We all know Zimbabwe as one of the best African destinations because of its authentic wildlife safari offerings. This is what makes many people curious about this enchanting African wilderness. But if you plan to explore Zimbabwe as a vegan, you might be curious about your options. Travelling to any new destination as a vegan has its challenges. Still, with our essential tips your journey will become much more convenient and memorable!
Exploring Zimbabwe as a Vegan: Essential Tips and Hidden Gems
Even though veganism is not new to the world, the challenges you face as a vegan travelling to some parts of the world are undeniable. Most of us know the vegan scenes in big cities like London and Berlin, but countries like Zimbabwe can still be a mystery to outsiders. Don’t worry; we are here to help you solve this mystery and plan your Zimbabwe holiday as a vegan.
Before you book your flight to Zimbabwe from London, we will tell you some essential tips on travelling around Africa as a vegan. Also, this guide will have some recommendations for you on the hidden gems of Zimbabwe that you might want to explore.
Choose the Right Destination!
Those who follow a fully plant-based diet must choose more developed safari or tourist destinations around the country, such as the Hwange National Park, Mana Pools, the Victoria Falls Hotel and others.
These are some of the most well-developed areas of the country and receive countless tourists every year. Therefore, you can expect the accommodations here to cater to your needs.
Carry Your Supplements!
We must regularly take supplements as vegans (especially B12) and if you plan adventurous activities like gorilla trekking or hiking, you will especially need the nutrients. This will help you ensure that you are not compromising your health and that you have enough nutrients to participate in rigorous exercises - also don't forget about plant-based protein!
Explore the Accommodation Options!
If you have the budget, you can try staying in luxury accommodations and upmarket properties - or just simply in a hostel or an apartment that has kitchen facilities. Luxurious hotels and safari lodges ensure their guests receive customized services and meals according to their requirements. You will be surprised to see the self-catering lodges in some of the most popular holiday destinations in the country. If you plan a trip to Hwange National Park or Victoria Falls, you can book one of these self-catering lodges.
There are numerous farmer markets and grocery stores around the region, especially in the big cities, where you can get fresh ingredients before arriving at your self-catering lodge with a kitchen. Here, you can prepare whatever dishes you want with all the equipment you need!
Learn Useful Phrases in Local Language
One of the significant reasons why vegans often can’t find too many different kinds of fully plant-based dishes and meals while travelling to destinations like Zimbabwe is that they don’t know the language. You must communicate your unique requirements to the restaurants and hotels to get the expected services. Now, you might be wondering how you can learn a new language in such a short time. Don’t stress out.
You will not have to worry about learning the whole language. You can learn phrases that translate to “I don’t eat meat or milk” ('Sikudya nyama kapena mukaka' in Chewa) or “I only eat plants and fungi'” ('Ndikudya zomera ndi fungo zokha' in Chewa). This will surely come in handy while dining around the country or telling your requirements to your accommodation manager - but don't worry, English is also widely spoken in the country.
Accidentally Vegan Traditional Dishes in Zimbabwe
You will be stunned to know about the local vegan dishes that you will have in Zimbabwe. Some of the traditional meals that you can treat yourself to while being a vegan include sadza (see below), leafy greens such as covo and rape, nyimo beans, and many more.
These plant-based traditional dishes will also give you a taste of the local cuisine without compromising your vegan diet - in Zimbabwe, traditional vegan food often revolves around staple ingredients that are both nutritious and fortunately widely available! Some common components of a traditional vegan diet in the region include:
These foods are not only traditional but also reflect the agricultural practices and local resources of Zimbabwe. Choosing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients not only enhances the flavours of dishes like sadza and vegetable relishes but also helps minimize transportation emissions. Plus, supporting local farmers can create a positive impact on the environment! Yay!
- Sadza: a staple food made from ground maize (corn) that is cooked to a thick porridge-like consistency. It is often served with vegetables or relishes.
- Vegetable relishes: these are made from a variety of leafy greens such as rape (collard greens), covo, pumpkin leaves, or amaranth, often sautéed with onions and spices.
- Beans and Legumes: commonly used for protein, varieties like black-eyed peas and cowpeas are popular and can be prepared in various ways.
- Pumpkin and Squash: these are often roasted or boiled and served as side dishes.
- Groundnuts (Peanuts): often used in stews or as a snack, groundnuts add protein and flavour to many dishes.
- Fruits: seasonal fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and guavas are commonly enjoyed.
These foods are not only traditional but also reflect the agricultural practices and local resources of Zimbabwe. Choosing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients not only enhances the flavours of dishes like sadza and vegetable relishes but also helps minimize transportation emissions. Plus, supporting local farmers can create a positive impact on the environment! Yay!
Vegan-Friendly Safari Destinations in Zimbabwe
Here are some excellent options for safari destinations in Zimbabwe that are vegan-friendly.
- Elephant’s Eye Hwange National Park: Hwange National Park is the largest national park in the country and a renowned safari destination in Africa. With thousands of visitors yearly, it has worked tremendously to cater to their needs. Elephant’s Eye is a luxurious eco-lodge in the park that promotes and promises sustainability. This stunning lodge serves some of the most delicious vegan food that you will taste in the country.
- The Victoria Falls Hotel: As the name suggests, this luxurious hotel is near the majestic Victoria Falls. It also has a vegan restaurant, making it perfect for vegans visiting Zimbabwe soon.
- Somalisa Camp: Somalisa Camp is another incredible option for vegans in Hwange National Park. It has a fantastic location, and the staff tries to fulfil the dietary requirements of all its guests to ensure they have unforgettable safari adventures.
- Ruckomechi Camp: This small private Mana Pools National Park camp also promises delicious plant-based food. Most tourists claim that the food here is tasty and of high quality!
Wrap Up: Vegan in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is an anticipated African safari destination you might have always wanted to visit. For those seeking unforgettable safari holidays, the country offers breathtaking wildlife experiences. If you’ve been wondering whether you, as a vegan, can enjoy a comfortable and memorable trip, Zimbabwe promises excellent vegan safari options tailored to your needs. Now that you know this, you can start looking for flights. Browse RwandAir flights or book through airlines like British Airways, Emirates, Kenya Airways, and many more!
What about you, what are your favourite Zimbabwean vegan dishes? Feel free to share any tips & advice below! (Photos by St John Wilson, Théotim THORON and Eden Constantino on Unsplash and WikimediaImages on Pixabay)
