Explore Matabeleland

A journey through Africa’s earliest cities.

In the early 19th century, the Ndebele people under King Mzilikazi fell foul of the Zulu king, Shaka, and migrated north into what is today eastern Zimbabwe. The region they settled in is so exceptionally beautiful that Cecil John Rhodes famously called it “World’s View” and chose it as his final resting place.

The journey begins in South Africa’s northern Limpopo province at Mapungubwe, often referred to as the Masada of Africa. This was South Africa’s first known city, where thousands of people lived on the plains surrounding Mapungubwe Hill, which was reserved for the royal household. Eventually, the population migrated north, most likely due to changing climatic conditions. These were the people who later built Great Zimbabwe. A minimum stay of two days is strongly recommended to fully appreciate the area.

From Mapungubwe, continue towards Africa’s busiest border post at Beit Bridge. Once notorious, the crossing has seen significant improvements in recent years, particularly on the Zimbabwean side. With the correct documentation prepared, the process is now far more efficient and visitor friendly, often surprising first time travellers.

A convenient overnight stop after the border is Nottingham Estate, located just 50 km from Beit Bridge. When in season, the elephant citrus feeding is not to be missed. Dinner is served on a cliff overlooking the valley, offering a rare opportunity to watch elephants feeding below. Bookings for the feeding and dinner are essential and can be arranged via WhatsApp.

From Nottingham, travel north on the A6 towards Bulawayo, but turn off at Gwanda and follow the back roads. The gravel is generally in decent condition and far more scenic than the main route. This leads into the Matobo Hills, one of the most visually striking landscapes in Southern Africa, dominated by massive granite domes and dotted with ancient baobabs.

Beautiful display of the Voetsporerentals Campers camping in Matabeleland.

Beautiful image captured of small local huts near rocky mountains. This was captured during the Voetsporerentals trip in Matabeleland.

Voetsporerentals Campers driving through a massive rock valley mid day during the trip through Matabeleland.

Accommodation is best at Big Cave Camp, situated a few kilometres from Matobo National Park. One of the highlights of this area is a visit to the grave of Cecil John Rhodes at World’s View. The short climb to the viewpoint is well worth the effort, offering sweeping views across the surrounding hills.

Continuing north, the route leads to Hwange National Park. After years of neglect, the park has undergone a revival and now rivals its former glory. Camping is available at Main Camp, Sinamatella, and Robins Camp, while a number of remote wilderness campsites are also on offer. These are extremely popular and must be booked well in advance.

If you have not yet visited Victoria Falls and Kasane, this is the ideal opportunity. Victoria Falls offers a wide range of activities and good camping at N1 Campsite. After Victoria Falls, continue to Kasane where a game viewing cruise on the Chobe River is a must.

Travellers wishing to skip Victoria Falls can exit Zimbabwe at the Pandamatenga border post and overnight at Touch of Africa, just outside town. Heading south through Botswana, Elephant Sands is a highly recommended stop (just 55 km from Nata), offering an unforgettable close encounter with wild African elephants. The camp facilities are good, and chalets are also available.

After crossing back into South Africa at Martins Drift or Groblersbrug, the journey is best concluded with a final night at Moriti Bush Camp, one of the most well maintained campsites in Southern Africa and a fitting end to the route.