Zim is the safest tourist destination: Global buyers

Tafadzwa Zimoyo in Nyanga

Zimbabwe is once again proving itself to be a safe and welcoming destination, with foreign visitors urging the world to look beyond past negative perceptions and embrace the country’s unrivalled beauty.

As part of celebrating tourism month and Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo 2025, international tourism buyers who have been touring the country’s Eastern Highlands said that Zimbabwe offers not only breathtaking landscapes but also a sense of warmth, love, and hospitality that can only be felt when one is here in person.

In an interview with Zimpapers Lifestyle, where the buyers, especially the German group, were hosted by Rainbow Tourism Group courtesy of Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, they had to do a site inspection on some of the beautiful tourist destinations in Manicaland, where they praised Zimbabwe for such beautiful and immaculate places.

“What we are witnessing and what we used to hear is different from what is on the ground. Zimbabwe is beautiful, and it’s like a second home.”

“People should not dwell on negative comments or outdated stories about Zimbabwe,” said Chirag Mer from Mumbai, India, as he admired the mountain scenery of Nyanga.

“What one needs is to actually come here, see for themselves, and feel the friendliness of the people. Zimbabwe is safe, beautiful, and unique — it is a place that will surprise many international travellers.”

Similar sentiments were echoed by Slovak photographer Lado Rot, who stopped at Vumba Botanical Gardens, capturing the beautiful garden and the Mutarazi Falls to capture the cascading waters.

“This country is beautiful and has so much potential. I am happy to be here, and as a photographer, this is giving me a chance to showcase Zimbabwe’s true beauty. It is safe here, and people are welcoming — it feels like home.”

Such powerful endorsements from international buyers have become timely as Zimbabwe positions itself for greater visibility through the world’s premier tourism fair.

The Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi Expo, was held in Mutare for the first time, is not just a showcase of destinations but also a vital platform to boost the economy, attract investment, and connect local tourism players with the global market.

Buyers from Europe and Asia stressed that events like this reposition the country on the global stage, especially at a time when travellers are seeking authentic, less-crowded destinations.

Dutch tour operator Saskia Reinders described Zimbabwe as “a place of endless discovery” after walking through the lush La Rochelle in Penhalonga. “I have been to Zimbabwe before, but I am excited to be back and exploring this beautiful region. What I can say is that it is safe, it is peaceful, and the people are so warm. For us in the tourism industry, this means Zimbabwe is a product we can confidently market to the world.”

Tourists on the pre-expo familiarisation tour were unanimous in their praise of the Eastern Highlands, comparing its mountains and greenery to parts of Europe, while noting its unique African charm.

Buyers from Germany and Sweden said the quiet serenity of Honde Valley, coupled with the vibrancy of its tea and banana plantations, offered experiences that international travellers would find both refreshing and unforgettable.

Local stakeholders expressed gratitude for the recognition. La Rochelle Country House and Spa General Manager, Regis Muchenje, said the exposure could change the fortunes of the region. “This expo is putting the Eastern Highlands on the global map.

‘‘We are grateful that government and ZTA are giving us this platform. Already, new opportunities are opening, and we are hopeful this will boost arrivals and strengthen our tourism economy.”

For Zimbabwe, the endorsements carry weight as the country seeks to diversify beyond the traditional circuits of Victoria Falls, Hwange, and Kariba.

Hosting the global tourism expo in Mutare has given Manicaland’s breathtaking mountains, waterfalls, and estates a rare spotlight.

More importantly, it has reassured potential visitors worldwide that Zimbabwe is a safe, welcoming, and rewarding destination.

As the Expo ended on high note the message from international tourism buyers is clear: Zimbabwe should no longer be defined by past narratives.

It is a nation of warm people, untamed beauty, and endless discovery, ready to take its rightful place on the world tourism map.