By Priyanka Roshan | July 1, 2025
Only two countries in the world start with the letter Z. Both are landlocked nations in Southern Africa, known for their rich history, diverse landscapes, and one of the world’s most iconic waterfalls. Let’s uncover what makes them truly extraordinary.
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Location: Southeastern Africa Population: Approx. 16.95 million Capital: Harare
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Zimbabwe is home to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, Victoria Falls, Khami Ruins, Matobo Hills, and Mana Pools, showcasing its cultural legacy and natural beauty.
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Zimbabwe recognizes 16 official languages, making it one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world. The most widely spoken are Shona, Ndebele, and English.
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Surrounded by Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, and Mozambique, Zimbabwe is a landlocked country positioned between the Zambezi and Limpopo Rivers, which influence its ecosystem and travel routes.
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Zimbabwe shares Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, with neighbouring Zambia. Locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders,” it’s a major highlight of any Southern African itinerary.
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Zimbabwe is renowned for its rich biodiversity, featuring renowned parks like Hwange National Park and Mana Pools, where visitors can witness elephants, lions, leopards buffalo, and a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitats.
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Location: South-Central Africa Population: Approx. 21.91 million Capital: Lusaka
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Zambia offers a more serene and untouched view of Victoria Falls, compared to the commercial bustle on the Zimbabwean side. The falls are a cornerstone of Zambia’s tourism appeal and are part of the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.
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Though landlocked, Zambia is rich in topographical variety. Visitors encounter floodplains, miombo woodlands, high plateaus, and dramatic waterfalls, making it a dream destination for nature lovers.
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Zambia is renowned for walking safaris, especially in South Luangwa National Park. It is one of the best places in Africa to spot the Big Five, especially leopards and elephants, in their natural habitat.
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With over 70 ethnic groups, Zambia lives its motto: “One Zambia, One Nation.” While English is the official language, seven indigenous languages—Bemba, Nyanja, Tonga, Lozi, Lunda, Kaonde, and Luvale—hold regional recognition.
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The mighty Zambezi River, Africa’s fourth-longest, flows through Zambia, offering thrilling opportunities for white-water rafting, canoeing, fishing, and sunset cruises near the falls and national parks.
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Zimbabwe and Zambia not only share the letter ‘Z’ but also share a border, a river, and a waterfall. The world’s largest man-made lake by volume, Lake Kariba, lies on the Zambezi River, straddling both countries.
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Often overlooked, these ‘Z’ nations reward curious travellers with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and deep history—true hidden gems of Africa.
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