15 Facts About Zimbabwe Most People Get Wrong
Zimbabwe is home to 16.3M people across 390,757 km², making it a country with vast stretches of open, largely empty land. It ranks 1st in the world for Official Languages.
Below are 15 facts about Zimbabwe, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Zimbabwe
A complete overview of Zimbabwe's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Zimbabwe had the world's worst hyperinflation in 2008, 89.7 sextillion percent.
Zimbabwe has the highest literacy rate in Africa at over 90%.
Victoria Falls on Zimbabwe's border is the largest waterfall by volume in the world.
Great Zimbabwe, the stone ruins, gave the country its name.
Zimbabwe is located in Southern Africa, Africa, with its capital city in Harare.
The population of Zimbabwe is approximately 16.3M, spread across 390,757 km² of territory.
Zimbabwe has a population density of 42/km²: a moderate density for its region.
Zimbabwe is a landlocked country with no coastline, relying entirely on neighbouring countries for access to international trade routes.
Zimbabwe shares land borders with 4 countries: Zambia, Mozambique, South Africa, Botswana.
The official languages of Zimbabwe are Shona / Ndebele (16 official).
Zimbabwe uses the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) as its official currency.
Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Southern Africa.
The total GDP of Zimbabwe is $28.4B, with a GDP per capita of $1,745, classifying it as a developing economy.
Zimbabwe has a subtropical, dry season may–october climate, with the best time to visit being May–October.
Zimbabwe is considered a Budget–Mid destination for travellers, with meals averaging $3–8.
Zimbabwe has 16 official languages, the most of any country in the world. The country is also home to Great Zimbabwe, a vast 11th-century stone city that gives the country its name and was once the capital of a powerful trading empire.
🏆 Zimbabwe World Rankings
Zimbabwe holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
💧 Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya)
A UNESCO waterfall 1.7km wide, the world's largest single curtain of falling water
🏛️ Great Zimbabwe Ruins
A UNESCO ancient stone city, once the capital of a major Iron Age trading empire
🐘 Hwange National Park
Zimbabwe's largest national park with one of Africa's largest elephant populations
🪨 Matobo Hills
UNESCO granite hills with 10,000 years of San rock art, Cecil Rhodes is buried here
Frequently Asked Questions About Zimbabwe
What is Zimbabwe famous for?
Zimbabwe has 16 official languages, the most of any country in the world. The country is also home to Great Zimbabwe, a vast 11th-century stone city that gives the country its name and was once the capital of a powerful trading empire.
What is the capital of Zimbabwe?
The capital of Zimbabwe is Harare.
What is the population of Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe has a population of approximately 16.3M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Zimbabwe?
The official languages of Zimbabwe are Shona / Ndebele (16 official).
When did Zimbabwe become an independent country?
Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980.
What currency does Zimbabwe use?
Zimbabwe uses the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG).
What is the GDP of Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe has a GDP of $28.4B, with a GDP per capita of $1,745.
Where is Zimbabwe located?
Zimbabwe is located in Southern Africa, Africa.
Is Zimbabwe safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Zimbabwe vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe had the world's worst hyperinflation in 2008, 89.7 sextillion percent. Zimbabwe has the highest literacy rate in Africa at over 90%. Victoria Falls on Zimbabwe's border is the largest waterfall by volume in the world.
What are some interesting facts about Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe has the highest literacy rate in Africa at over 90%. Victoria Falls on Zimbabwe's border is the largest waterfall by volume in the world. Great Zimbabwe, the stone ruins, gave the country its name.
Zimbabwe facts: what should I know?
Zimbabwe is a country in Southern Africa with a population of 16.3M. Its capital is Harare and its official language is Shona / Ndebele (16 official). Zimbabwe had the world's worst hyperinflation in 2008, 89.7 sextillion percent.
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