MERCEDES-BENZ EXPEDITION PUTS VICTORIA FALLS ON THE GLOBAL STAGE

From the roar of Victoria Falls to the global spotlight, Mercedes-Benz is driving Zimbabwe’s tourism story to the world through its prestigious “140 Years. 140 Places” expedition, a landmark initiative celebrating the German automaker’s heritage while showcasing some of the planet’s most iconic destinations.

The 21-member international expedition team, drawn from Germany, Austria, the United Kingdom and South Africa, crossed the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge, capturing the landmark as part of a global journey marking 140 years of Mercedes-Benz heritage, mobility and discovery. The convoy’s route through Zimbabwe also took in the Big Tree and the historic Victoria Falls Hotel, giving the team a curated glimpse into the country’s natural and heritage tourism assets.

Representing Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, Deputy Minister Hon. Tongai Mnangagwa welcomed the expedition, accompanied by Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Chief Executive Officer Dr George Manyaya. The pair described the visit as a powerful destination marketing opportunity for Zimbabwe, one that extends far beyond a single day’s convoy through Victoria Falls.

Officials noted that beyond the visibility generated by a globally recognised brand, the initiative strategically presents Victoria Falls as a destination where nature, history, adventure, heritage and authentic cultural experiences converge. That convergence, they said, is exactly the kind of narrative capable of generating compelling international content — content expected to influence destination awareness and travel interest among audiences who may never have considered Zimbabwe as a travel option.

The expedition’s presence in Victoria Falls also underscores the growing role of global brand partnerships in shaping how destinations are marketed. Rather than relying solely on traditional tourism promotion, Zimbabwe is increasingly leveraging high-profile international campaigns to reach travellers through channels the tourism sector cannot easily replicate on its own.

By featuring Zimbabwe in a prestigious global expedition spanning 140 places worldwide, Mercedes-Benz is helping amplify the country’s tourism narrative to audiences beyond traditional markets. For Victoria Falls — already one of Africa’s most recognised natural wonders — the association reinforces its positioning as a world-class gateway to the broader Zimbabwean experience, from adventure tourism along the Zambezi to the country’s rich cultural and heritage offerings further afield.

As the “140 Years. 140 Places” convoy continues its global journey to other destinations, the footage and stories captured at Victoria Falls are expected to circulate across Mercedes-Benz’s international platforms, giving Zimbabwe a rare moment in the spotlight alongside some of the world’s most celebrated travel landmarks — and a fresh opportunity to convert global attention into growing visitor