Where is Zimbabwe Located?
Where is Zimbabwe located on the map? Zimbabwe is an independent nation located in Eastern Africa. Check out the following images to see location of Zimbabwe on maps.
Zimbabwe Location in World Map
Zimbabwe is located in the south of Africa. It is a landlocked country, so there is no access to the sea. The country is around 390,000 km² – roughly the size of Germany and Belgium combined.
It is bordered by Zambia to the northwest, Botswana to the west and southwest, and Mozambique to the east and northeast. South Africa is in the south. The Limpopo River forms the South African border. The Zambezi River borders Zambia to the north and also represents the country’s northern border.
On this map you can see the neighboring countries of Zimbabwe and also the heights of the country, which are colored darker.
Location Information of Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa. It is bordered by four countries: South Africa to the south, Botswana to the southwest, Mozambique to the east and northeast, and Zambia to the north. Zimbabwe has a diverse landscape that includes plateaus, mountains, and valleys, with several notable rivers, including the Zambezi and Limpopo.
Latitude and Longitude
Zimbabwe is situated between approximately 15° and 23°S latitude and 25° and 34°E longitude. This positioning places Zimbabwe near the equator, giving it a generally warm climate despite its elevated terrain.
Capital City and Major Cities
Capital City: Harare
Harare is the capital and largest city of Zimbabwe. It is located in the northern part of the country, near the Zambezi River basin. Harare is not only the political and economic center of Zimbabwe but also a hub for culture and education. With a population of over 2 million people, Harare plays a vital role in shaping the nation’s economy.
Major Cities
- Bulawayo: Located in the southwestern part of the country, Bulawayo is the second-largest city in Zimbabwe. Known for its historical significance, Bulawayo is the former capital of Zimbabwe during the colonial era and remains an industrial and commercial hub.
- Mutare: Situated in the eastern part of Zimbabwe, near the border with Mozambique, Mutare is a major city in the country’s mining industry, particularly for its gemstones and other minerals. It is also a key transportation hub for trade with Mozambique.
- Gweru: Located in central Zimbabwe, Gweru is known for being a center of agriculture and industry, particularly in the fields of tobacco and food processing. It is also home to several educational institutions and military bases.
- Chitungwiza: A large suburb of Harare, Chitungwiza is a rapidly growing urban area with a population exceeding half a million people. It is primarily residential but also has a number of local industries.
Time Zone
Zimbabwe operates on Central Africa Time (CAT), which is UTC+2. The country does not observe daylight saving time, maintaining the same time offset throughout the year.
Climate
Zimbabwe enjoys a subtropical climate, but its diverse geography leads to varying conditions.
- Highveld Region: This region, including cities like Harare and Gweru, has a moderate climate with cooler temperatures, especially during the winter months (June to August). Summers (November to March) are hotter, with afternoon thunderstorms typical during the rainy season.
- Lowveld Region: Located in the south and southeastern parts of the country, this region experiences a hotter climate, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C (86°F). The region also experiences a prolonged dry season.
- Eastern Highlands: The mountainous areas along Zimbabwe’s eastern border with Mozambique have a more temperate climate, with cooler temperatures year-round, especially at higher elevations. This region is known for heavy rainfall and lush vegetation.
Economic Status
Zimbabwe’s economy has gone through significant challenges over the years, including hyperinflation, political instability, and sanctions, but it has been making gradual recovery in recent years. The economy relies heavily on agriculture, mining, and tourism.
- Agriculture: Agriculture remains the backbone of Zimbabwe’s economy, with crops like tobacco, maize, cotton, and sugarcane being major contributors. Livestock farming is also an important industry in the rural areas.
- Mining: Zimbabwe has a rich supply of mineral resources, including gold, platinum, diamonds, coal, and chrome. The mining industry is a major contributor to the country’s GDP and foreign exchange earnings.
- Tourism: Zimbabwe is known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife, and the tourism sector is an essential part of the economy. The country has significant potential for growth in this area, despite occasional challenges due to political instability.
- Services and Manufacturing: The service sector, including banking, retail, and telecommunications, is also growing, though it is limited compared to more developed economies. Zimbabwe’s manufacturing industry is largely based around food processing, beverages, and textiles.
Despite these sectors, Zimbabwe continues to face economic challenges, including high unemployment rates and inflation, making it one of the more difficult countries to navigate in terms of economic stability in Southern Africa.
Tourist Attractions
Zimbabwe is home to a number of breathtaking natural wonders, as well as sites rich in cultural and historical significance.
1. Victoria Falls
One of the most famous tourist attractions in the world, Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the Zambezi River, on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Known locally as “The Smoke that Thunders,” the falls are one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world. It offers activities such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and wildlife safaris in the surrounding area.
2. Hwange National Park
Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve, Hwange National Park is a prime destination for safari enthusiasts. The park is home to over 100 mammal species, including a significant population of elephants, lions, and wild dogs. It is an excellent place to observe Africa’s iconic wildlife in their natural habitats.
3. Great Zimbabwe Ruins
These ancient ruins are the remnants of the Great Zimbabwe Civilization, a medieval city that was once the center of a powerful African kingdom. Located in the southeastern part of the country, the site consists of impressive stone structures and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers a deep insight into the history and culture of pre-colonial Zimbabwe.
4. Matobo National Park
Known for its unique granite formations and ancient rock art, Matobo National Park is another UNESCO World Heritage site in Zimbabwe. The park also serves as a sanctuary for rhinos, including both black and white rhinos.
5. Lake Kariba
A large artificial reservoir, Lake Kariba offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. The lake is located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and provides a picturesque backdrop for luxury lodges and wildlife safaris.
6. Chobe National Park (Zambezi River region)
Although technically located in neighboring Botswana, Chobe National Park is easily accessible from Zimbabwe and is famous for its large elephant herds and rich wildlife. It is often combined with a visit to nearby Victoria Falls.
Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens
As of 2024, U.S. citizens visiting Zimbabwe are required to obtain a visa prior to travel or upon arrival, depending on the type of visa they require.
Visa on Arrival:
U.S. tourists can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Zimbabwe’s international airports, including Harare and Victoria Falls International Airport. This visa is typically valid for 30 days and can be extended. However, it’s advised to check the latest visa policies as regulations change from time to time.
Tourist Visa:
Alternatively, U.S. citizens may apply for a tourist visa at the nearest Zimbabwean consulate or embassy prior to departure. It’s important to have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival, along with proof of sufficient funds and a return ticket.
Business and Other Visas:
For those traveling for business or other purposes, specific visa categories may apply. U.S. citizens will need to consult the nearest embassy for requirements based on their specific travel purpose.
Distance to New York City and Los Angeles
- New York City to Harare: The distance from New York City (JFK Airport) to Harare is approximately 8,100 miles (13,000 km). Flight durations typically range from 16 to 18 hours, with at least one layover, commonly in Middle Eastern or African cities such as Doha, Dubai, or Johannesburg.
- Los Angeles to Harare: The distance between Los Angeles (LAX Airport) and Harare is about 8,400 miles (13,500 km). Flights typically require one or two stopovers, with common layover cities being London, Johannesburg, or Dubai. The total flight time usually takes around 18 to 20 hours.
Zimbabwe Facts
| Size | 390,757 km² |
| Residents | 14.6 million |
| Languages | 16 official languages, mainly English, Shona and Ndebele |
| Capital | Harare |
| Longest river | Zambezi (total length 2,574 km) |
| Highest mountain | Inyangani (2,592 m) |
| Currency | until 2009 Zimbabwe dollar, today US dollar, rand, renminbi, euro |