Zimbabwe’s tourism is mainly anchored on the natural advantages of breath-taking landscapes, good climatic conditions and vast species of wildlife among them the BIG 5.  This cluster is high potential market that attracts high spending markets across the world. Promotion of Zimbabwe nature and wildlife will to drive the economic advantages for the sector.

Zimbabwe’s tourism strategy is centered around a heritage-based approach, leveraging the uniqueness of its diverse cultures, wildlife, plants, agricultural products, geological features, and landscapes as key attractions. The culture and heritage tourism sector highlights Zimbabwe’s local heritage, capable of narrating the nation’s unique story and rich history, no other country can replicate. This sector is the largest and fastest-growing component driving tourism growth in Zimbabwe. Evidence shows an increasing tourist demand for authentic experiences and meaningful connections with local communities.

MICE tourism is a significant contributor to tourism and investment in the sector. It offers a great opportunity to enhance the local economy and support businesses. The Ministry has recognized MICE tourism as a crucial focus area to promote travel during the off-peak season, aiming to create a steady stream of visitors year-round and mitigate the seasonal fluctuations in revenue within the tourism industry.

Township tourism is emerging as a significant sector in the region, serving as a form of community tourism and a means to alleviate poverty. It allows local communities to leverage their social experiences to create value for both locals and visitors. In Zimbabwe, the development of township tourism is gaining momentum in many urban areas. This growth is essential for empowering communities within the development framework, ensuring that “no one and no place is left behind”.

Rural tourism has been recognized as a potential catalyst for growth if fully embraced. Rural tourism not only offers unique experiences, but also brings numerous benefits to both travellers and the local communities. Diverse products such as handicrafts, cultural villages and Rural BnB provide an opportunity in the sector that allows travellers to book authentic Zimbabwean experiences directly with local hosts in rural communities.

Sports Tourism has been identified as a lucrative niche, to offer growth opportunities for the respective economies. Sports events are crucial in promoting national and local tourism offerings as well as the branding the destination in markets.

In Zimbabwe, Medical Tourism has been on the rise due to increased consciousness of health lifestyles, the need for specialized treatment for specific aliments and also rising need for accessible, affordable and quality health care.

The Diplomatic and Expatriate Cluster acknowledges the significant role that diplomats play in encouraging the use of tourism products within the country. This specific niche has the potential to impact travel worldwide, thereby fostering the growth of this cluster.

The holiday and recreation sector is one of the leading active tourism markets in Zimbabwe, providing a variety of services that cater to the needs of both local and international tourists. The country’s distinctive landscapes present numerous opportunities for holidays and recreational activities, as well as potential for investment.

Religious tourism has grown steadily in Zimbabwe as pilgrims gather around the country for spiritual reasons. In recent years, this trend has attracted both regional and international visitors who travel to pay homage to the sacred places and their spiritual fathers.

Visiting friends and relatives (VFR) tourism is on the rise due to increasing local and global travel, with people traveling for social purposes beyond just vacations. VFR plays a significant role in family tourism, and the emerging trends in family gatherings present substantial opportunities to enhance the tourism industry.