Online Reporter
Herald Reporters
AS the festive season hits top gear, the country’s tourism sector is poised for increased business, bolstered by enhanced accessibility by air and roads.
This comes as Forbes magazine recognised Zimbabwe as a top destination for 2025, naming it the “world’s best country to visit”, on the basis of its stunning landscapes such as the mighty Victoria Falls, rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality.
The country’s growing recognition is complemented by a boost in flight connections, including the latest addition of Air Tanzania, to the list of international carriers serving Zimbabwe.
Air Tanzania’s inaugural flight from Dar es Salaam arrived at Victoria Falls International Airport on Thursday, marking the official launch of the airline’s new triangular route connecting Victoria Falls, Dar es Salaam and Cape Town, in a move celebrated as a milestone for regional tourism and economic integration.
With optimism and activity surging across the country, hoteliers and tourism operators report promising booking trends, heralding a brighter future for the sector.
The Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe (HAZ) has confirmed an impressive average occupancy rate of around 70 percent among member establishments, indicating heightened interest in both urban and rural accommodations.
HAZ president Mrs Emmah Kativu expressed her enthusiasm for the current trends.
“As we approach the festive season, the Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe is pleased to report a positive trend in booking status across our member establishments in various regions, with an average of 70 percent occupancy levels in the tourist attractions and resorts and about 50 percent to 60 percent in the city and town hotels,” she said.
This increase reflects not only a strong local recovery, but also a growing eagerness among travellers to explore Zimbabwe’s diverse destinations.
The upbeat sentiment is not limited to accommodations, but is being felt across the breadth of experiences the country has to offer.
The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) confirms a steady recovery across various segments of the tourism sector, fuelled by improved infrastructure and enhanced marketing efforts.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Barbara Rwodzi, has reiterated the importance of community involvement, positioning local cultures at the forefront of Zimbabwe’s tourism strategy.
She said tourism is not just about sightseeing, but about livelihoods, community support and ensuring every visitor enjoys an experience that reflects the essence of local culture.
Key tourism hotspots including the resort towns of Victoria Falls and Kariba, and Nyanga, have emerged as standout destinations.
Known for its stunning landscapes, including the iconic Kariba Dam and the vast Lake Kariba, the town is experiencing a notable resurgence in tourism activity especially this festive season.
Accommodation facilities in Kariba are reaching nearly 90 percent occupancy, signifying the increased confidence among visitors seeking adventure and relaxation.
Unlike previous years, when visitor traffic fluctuated dramatically, this December has delivered sustained business for hotels, lodges and recreational operators.
ZTA Mashonaland West provincial officer, Mr Isaac Mazhetese, confirmed the robust performance of local hotels during this peak festive window.
“We requested occupancy statistics from major hotels for the period between 23 and 26 November and early December; most facilities recorded above 80 percent occupancy,” he reported.
The influx of visitors reflects a renewed interest in local travel and a return to celebrating the holidays away from home.
The festive season in Kariba has also seen a shift in visitor profiles, with corporate gatherings, church meetings, and organised social groups becoming prevalent this December.
Tamarind Lodge general manager Mr Leslie John Chimenya said: “We have witnessed a significant shift in tourist traffic this December. This year has been characterised by corporate conferences, church gatherings, and organized social groups.”
The traditional family vacation aspect remains integral, as most properties expect a surge of holiday visitors between December 24 and 28.
CUT Group of Hotels general manager, Mr Gibson Sibanda said the improved figures reflect a broader recovery in domestic tourism, particularly driven by locals and the diaspora community.
“Compared to the same period last year, the statistics are fair and show improved appetite for domestic tourism.
“Locals are patronising our facilities, food outlets, accommodation and bars, especially members of the diaspora visiting relatives in towns such as Chinhoyi,” said Mr Sibanda.
A Kariba-based boat operator, Ms Zvikomborero Jaiwa, confirmed brisk business, saying boat cruises and leisure outings have been fully booked.
“People are coming in large numbers for relaxation, family outings and lake cruises. This festive season has been very good for us,” she said.
Live performances and entertainment offerings at some hotels and lodges will enhance the celebratory atmosphere.
The tourism boom extends beyond Kariba, with Manicaland also experiencing substantial tourist influx.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs Advocate Misheck Mugadza confirmed increased arrivals through the Forbes Border Post, attributing it to both regional and domestic travellers.
“We are seeing encouraging movement through Forbes Border Post, particularly from the region,” he said on Friday.
