Apart from the negative information about Zimbabwe that can be found in the world's media, it is one of the most beautiful countries in southern Africa. With so few tourists in the country, those who come on a trip to Zimbabwe receive royal treatment. Zimbabweans need tourists. As the world's media focuses on Zimbabwe's fall, visitors will see a very different picture of the country.

The absolutely wild nature of Mana Pools National Park, the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, the mountains near Mozambique in the east, fine cuisine in Harrare or bungee jumping in Victoria Falls, the country has something for everyone.

Zimbabwe is a little more expensive than in the past, but its cultural richness and colours remain vivid. Colonialism is etched in the spirit, but local traditions are still visible.

If you are ready to join a group of tourists, or even if you prefer to pay and plan your own trip, a country of charm, political intrigue and beautiful nature awaits you. Zimbabwe also has one of the most pleasant climates in the world... Temperatures are higher from November to April (summer) and slightly lower from May to October (winter). The days are sunny with a spectacular storm in the afternoon or evening. The end of the dry and cool season, between September and October, is the best time to observe the wild nature.

The country is surrounded by South Africa, Botswana to the southwest, Zambia to the northwest and Mozambique to the east and north. The Zambezi River forms the natural border with Zambia and when it is in full flood (between February and April) the huge Victoria Falls form the largest curtain of falling water in the world. Victoria Falls is a major tourist attraction.

Zimbabwe's national parks and private wildlife ranches with their forests of miombo and thorny acacia trees offer great opportunities for wildlife viewing. Animals, including antelopes, zebras and giraffes, roam the plains and you may be lucky enough to see at least some of the Big Five (buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion or rhino) from a vehicle, on foot, on horseback, or even on the back of an elephant.

While you were in Zimbabwe, don't forget to visit Great Zimbabwe - the archaeological remains of an ancient stone South African town in present-day Zimbabwe. It was once the centre of a vast empire known as the Munhumutapa Empire (also called Monomotapa) and covered the modern states of Zimbabwe (which took the name of that city) and Mozambique. The word "Zimbabwe" includes "stone house".

Art and culture in Zimbabwe
The art of Zimbabwe bears the signature of the societies from which it originated. Traces of his origins and culture are evident everywhere. Zimbabwe is a country rich in art and includes pottery, basketry, textiles, jewellery and sculpture. Zimbabwean music is composed of folk and pop styles and is largely based on the Mbira instrument which is also popular in many other African countries.

What to visit in Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls is a popular tourist destination and is located in the west of the country. But be sure to visit Great Zimbabwe, the ancient city that will no doubt enchant you. Then there are the mountains to the east of the country which include the most beautiful views of Zimbabwe. Located on the northern border of the country, Lake Kariba is a popular tourist destination and offers visitors the opportunity to view African wildlife in its almost natural environment. It is also Zimbabwe's largest source of hydroelectric power. And don't even forget Matobo. Located southwest of Bulawayo, in the Matabeleland region, this natural park has exquisite rock formations.

Gastronomic specialities in Zimbabwe
For a taste of Zimbabwean cuisine, ask for "sadza" and "stew". The stew will be familiar, served with a large portion of sadza - a thick dough of corn (much like polenta) that people eat almost every meal. It is inexpensive, quite tasty and very copious. If you really want to impress your African hosts, eat like them: take a little sadza in your hand and make a small ball, then use your thumb to make a small hole and pour a little stew into it. At the end, clap your hands twice when food is served to say "thank you. Believe it or not, they'll be very impressed!