Khami ruins are the capital of the Torwa seeking dynasty which rose as a result of the demise of the Great Zimbabwe Kingdom .It is composed of dry-stone walled structures  which historians regard as an epitome of evolving stone age culture. It is the second largest stone build monument in Zimbabwe – after the Great Zimbabwe of course .

The ruins are managed by National Museums and Monuments which serves as the responsible agency for the maintenance of this property .Government of Zimbabwe partly funds into conservation work through its Public Sector Investment Programme.(PSIP) . Curious ? Pay a visit!

Image Source : www.zimbabwetourism.net

Dates     18- 20 November (3 Days , Nights)

Price      $250 USD per person

Package Includes:

Transport to and from Harare

2 nights’ accommodation

Breakfast lunch and dinner in Matopos (Meals provided by the hotel)

All Park and entry fees

Tour -T-Shirts

Activities:

Rhodes grave visit

Game Drive

Worlds View

Cave Walks

Culture Village tour

Khami Ruins

If you’re interested , let us know in the comments!

Handle: #Lolo Events ZW

Location : 25 Hillside Road Harare 

Lolo Events has been running for 7 years, with the ideals of the organization being centered on creativity and perfection. Comprising of a highly dedicated team and seasoned professionals you are guaranteed innovative out of the box ideas for your respective events.

Their Vision 

To be the distinguished events firm with the latest technology  that promotes professionalism and integrity providing an excellent service to their clientele.

Some of the services they offer include ; concerts/gigs/carnivals/club parties/fashion shows/ theme parties/college events/ picnics etc. Boasting of a robust client base , some of the corporates they have also partnered with include :City Paints, National Archives of Zimbabwe, Mily’s and investments to mention but a few . 

When you come over , think of how beautiful it would be to have that captivating décor to your picnic , engagement , lunch or any celebratory event alike!

T   The piece is inspired by Michael Phelps and Olympic coach David Marsh. Mammoths Academy may have hinted me to start off with that to grasp your attention. Anyway,  given that informercial is already there I'll graze through for the benefit of our local readership that may not have access to that platform.

1.    Swim Tall

Keep your muscles in your lower abs and back taut as you power yourself through the water to keep propulsion from both your arms and legs

Drop an Anchor

Grip the water with your entire forearm and hand, holding your forearm a right angle to your upper arm and digging in like as if you’re gathering sand with a shovel

Keep your head down

“I look pretty much straight down at the bottom of the pool " says Phelps. It helps with reducing strain on your neck and lower back .

Drag your feet . If you kick good you swim good 

The secret is ensuring your legs are taut , scissoring you through the water , while your feet remain flexible.

So here you have it lets hit the pool and give it a try !

Every morning is birds paradise so step out , breath the air , if getting out of bed is a hustle , just take a peep through your window many birds like to hang around backyards or around nearby trees / vegetation. If you feel you can do more , attract the birds with water by creating a birdbath structure which might make your home a popular drinking spot for the birds.

Invest in Binoculars

Optics are very important , therefore look for a pair of binoculars with a good lifetime and waterproof warranty . Once you purchase them , point the binoculars to the darkest point close in the store you are in and watch through them, this will help your binoculars are powerful enough to catch a glimpse of either the smallest or the fastest birds through minimalistic conditions.

Connect with Fellow Birdwatchers

Join groups , one of the most friendly demography I've grown to know personally is the birdwatcher group. They are always to share information and might even help you find particular birds in your area.

That being said , Wake Up , Get a pair and Go!

Eastern black headed oriole

Status ; Common

It is only found in Africa and has a bright yellow body, contrasting black head and a flesh-colored beak .Ever heard a liquid sounding warble ,accompanied by a whistle? Yes, That’s it!

Greater painted-snipe

Status ; Rare

This gem is a medium sized shorebird that thrives in grassy fields and marshes. It is also found in Asia with a fun fact that these creatures can reverse their roles. That’s right! Females also perform courtship displays while  males oversee incubation and raising the chicks. Interesting……

Livingstones turaco

Status ; Common

Only limited to the Southeastern parts of Africa such as Burundi ,  Tanzania Malawi ,Mozambique and Zimbabwe. the Turaco was named after Charles Livingstone , brother to David Livingstone.

Image Source : www.taxondiversityfieldofscience.com

Serepindity Spa and Skin Clinic

Rating: 9.7

Location: 2 Rhodesville Avenue Harare.

Operating hours: Monday to Saturday from 09.00 to 18.00

Amaras Health Spa

Rating: 9.3

Location:  19 Fernleigh Road, Pomona Harare

Operating Hours: Open any day of the week, closing at  16.00 

Glow Day Spa Service

Rating: 9.0

Location: 22 Connaught Road , Avondale Suite 4 Harare

Operating Hours: Open any day of the week , closes at 17.00

Mission complete, if you feel  there’s need for additions , let us know !

Image Source : The Herald

The festival marked its return after 3 ears (owing to the corona virus pandemic undoubtedly) 

It took place at Old Hararians Sports Club from 7-9 October 

It ran under the name Stanbic Bank  Jacaranda Music Festival

Attracts crowds of 2000+ people

Walter Wanyanya of Ngoma Nehosho is the brainchild of the festival.

Enzo Ishall ,Zonke ,Fusion 5 Mangwiro, Bongo Muffin and Feli Nandi perfromed.

Dj Zinhle made an appearance

Golden Tip: When the Jacaranda trees start blooming next year , be on the lookout!

The Jacaranda tree is native of South America. It towers a magnificent 20 – 30 meters in height and its flowers produced in large panicles. Each flower with five lobed blue to purple-blue corolla.

Several of its species are used as ornamental plants  with a core value of intense flower displays. The genus thrives is full sun and sandy soils, explaining its dominance in the city of Harare. Younger  plants are not known to survive in colder climates when temperatures drop below freezing. The trees are also found in Tanzania , Kenya to mention but a few.

With beautiful walks through manicured gardens, winding through a collection of avian species ,all housed in aviaries replicating their natural habitat, this is a paradise for all nature-lovers.

Book your trip to Harare's best bird park this weekend and tell us how it went in the comments.  You are guaranteed a marvelous experience!

In the province of Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe, Binga is a district on the south-eastern coast of Lake Kariba. Binga was constructed to rehabilitate the people of BaTonga whose homelands were flooded when Lake Kariba was created. Given its leading treasures in tourism and wildlife resources in the region, the district is one of the forgotten.

For a bit of culture shock take an hour to go through The BaTonga Museum which will make you an expert in the rich culture of the people who have inhabited the area since about 300AD. Something great for the whole family and especially for the kids.

The primary occupation and subsistence of the population in the vicinity is fishing. The Binga concession is known for huge hippos, crocodiles, and elephants as well as a paradise for birdlife as it is a water-rich region. Take out those cameras ladies and gentlemen.

If you are thinking of staying a little longer then no problem! There are a wide variety of villas and small lodges on the lakeside, as well as campsites like Kulizwe and Njiri Lodges, Masumu River Lodge, Chilla Cottages, and Binga Rest Camp, whose facilities provide a range of amenities, like African and Western food, from self-catering in the guesthouses to a five-star service. You're not going to be disappointed.

I hope you have a great time at Binga, whose name roughly translates to either ‘the enclosure surrounding a chief’s village’ or ‘a thick forest country’. Living and learning!

Image source : www.myguidezimbabwe.com

There are charges on your bill that you didn't expect.

WHAT TO DO

First things first, ask for the proof of charges, you might have been charged for something you never used. Mistakes happen. It's better to place all payments on a credit card, so if any fees are questionable, you're safe. Also bear in mind that the rental price might not include air conditioning, pool heating, telephone, Internet, drivers, and other utilities, so be sure to make the agent itemize all that is part of the price before you sign it.

SCENARIO

You lose your passport abroad.

WHAT TO DO

I think everyone would panic if this happened to you. You’d be thinking to yourself, “how do I go back?”. Well not to spare, you can contact the nearest embassy. They will help you get a temporary passport as long as you have a form of backup identification (like your driver’s license). You’ll probably have to pay a fee, so it’s a good idea to bring some cash with you.

SCENARIO

Getting arrested whilst on your trip

WHAT TO DO

Come on guys, what would you have done to get arrested, chewing gum? As funny as it is you might get in trouble in Singapore for that So how about we do some research first on the things that can get us in trouble in a foreign land. If you get in trouble because of some prescription drugs, in particular, those with codeine and other narcotic-like ingredients, then it would be wise to carry your prescription with you. Be aware of buildings or areas that considered political installation and avoid taking pictures or wandering off to those areas.

SCENARIO

You lose your wallet

WHAT TO DO

The first thing to do in all these scenarios is DO NOT PANIC! The best thing is to make a call to your bank to canceling all your cards to avoid losing all your money, also report your items to be missing so that you won’t be charged with any fees. Losing your wallet is a tough situation so you might want to look into other ways of getting cash. Maybe try the old method of having someone from home wire your money to you via Western Union, still, that requires you to provide some form of identification. I wish I could help you there but this is a tricky one.

 SCENARIO

You get injured on your tour

WHAT TO DO

So you slide off the trail while you are hiking and hurt your ankle or arm, the best is to contact a doctor. If it’s minor then you might make use of the first aid kit you hopefully packed. Avoid unnecessary injections if you have concerns when it comes to the hospital’s hygiene. Let’s just practice safety always, wear your seatbelt when in a car, avoid drinking intoxicating yourself before any activities like swimming, or rock climbing. Clear head always guys!

AN OPPORTUNITY TO REINVENT YOURSELF

Sociocultural travel, particularly to a foreign country, can assist you to reassess and rethink your life. Exposing yourself to other cultures and other places can give you perspective and appreciation. Sticking to your little bubble sometimes means losing out on a better life or unappreciative behavior of what’s around you. Know what’s out there and you’ll see how you think changes!  “If you allow it, travel can expand your mind in a way you never realized was possible,” says solo travel expert and founder of the Trusted Travel Girl, Valerie Wilson.

IT’S HEALTHY FOR YOUR MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH

Have you ever thought to yourself that the simple cure to your depression is a change in environment, a break from the everyday hustle and bustle? Our minds are programmed to follow a certain routine and this may lead to depression and anxiety. Broaden your options of relieving stress by traveling more, disconnect from your daily routine, your body will be super grateful. I have seen traveling work wonders for me and even people around me. Trust me the glow is different.

TRAVEL BUILDS RELATIONSHIPS

Whether you are traveling with your friends, family, or alone it’s bound to give you some much-needed bonding time. The memories and obstacles tackled bring you closer together. Meeting new people can lead to you having destinations to go to later in the future and spend time with these new friends.

TRAVEL BUILDS CHARACTER

Travel most definitely empowers you. That fear of heights is not going to be conquered by stating indoors. That fear of water is not going to be conquered if you keep bringing up excuses each time a friend suggests a trip. Get used to picking up new words in a different language every time you travel and you will see improvements in your brain capacities, as Dan Roitman wrote in the Huffington Post. You might even bump into challenges that change the way that you think. Now that’s self-development right there!

What’s the travel lesson you learned?

Mammoth Swimming Academy

Location: Braeside Harare

What they do ?

Their aim is to introduce people to the love of swimming through teaching water safety as well as swimming competence.

Who can learn ?

Basically everyone and anyone from as young as 6months to over 70 years old.

Lessons are done by either individuals or groups of not more than 5 depending on how hectic the schedule may be ,or the availability of coaches. Also taught are adults with a fitness program for those who already swim.

Take a deep breath and dive in!

Africa’s highest mountain and the highest free-standing mountain in the world is at 19,340 feet in Tanzania. Remember this from back in primary school? I’ve been told the view is beautiful along the trail of this iconic mountain. With lions, elephants, and giraffes roaming the Serengeti, Tanzania's oldest national park, and black rhinos, zebras, and buffalo gathering to drink in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania has many of Africa's famous wildlife species. Serengeti National Park is renowned for its annual migration of wildebeests. The park is one of the world's most beautiful locations.

SAO TOME and PRINCIPE

This is the second smallest country on the continent, consisting of two distinct islands Sao Tome and the island of Principe. Sao Tome and Principe is a tiny island nation with so much to offer, sandy beaches and crystal clear water and countless opportunities for hiking across an astonishing landscape and an odd-looking mountain. They are known for having the best chocolate in the world. I am going there. 

ETHIOPIA

Perhaps a visit to one of the hottest and lowest places on earth, the Danakil depression, also known as the gateway to hell, with its surreal and alien-like scenery, would be well worth your time if you're of adventurous kind. If this scares you can visit the holy town of Lalibela, home to 11 truly incredible churches ingeniously carved out of a single rock sometime in the 13th century. If you like a little bit of rarity in nature then keep your eyes open for the rare and beautiful wildlife species such as the Abyssinian wolf and the Walia ibex.

UGANDA

Commonly referred to as the pearl of Africa, Uganda is home to gorillas, the Victoria Lake, and Bwindi National Park. Hike to Sipi Falls, the fourth highest peak in Africa, which used to be three tall waterfalls plunging along Mt Elgon. The Rwenzori Mountains also referred to as the Moon Mountains, are not well known, but may very well be the best secret on the continent. Uganda is also known for offering top of the class raft trips along the White Nile. The exciting part of these trips is you will be going where the rapid takes you. Pretty terrifying, if you ask me but I will do it!

 RWANDA

Those looking to experience culture less actively can visit Rwanda’s beautiful city Kigali where you'll learn the craftsmanship that the women there have with their beautiful beading, leatherwork, and art-making projects. Still to our less athletic friends, you can hike up Mt Kigali from Nyairamambo, it’s not too laborious. If you are looking for wildlife then you can visit the Volcanoes National Park deep within Virunga Mountains.

This is just a glimpse of the many places no one talks about. Visit Africa and change your view about our lovely continent!

 A quadripoint is a point that touches the border of four distinct territories

The Kazungula Quadripoint is the world's only point where 4 countries geographically meet.

Kazungula means a small Sausage Tree (a wonderful tree found in the region with big sausage-like fruit.

You can stand in Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana which meet at the eastern end of the Caprivi Strip, commonly known as the 4 corners of Africa.

The Caprivi Strip itself was surrendered by Britain to what was then German South-West Africa (now Nambia) - presumably from Bechuanaland (Botswana) - in order to allow the German colony to have access to the Zambezi river.

The Zambia-Botswana ferry at Kazungula is still the only way to cross the border between those two countries, and the only way to cross from Zimbabwe into Namibia.

Because of the vast area involved in countries, no international quadripoints have ever been claimed.

Access

From Bulawayo .Take Robert Mugabe way in the city center which continues for 30 kilometers south to the Matobo park boundary .A single lane road continues to Maleme Dam. The rest of the road from then on is either gravel or road but suitable for most vehicles. The Park is also accessible from Gwanda by taking the Thuli- Makwe road which is close to Kezi and taking a Northward turn on the Kezi-Bulawayo highway.

Other MUST-SEE Activities

Boating

Fishing

Trail riding

Hiking

Game viewing

Running

Image source; www.timbuktutravel.com

If you’re a fishing enthusiast, then we’ve found the ultimate weekend getaway for you and your fishing pals. Lake Kariba, built by damming the Zambezi River, is the largest man-made lake in the world. Many fish species, including Bream, Catfish, Eel, Bottlenose, Cornish Jack, Chessa, Nkupe, Squeaker, and the famous Tigerfish, are found in the lake. A fleet of fishing boats is ready to take you out to catch some extremely big fish, and the club is also going to clean and pack all your catches so that you can take them back later with you.

MASTER THE ART OF GRILLING

Haka Park is situated just off Mutare Road past the Harare Drive roundabout right next to the entrance to the Cleveland Dam and is privately run and in very good condition. There are a variety of roofed braai spots, with benches and proper braai spots in different spots in the park, all in excellent condition. So you can be schooled on how to braai with your friends there and impress those in-laws of yours at your next braai. Thank me later! They're very private and secluded, and they sit amid some giant, massive rocks that Harare is so famous for. If you are in for a little more adventure you can try their horse riding and canoeing facilities.

CLIFF DIVING

I am sure a few of you have heard of Mutorashanga (a place located in Gweru) and it’s still on your bucket list. For those with acrophobia (fear of heights), I wouldn’t recommend this but the jump ranges from 5-10m, absolutely exhilarating. It has great reviews and a thumbs up from me. Look it up, what you see is what you get.

HIKING

My dear brothers, uncles, and fathers hiking is healthy for you. Getting outside for even a short hike regularly can reduce your risk of heart disease, lower blood pressure, and cholesterol and help to prevent type II diabetes.  Chimanimani mountain is a great destination for you and the guys to go hiking. It is a great weekend getaway for you and the guys.

I hope you have a great time exploring these activities and bring home some great memories to share with the gang!

Image Source; www.stonewaterrecovery.com 

To kick off this list I will start with Victoria Falls named by explorer David Livingstone after Queen Victoria. Of course, I will start with my country, that’s my home. Mosi-oa-Tunya, the 'Smoke that Thunders', is a reference to the tremendous spray and rumbling that the Falls produce, but its native African name is far more expressive. The Falls are twice as high as Niagara Falls, with a width of 1,700 meters and a depth of 108 meters. And the savannah, which is full of rhinos, hippos, and lions, surrounds them. You are guaranteed to get a great selfie here so many spots to choose from.

2.     Serengeti, Tanzania

Ah, it's here. Renowned Serengeti. This is where you're going to find your wildebeest and acacia trees. As you'll know from all of your pictures of Africa, this is one of the most distinctive and wonderful places on Earth. Check out the Olduvai Gorge while you're there, both a magnificent place and maybe where humanity was born.

3.      Djenne, African City of Mud

Overlooked by most tourists, Djenne is a tiny island on a map, a refuge for bandits and smugglers (yes, stay woke), and fantasy for photographers. But once you look at its surreal elegance, with its ineffable mosque, you can't know how it catches the soul of a human.

4.      Capetown, South Africa

Cape Town is perhaps Africa's most beautiful city. It's hard to beat the urban beauty of an Instagram spot with the meeting of 2 oceans and Table Mountain springing up in the distance.  Your selection ranges from Sanbi Kirstenbosch Gardens to V&A Waterfront with a whole lot of spots in between.

5.      Pyramid of Giza, Egypt

Also known as the pyramid of Khufu or the pyramid of Cheops, the Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest and largest pyramid in the Giza complex in Cairo, Egypt. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the work of thousands and thousands of men, the Pyramids and the Sphinx of Giza, was considered to the ancients as a Wonder of the World.  Five thousand-year-old pyramids poking up out of the Sahara, do I need to say more?

6.     Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia

Sidi Bou Said is Tunisia's beautiful Mediterranean coastal village, which has attracted great painters and authors for over a century. Before the French artist, Baron Rodolphe D'Erlanger orchestrated a paint scheme of whitewash and light blue that now encompasses the entire village, it was once a local religious site looking out into the turquoise waters of the ocean. The buildings are also famous, with crescent designs on many, for their great studded doors.

7.     Chefchouen, Morocco

For years, the blue city of Morocco has dazzled tourists and it is easy to see why, with its beautiful streets, creaking doorways, and mountain backdrop. Speak of unique and authentic!

8.     Diani Beach, Kenya

Kenya is stealing the spotlight a bit here, I couldn't go past this country, it has so much beauty to talk about. If you're searching for the fascinating coastline, the accented with the blue Indian Ocean, the fine white sand, and the strange tropical palm tree, Diani is the package for you!

Image source ; www.kayak.com

•      Amber: Nervous, unhappy.
•      Green: Average, calm.
•      Blue: Emotions are charged, active, relaxed.
•      Violet: Passionate, excited, very happy.
•      Black/Gray: Tense, Strained, anxious.

1.       FEELING AMBER

What we are trying to do here is to turn that sad face into a smile. So if you are feeling unhappy I would suggest going to someplace that makes you happy. My suggestion would be to visit any place with art. When you see the weird and yet beautiful pieces that people make, it’s bound to make you laugh a little. You can take a tour around the National Art Gallery. From a personal point of view, every time I visit the gallery I bump into so many thought-provoking pieces, from poetry, paintings to sculptures. Alternatively you can visit the Chapungu Sculpture Park in Msasa. I’m sure a few things will get your mind off things and put a smile on your face.

2.       FEELING GREEN

This mood is something we would like to maintain, so we are not going to try and turn that calm into a storm. So we are going green but not too much. Mana Pools is a perfect place to enjoy intimate encounters with wildlife, in part due to its remote nature. It helps you to go out on a walking safari, one of the aspects that makes this national park so special. Although for others, this can sound slightly dangerous, the feeling of adventure available is irresistible. Keep that cool, cheetahs don’t like attitude!

3.       FEELING BLUE

I am so tempted to talk of Chinhoyi caves right now, and I will! because of its crystal blue water. Feeling blue? Let’s match your mood with the colour of the place. The caves are made up of a network of tubes that lead you down to the main cave on a descent that is breath-taking in its aqua-coloured seawater. This pool is known as the Sleeping Pool and among divers, who have gone as deep as 50 m and the visibility is still amazingly fine, it has become very famous.

4.       FEELING VIOLET

It’s love season and we have you covered! Maybe you want to spend some alone time with your loved one and we have just the spot for you. Wild Geese Lodge! Set within a private wildlife sanctuary of thirty acres of indigenous garden and Savannah overlooking the magnificent Mazowe Hills, Wild Geese Lodge is conveniently situated fifteen minutes from the centre of Harare. Guests will take the opportunity to stroll in the Savannah surrounded by a diverse population of antelope, magnificent Sable, Zebra and Eland at Wild Geese Lodge in Harare-ideal for wildlife photography or bird lovers. Surprise your loved one and show them just how happy, excited and passionate you are about them. Thank me later!

5.       FEELING BLACK/ GRAY

Everyday hustles can get you feeling strained, tense and a little bit anxious. This weekend let’s try to get that tension off. This granite hill on the outskirts of Harare is a great place to go for sun-downers, also known as Domboshava, literally translated as 'The Red Rock'. It's a simple-ish walk to the top, and it's not too impossible to take a picnic basket! There's a nominal admission fee that can be paid to one of the officials in uniform near the car park on arrival. If you are looking to go somewhere 2/3 hours away then Nyanga is for. The trip is worthwhile.

It’s not so a heavy ask to go where your mood takes you. Blend in take a sip and enjoy. Life is too short!

Image credits: Tinashe Mukono

A town full of adventure, music, and culinary arts. Start your day with a ride up Table Mountain in the morning; you'll be able to enjoy stunning city views with clearer skies in the early hours. From here, for some water, sand, and surfing, you can head to Boulders or Clifton Beach or explore the rich history of the Mother City. Both Robben Island and The District Six Museum do a fine job of recounting the struggle of the city to conquer apartheid.

All food lovers are well catered for as there is a special diverse cultural history in Cape Town that affects much of its cuisine. There are a few dishes or foods that stand alone as "traditional." Instead, from Cape Dutch to French and Indian, you can find a mixture of types, tastes, and techniques. Some restaurants serve game meat, such as springbok, as carpaccio, calamari, and  beef biltong. Capetown is also home to the finest wines such as Robertson, so be sure to include wine farms such as Groot Constantia, Steenberg among others on your bucket list.

You must be asking, “when is the best time to go?”. Almost any time of the year is great for game viewing, but December through February sees the bulk of the rain and sunshine (so pack your bathing suits) and May through July are the coldest months. That said, The best times to visit Cape Town are from March to May and from September to November. These shoulder seasons boast enviable weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Capetown’s summer is the most popular and expensive too. Hotels and attractions are usually overflowing with travelers.

The major cities in Africa, such as Cape Town, are the most cosmopolitan, while the region can be seen as extremely rural. Overall, for so many reasons, the country is a bucket-list destination.

 Image Source : www.hotel.info

TRAVEL IN THE OFF SEASON

There are a high season and an off-season during which almost any travel destination is both cheaper and less crowded. You can enjoy off-season trips for a fraction of the normal price. And that's only one way you can save a lot of money by arranging your vacation at the "wrong" time of year.

LIVE IN THE MOMENT

Now let’s be honest, our daily routine is already planned and we run on a schedule. So instead of planning every second of your lover’s spree, just go with the flow. After all, you want to do things you wouldn’t do at home. So sleep in, wake up later than usual, schedule just one or two activities for the day, and leave the rest to anything that gets you that quality time with your partner.

BRING YOUR FOOD

Did you know according to priceonomics, every time you eat at a restaurant you pay 5 times as much as you would prepare at home. A home-cooked meal does not sound as romantic as a candlelit dinner but with the right foods, and a little imagination it will go a long way. Don’t forget to pack a bottle of wine for my wine lovers.

BE FLEXIBLE

Now let’s be honest, hotel bookings can be pretty expensive and you have to be a bit flexible when it comes to lodgings. Camping can be a great money saver for your romantic getaway. Imagine surrounded by nothing but nature and cuddles from your lover, now that is a win! You can look into private hostels with en suite bathrooms as another option. Some people even rent a room or even the whole house, this saves you as most of these places have a kitchen. Food is always the first thing to consider since we all have to eat. Another option is house swaps, spending your weekend in someone else’s home and give them access to yours. There are platforms to help you in this exchange.

GO ON ROAD TRIPS

A lot of destinations I touched in my romantic getaway article are within Zimbabwe and that means you can drive there than flying which cheaper. It spares you a whole lot of airline hustle and you get to bond with your partner on those road trips listening to a playlist you both enjoy.

The thing that makes a romantic getaway romantic is focusing on each other, away from the daily routines. Now, what’s your romantic getaway story?

Image Source: www.africanbushcamps.com

In Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, along Leopold Takawira Road, the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe is located. The museum includes exhibits that highlight Zimbabwe's history, mineral wealth, and nature, including the world's second-largest mounted elephant. Awesome things! It is one of the nation's five national museums and Zimbabwe's only natural history museum. The museum has nine public show galleries, a 120-seat lecture hall, a cafeteria, and eight research departments with extensive collections of studies and ongoing research in the following disciplines: arachnology and invertebrates, entomology, ornithology, mammalogy, herpetology, ichthyology, paleontology, and geology and archaeology.

KHAMI RUINS

If you take a trip to Bulawayo you might as well check out the Khami Ruins. Khami is a ruined city situated in Zimbabwe, 22 kilometers west of Bulawayo. It was once the capital of the Torwa dynasty's the Kalanga Kingdom of Butwa. It is now a national park, and in 1986 it became a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and who are you not to visit if it’s considered a world heritage site by UNESCO.

RAILWAY MUSEUM

By the looks of it, it seems as if you Bulawayo has a whole history to tell. The Bulawayo Railway Museum is a railway museum that houses many exhibits on the history of the railway system in Zimbabwe, formerly Rhodesia, located at Bulawayo Railway Station in Zimbabwe. Its oldest exhibits date back to 1897 and include the personal railway coach of Cecil Rhodes. The museum is owned by Zimbabwe's National Railways. Some steam locomotives from the museum have, in the past, been refurbished and returned to service because of the severe shortage of rolling stock.

NATIONAL HEROES ACRE

A trip to National Heroes Acre may make your kids consider being a hero and buried in such a cool place. National Heroes Acre, or simply Heroes Acre, in Harare, Zimbabwe, is a burial ground and national monument. Situated on a ridge seven kilometers from Harare, towards Norton, the 57-acre site is found. It’s claimed aim is to honor guerrillas killed in the Rhodesian Bush War by the Patriotic Front and contemporary Zimbabweans whose commitment or commitment to their country justifies their burial in the shrine. I visited this place when I was a kid and it was a beautiful and exciting experience for me. The view of Harare is beautiful from the high point of this place.

GREAT ZIMBABWE

A great place to have an appreciation of this country’s history is Great Zimbabwe. Great Zimbabwe is a ruined city in the south-eastern hills of Zimbabwe near Lake Mutirikwe and the town of Masvingo. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe during the country's Late Iron Age. It is believed that Great Zimbabwe served as a royal palace for the local monarch. It would, as such, be used as the seat of political power. The walls, some of which were over five meters high, were among the most prominent features of the edifice. Without mortar, they were made. The city was finally abandoned and fell into ruin. Visiting this place will leave you with so much appreciation.

MUTARE MUSEUM

Mutare Museum is a museum in Mutare, Zimbabwe. It is one of the four national museums of Zimbabwe and was initially established as a society in 1954 before becoming a national museum in 1959. The Mutare Museum continues to be accommodating, as well as entertaining and educational, despite being plagued by decades of underfunding. The displays, especially the Transport Gallery and the Boultbee Gallery, may be old and a bit tired, but they still feature high-quality exhibits. There is plenty of material for the general visitor looking for background information on Manicaland, for example, the show of weapons is recognized as one of the best in Africa, and the transport exhibits are excellent. A visit to this great museum is certainly recommended.

Image Source; www.zimbabwetourism.net 

The Zimbabwe National Gallery is a gallery in Harare devoted to the exhibition and restoration of the modern art and visual heritage of Zimbabwe. Frank McEwen, a British citizen credited with bringing Shona Sculpture to the spotlight, designed and directed the original National Gallery of Rhodesia. Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother formally opened the Gallery on 16 July 1957 and the late Queen Elizabeth II attended the sixth Zimbabwe Heritage Exhibition there in October 1991. From a personal point of view, every time I visit the gallery I bump into so many thought-provoking pieces, from poetry, paintings to sculptures. The experience is always worthwhile.

CHAPUNGU SCULPTURE PARK

In Masasa, Harare, Zimbabwe, Chapungu Sculpture Park is a sculpture park showcasing the work of Zimbabwean stone sculptors. It was created by Roy Guthrie in 1970, who played a key role in promoting the work of his sculptors worldwide. One way to do this was to display the sculptures in a traveling show called "Chapungu: Tradition and Legend-A Civilization in Stone" in the Botanical Gardens. Chapungu has one of the largest Zimbabwean Stone Sculpture collection in the world! If you visit, it would be nice to leave with a souvenir from their boutiques there. Again, to my food lovers, the Cocoa Tree provides a welcome stop for coffee, tasty chocolates, and cakes, and The Shop Café uses fresh produce to create a healthy, creative and tasty vegetarian buffet lunch. This a must-visit place.

MATOBO NATIONAL PARK

If you are more into natural sculptures then you better be on your way to Matobo hills. Matopo/Matobo is a corruption of a Venda word, "matombo" which means stones in Tshivenda. The heart of the Matobo or Matopos Hills, a region of granite kopjes and wooded valleys beginning some 35 kilometers south of Bulawayo, southern Zimbabwe, forms the Matobo National Park. Over 2 billion years ago, the hills were formed with granite forced to the surface, which eroded to produce smooth "whaleback dwalas" and broken kopjes, strewn with boulders and interspersed with thickets of vegetation. Geography students would enjoy this tour. The grave of Cecil Rhodes, founder of former British colony Rhodesia, is carved into the summit of Malindidzimu. Now there is both art and culture in one place.

Let us get to the important things first.

We strongly suggest exchanging your money for the currency you are going to be using on your trip. It would also be safe to carry your currency for when you go back to your country after your African Safari. Also carry your ATM card (visa card), although this will most likely be expensive for you. Another travel document you need is your PASSPORT. If you intend to leave the country your passport should be valid for at least 6 months and will have at least 2 pages to stamp per country you are visiting. To cover everything you need, don’t forget your travel insurance. You can leave a copy with someone in your country just in case of an emergency. Speaking of emergency, keep your emergency numbers on your travel documents. So have your money, ATM visa card, passport, and travel insurance packed!

ELECTRONICS

We can’t imagine our clientele spending a second without either phone or laptop so it is advisable to carry a charger . A power bank, hard drive, or flash drive, an adapter will come into use on your trip. If you have a multi-way extension lead or charger then that will be a win for you. Don’t forget that camera to capture all the beautiful scenery and moments.

TOILETRIES

Staying fresh is of importance always, So make sure you have your soap (just small enough to fit in your toiletry bag, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, sanitary products, hand sanitizer, body lotion, toilet paper, moisturizer, shampoo and conditioner  (we don’t want sweaty and a bad odour coming from your hair. Africa is hot and a sunscreen of 30 and above is healthy for your skin. I love Neutrogena Ultra Day Touch Sunscreen. Look for heel cream for those feet, all that walking will leave your feet with cracks and very sore. Keep those bugs away on your safari with an Insect repellent. Carry your Malaria tablets and first aid kit for mishaps along the trip.

CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

As mentioned earlier, the African sun can be very hot and carrying a hat and pair of sunglasses will be good for your eyes and face. I would recommend those hats with something that will keep it from being blown away to the face of a clueless hyena. If you are heading somewhere with a beach, then take a sarong or more usually, take a rainbow kimono.

If you are going to be spending a lot of time on safaris and camping carry a warm jumper or jacket, a scarf, lightweight rain jacket, vest tops, loose comfortable pants, maxi dress or skirt, swimsuit, pyjamas, shorts, jeans, a long-sleeved shirt to protect your skin from the harsh sun. or shoes you might want to consider trainers or boots, these are comfortable for those long walks and avoid your feet from being hurt by sharp objects. Carry your flip flops, sandals,  and a pair of cheap water shoes just in case you have to walk in damp areas.

To conclude, there is a lot you can bring on your trip to Africa, I just touched on a few of the basics. So think to yourself, do I need this or it’s just extra weight?

Creator: Adene Sanchez

Credit: Getty Images

Most might not have heard about this place, not shocking at all. It is located 28 km off the Mutare road from Harare, just before central Ruwa. Seven San rock art sites along some nature trails are included in this nature park. Since it has a big "jungle gym," braai/picnic area, some animals, an aerial slide, pool table, croquet, and mini-golf, it's very child-friendly. You can bring your food or you can buy braai packs and soft drinks there. Pre-booking is vitally important.

MBIZI GAME PARK

Next destination, Mbizi Game park! Located 22 km outside Harare on the Twentydales Rd is quiet ground, full of mystery and self-contained cottages, for every visitor's comfort. If you are into Game drives, fishing, canoeing, bush walks, and viewing of rock painting then you should start planning for this weekend! In the tea garden, you can bring your picnic or buy refreshments.

BALLY VAUGHAN AND MWANGA LODGE

There is a game park on the property neighbouring Mwanga Lodge and it provides lodging, elephant rides, canoeing, game drives, and walks. You can do a day safari that includes an animal sanctuary tour, morning tea, an elephant ride, a canoe trip, lunch, and a game drive. You can view lions, hyenas, monkeys at very reasonable prices at the Bally Vaughan Animal Sanctuary too. It’s just located 40 km from Harare off the Shamva Rd.

BUSHMAN ROCKS SAFARIS AND WINERY

Another place located 40 km out of Harare, off the Mutare Road is this boutique winery that has an interesting package. A restaurant, game park, fishing field, canoeing, rock art, horse riding, accommodation, and polo grounds are also included in this "boutique winery," all set around a dam in the serene Nyamasanga River Valley. In the thatched lodges which overlook the lakes and valley, accommodation is available. Pre-booking is crucial for any visit so pick up the phone and book an appointment!