Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is gaining attention as skilled hospitality professionals return home. Many Zimbabweans who worked in top South African hotels and restaurants are coming back. Industry leaders say this is a turning point for the country’s tourism.
Victoria Falls and Harare lead this revival. Trained staff are returning just as new hotels and investments increase. International brands such as Hyatt are opening properties in Harare and Victoria Falls. Demand for accommodation is rising fast, and Zimbabwe now stands out as an exciting tourism market in the region.
Tinashe Nyamudoka, a renowned sommelier who spent nearly 20 years in South Africa, recently came back to Zimbabwe. He praises the momentum in the local industry. “There’s a real appetite for high-quality service here. Restaurants and hotels are recruiting Zimbabweans with international experience, and customer experiences are improving,” he says. Brands like La Parada, Mozambik, Doppio Zero, and Cubana are now in Zimbabwe. Tiger’s Milk opened in Harare and hired many returning professionals.
This wave of skilled staff has already brought positive change. Dave Cooper, a veteran tourism consultant in Victoria Falls, says the sector is thriving. “Covid-19 made it hard to keep skilled staff, but now their return is lifting standards. New hotels benefit from expertise gained abroad.”
Recent statistics support this optimism. The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority reports a 10% rise in visitors over the past year. Arrivals from some overseas markets dropped, but a 16% increase in African travelers balanced this out. Many Zimbabweans living abroad came home to visit family and friends.
Tourism revenue has soared and now exceeds pre-pandemic levels. Last year, investors put $194 million into the sector. Private groups are upgrading lodges in Matusadona, Zambezi, Mana Pools, and Hwange national parks. Backed by this momentum, Zimbabwe is attracting travelers looking for nature, adventure, and luxury.
Industry experts say Zimbabwe’s people are its biggest asset. Returning professionals bring valuable skills and hospitality. As investments grow and service improves, Zimbabwe can offer visitors a world-class experience.
