UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The UNESCO Sites in Zimbabwe have resulted from recognizing 5 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Zimbabwe and 2 locations on the Zimbabwe UNESCO tentative list. These tourist sites in Zimbabwe are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.

In addition to these 5 sites in the Zimbabwe UNESCO list, many other places to travel to Zimbabwe are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.

To help visitors discover these remarkable Zimbabwe tourist attractions, we have assembled an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe UNESCO Map

Click markers to show information and photo.

World Heritage Sites in Zimbabwe Placeholder
World Heritage Sites in Zimbabwe

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Zimbabwe

There are 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Zimbabwe. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.

  • Great Zimbabwe National Monument
  • Khami Ruins National Monument
  • Matobo Hills
  • Mana Pools National Park, Sapi, and Chewore Safari Areas
  • Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Zimbabwe are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.

Great Zimbabwe National Monument

Great Zimbabwe National Monument is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southeastern Zimbabwe. It showcases the remains of an ancient city that flourished between the 11th and 15th centuries. The monument is renowned for its impressive stone structures, including massive walls, towers, and the iconic Great Enclosure. These architectural marvels highlight the advanced engineering and craftsmanship of the Zimbabwean civilization. The site is a testament to the region’s rich history and cultural heritage and a significant archaeological site, attracting visitors from around the world who come to explore and appreciate its unique beauty and historical significance.

Khami Ruins National Monument

Khami Ruins National Monument is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Zimbabwe. The monument showcases the remnants of the ancient Khami city, the capital of the Kingdom of Butua during the 15th and 16th centuries. The ruins feature impressive stone structures, including the Great Enclosure and the Western Enclosure, which reflect the unique architectural style of the Khami civilization. These ruins offer valuable insights into the region’s history, culture, and social organization, making Khami Ruins National Monument a significant archaeological site of great historical importance.

Matobo Hills

Matobo Hills is a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in Zimbabwe. It is a captivating landscape encompassing a vast granite hills and balancing rock formations. These hills hold great cultural and spiritual significance to the local communities and are adorned with ancient rock art that tells stories of the past. The area is home to diverse wildlife, including rhinos, leopards, and numerous bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Matobo Hills offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a truly immersive experience.

Mana Pools National Park, Sapi, and Chewore Safari Areas

Mana Pools National Park, along with the Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas, is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site in Zimbabwe. This pristine wilderness is renowned for its diverse ecosystem and stunning natural beauty. The park is named after the four main pools formed by the meandering Zambezi River, which attract abundant wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, lions, and numerous bird species. Mana Pools National Park is known for its unique walking safaris, allowing visitors to experience an intimate connection with nature and witness incredible wildlife encounters up close. The park’s stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and extraordinary conservation efforts make it an exceptional destination for nature enthusiasts and safari adventurers.

Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls

Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls, located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its awe-inspiring natural beauty. The site is home to the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest waterfalls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke that Thunders.” With its impressive curtain of cascading water and the deafening sound it produces, Victoria Falls is a true marvel of nature. The site also boasts lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can witness breathtaking panoramic views, engage in thrilling activities like bungee jumping and white-water rafting, and immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of this magnificent natural wonder.

Zimbabwe UNESCO tentative list

  1. Ziwa National Monument
  2. Naletale Cluster of Dzimbabwes

Tours in Zimbabwe

Our choices of tours in Zimbabwe are divided into thematic features such as Victoria Falls, Lake Kariba, and Hwange National Park Experience.