Gwayi Valley

The Gwayi Valley in western Zimbabwe is an extensive river basin traversed by the Gwayi River, a major tributary of the Zambezi. This wide, relatively flat depression is characterized by extensive Kalahari sands and dry forests, particularly the dense teak forests that cover much of the landscape. The valley is of enormous ecological significance, as it directly borders the Hwange National Park and serves as a crucial corridor for wildlife migrating between the park and the valley's permanent water sources during the dry season. Huge herds of elephants, lions, and numerous antelope species populate this region. Economically, the valley is important not only for tourism and wildlife viewing but also due to significant coal deposits beneath the surface. The remote and wild nature of the Gwayi Valley gives visitors an authentic safari experience off the beaten track.

Nearby cities

Hwange

Hwange is the center of Zimbabwe's coal mining industry and serves as the nation's primary energy hub.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is Zimbabwe's premier tourism destination, located on the Zambezi River next to the world-famous waterfall of the same name.

Inyati

Inyati is one of the oldest modern settlements in Zimbabwe, founded in 1859 as a mission station.

Binga

Binga is a unique district center located on the remote southern shores of Lake Kariba.

Dete

Dete is a strategically located settlement on the edge of Hwange National Park and along the main railway line.

Lupane

Lupane is the administrative capital of the Matabeleland North Province and a burgeoning educational center.

Tsholotsho

Tsholotsho is a significant administrative and cultural hub in western Zimbabwe, located on the edge of the Kalahari sands.

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Nkayi

Nkayi is a remote but essential administrative and trading center in the heart of Matabeleland North.

History & landmarks

Livingstone Statue

A statue of David Livingstone on the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls, looking out over the gorge.

Nature

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Gwayi River

A major river in western Zimbabwe.

Sanyati River

A tributary to Lake Kariba.

Tuli River

A river in the dry south-west.

Shashe River

A tributary of the Limpopo at the border.

Mzingwane River

Tributary of the Limpopo.

More places

Hwange Colliery

One of Zimbabwe's largest and oldest coal mines, supplying thermal power stations and industry.

Chizarira Forest

A remote national park with dense forest.

Chizarira Hills

A rugged mountain region in the north-west.

Bumbusi National Monument

Bumbusi includes rock carvings as well as ruins from the Late Iron Age.

Victoria Falls Bridge

A masterpiece of engineering built in 1905 over the Zambezi Gorge.

Victoria Falls Wildlife Center

A center near the falls for assisting wildlife.

Bulawayo Plateau

An elevated region around Bulawayo in the west.

Sanyati Valley

A valley towards Lake Kariba.