractions in Zimbabwe are national parks, wildlife reserves, and game reserves. The country has over 10 national parks, including the famous Hwange National Park, which boasts of a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and over 400 species of birds. Victoria Falls, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is another must-visit destination for tourists in Zimbabwe.

The country also has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. The ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a perfect example of Zimbabwe's cultural heritage. The site was built over a thousand years ago and served as the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe.

Challenges Faced

Despite the efforts to revive the tourism industry, there are several challenges that Zimbabwe still faces. One of the significant challenges is the high cost of travel to the country. As a landlocked country, Zimbabwe relies heavily on its neighbors, South Africa, and Zambia, for transportation. This means that tourists often have to pay high transport costs to reach Zimbabwe, which can deter potential visitors.

Another significant challenge facing Zimbabwe's tourism industry is the lack of adequate infrastructure and facilities. Most of the tourist destinations lack modern amenities such as well-maintained roads, reliable electricity, and water supply.

Conclusion

Zimbabwe's tourism industry has come a long way since the colonial era. The government's efforts to revive the industry have begun to bear fruits, with increased visitor numbers and revenue. However, there is still a lot that needs to be done to make Zimbabwe a top tourist destination. Addressing the challenges facing the industry such as high transport costs and inadequate infrastructure should be a top priority for the government.

In summary, Zimbabwe has a rich tourism industry that is worth exploring. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the wildlife reserves, visitors are bound to be thrilled by the range of experiences that Zimbabwe has to offer.