Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Tourism Correspondent
ZIMBABWE is rolling out the red carpet, and the warmth of its welcome is being felt from the very first point of entry.
As the Meet and Greet Initiative gains momentum at Forbes Border Post, the country is witnessing a vibrant surge of visitors from Zimbabweans returning home, religious tourists arriving for end-of-year conferences to holiday-makers eager to reconnect with Zimbabwe’s rich heritage.
This growing influx, not only reflects Zimbabwe’s rising appeal as a preferred tourism destination, but also sets the tone for a festive season defined by hospitality, efficiency, and unforgettable experiences.
With the breath-taking Eastern Highlands emerging as the place to be, visitors are invited to journey beyond the border and discover a region where nature, culture, and celebration come together in perfect harmony.
From the moment visitors cross into Zimbabwe, they are met with warmth, efficiency, and a genuine sense of welcome that defines the nation’s renowned hospitality.
Notably, the current festive season has seen a significant influx of Zimbabweans returning home, reconnecting with family, culture, and heritage. Alongside them are religious tourists arriving in large numbers to attend end-of-year church conferences held across the country.
This diverse flow of visitors highlights Zimbabwe’s strong appeal as a destination for leisure, faith-based tourism, and cultural reconnection, reinforcing its position as a country that welcomes all. Ahead of the festive season, the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, through a whole-of-government-approach, is working closely with other ministries and key stakeholders to ensure that Zimbabwe delivers a memorable, safe, and seamless experience for both domestic and international tourists. This collaborative effort demonstrates Government’s commitment to strengthen tourism as a key economic pillar, while ensuring that every visitor feels valued and well cared for.
During this festive season, people traditionally spend most of their time with family and friends, making the Visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR) cluster a central focus of tourism activities. This cluster strongly resonates with recreational and social experiences that define the holiday period.
To ensure excellent service delivery and efficiency, tourism teams are strategically positioned in high-traffic and high-activity areas such as restaurants, fast-food outlets, and musical shows, where most festive gatherings take place. This presence ensures that visitors enjoy quality service and a vibrant festive atmosphere wherever they go.
A cornerstone of these efforts is the Meet and Greet Exercise at Ports of Entry, which captures the true essence of Zimbabwean hospitality.
Under this initiative, tourism officers and hospitality teams were deployed at major gateways including Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, Victoria Falls International Airport, Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, Beitbridge, Kazungula, Plumtree, and Forbes Border posts.
Their role is to welcome tourists with warm greetings, provide travel assistance, and share tourism information materials such as maps, guides, and promotional brochures.
Working closely with the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage through Immigration and Customs officials, the initiative also aims to streamline arrivals and ensure that tourists’ first impressions of Zimbabwe are marked by efficiency, friendliness, and professionalism.
This smooth and welcoming entry experience sets the tone for an enjoyable and memorable stay. As visitors travel deeper into the country, the Eastern Highlands emerge as the place to be this festive season.
Renowned for their breath-taking scenery, cool climate, and tranquil atmosphere, the Eastern Highlands offer a refreshing escape from the hustle of city life. Mutare, the gateway to this picturesque region, stands out as a preferred tourism destination, offering easy access to iconic attractions such as the Vumba Mountains, Nyanga, rolling tea estates, waterfalls, and lush forests.
The Eastern Highlands are ideal for families, religious groups, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike. Visitors can enjoy hiking, scenic drives, cultural tours, and moments of quiet reflection amid stunning natural beauty. Combined with warm local hospitality, quality accommodation, and rich cultural heritage, the region perfectly complements the festive spirit of togetherness and relaxation.
As the Meet and Greet Initiative continues to gain momentum, Zimbabwe reaffirms that it is open, ready, and welcoming.
With the Eastern Highlands firmly positioned as a must-visit destination and Mutare shining as a tourism hub, visitors are invited to explore, reconnect, and experience the pride of a nation rooted in heritage and hospitality.
