I like the topography of the country from the Zambezi valley to the west to the highlands in the east bordering Mozambique. Often enough I have stayed in hotels and lodges in the eastern highlands and found it be a breath of fresh air. The temperate climate, trout-filled rivers, breath-taking views and spectacular wildlife. The unadulterated Vumba mountains stands out with its pristine rivers with cold fresh water streaming down the mountain sides. We stayed at a self-catering lodge, Montana, one weekend and our children have never stopped recalling memories of their experience there. Check it out on Airbnb, Tripadvisor and VRBO.
Kariba is also a wonderful place to visit if you are a keen angler for tropical bream (Tilapia). Get yourself on a houseboat and spend the weekend on the water. The best time to do these trips is between May and July (Zimbabwe winter months).