travel guide zimbabwe

The Ultimate Zimbabwe Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Check out our Zimbabwe Travel Guide

Renowned for its magnificent natural landscapes, abundance of wildlife, and cultural treasures, Zimbabwe is an incredibly diverse destination that promises exciting adventures and memorable experiences for travelers. This comprehensive guide provides key details to help you plan your perfect Zimbabwe holiday.

Key takeaways

Top sights and experiences not to miss, be awestruck at victoria falls.

• White water rafting  – Ride the rapids along the Zambezi River for an exhilarating experience.
• Helicopter tours  – Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of the falls and to feel the spray.
• Bungee jumping  – Leap off Victoria Falls Bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia for the thrill of a lifetime.

Discover Great Zimbabwe Ruins

The ancient city of  Great Zimbabwe  thrived between the 11th and 15th centuries as the heart of trade and ceremonies in the medieval era. The magnificent stone wall ruins provide evidence of the sophisticated early Shona civilization that inhabited the area. Take a guided tour for fascinating insight into the history, society and architecture.

Go on Incredible Safaris

Renowned as one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, Zimbabwe boasts superb national parks teeming with diverse wildlife. Top safari experiences include:

• Hwange National Park  – Zimbabwe’s largest park with huge herds of elephants and excellent game viewing.
• Mana Pools National Park  – Remote wilderness perfect for walking safaris and canoeing to observe elephants, lions, wild dogs and more up close.
• Matobo National Park  – Home to endangered black and white rhinos along with over 3,500 ancient Bushman rock paintings.
• Gonarezhou National Park  – Off the beaten track park with iconic baobab trees and diverse antelope species.

Take a Houseboat Safari on Lake Kariba

The stunning  Lake Kariba  offers pristine landscapes and relaxing houseboat cruises to observe hippos, crocodiles and elephants along the shores and islands. It’s a peaceful alternative to traditional safaris.

Visit Mystical Matobo National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site,  Matobo National Park  contains unique granite domes, wooded valleys, and impressive balancing rock formations. It houses ancient Bushman cave paintings and diverse wildlife like the endangered black and white rhino.

Experience the Power of the Zambezi River

The mighty Zambezi River powers the iconic Victoria Falls and offers spectacular  white water rafting  excursions including family friendly options. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy a sunset cruise on the river.

Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe

• April to October  – The peak dry season brings warm, sunny days ideal for wildlife viewing on safaris and adventure activities at Victoria Falls.
• May to July  – Cooler temperatures and Victoria Falls at full flood capacity make these months a great option to avoid crowds.
• November to March  – The wet season has hotter weather with dramatic afternoon thunderstorms. Abundant migratory birdlife and newborn animals.

Top Destinations and Attractions

Hwange national park.

Boasting over 100 mammal and 400 bird species, Hwange is Zimbabwe’s top national park. It harbors one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, estimated at over 40,000! The park offers exceptional opportunities for safaris and sightings of lions, buffaloes, leopards, wild dogs, giraffes, zebras and more.

Zimbabwe’s second largest city, Bulawayo contains historical landmarks like the Natural History Museum, local markets and the Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage where injured animals are rehabilitated. Nearby destinations like Matobo National Park and the Khami Ruins archaeological site can be visited on day trips.

Mana Pools National Park

Bordering the Zambezi River, the remote wilderness of Mana Pools National Park allows for adventures like canoeing safaris to observe hippos, crocodiles and plentiful birdlife. Walking safaris provide incredible views of wildlife including elephants, lions and African wild dogs in their natural habitat.

Great Zimbabwe Ruins

The granite stone ruins at Great Zimbabwe provide evidence of an ancient prosperous city that was once the hub of trade for the Kingdom of Mutapa during the country’s Late Iron Age. The site spans over 720 hectares and the ruins have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Zimbabwe’s Welcoming and Vibrant Culture

Beyond the natural attractions, Zimbabwe’s friendly people and culture make a visit to the country incredibly rewarding. Here are some memorable cultural experiences for travelers:

• Try dishes like  sadza  (ground maize porridge) and  tsunga  (meat and vegetable stew) and interact with local vendors at markets.
• Learn about ancient Shona traditions and ways of life on tours of rural villages.
• Shop for stone sculptures, wood carvings, basketry and textiles crafted by local artisans.
• Attend vibrant music and dance performances showcasing Zimbabwe’s talented artists.
• Visit community-based tourism projects supporting local livelihoods through conservation, farming and other initiatives.

Essential Information for Your Trip

• US dollars are widely accepted in Zimbabwe. Carry small denominations for purchases and tipping.
• Apply for visas in advance through eVisa or at the nearest Zimbabwean Embassy/Consulate.
• Pack lightweight, neutral clothing. Bring rain protection, hats, insect repellent and warm layers for early morning game drives.
• Drink bottled water only and take precautions against malaria when visiting rural areas and parks.
• Follow guide instructions closely during activities for safety. Give animals ample space.
• Take advantage of tour companies that support local communities and conservation efforts.

Start Planning Your Dream Trip!

With its magnificent landscapes, abundant wildlife and cultural treasures, Zimbabwe promises an unforgettable adventure. Use this guide to start planning your idyllic Zimbabwe getaway! Reach out to reputable tour operators like The Grown-up Travel Company for customized itineraries or to arrange complete package deals. Alternatively, connect with an Africa travel specialist for expert advice tailored to your interests and budget. The wonders of Zimbabwe await!

I know what it's like to go from being a crazy backpacker without a care in the world, via being a vaguely sensible parent to being an adventurer once more. In other words, evolving into a Grown-up Traveller.

Like everyone else, I love to travel, have visited a lot of countries and all that but my big thing is Africa.

I also own and run The Grown-up Travel Company as a travel designer creating personalised African itineraries for experienced adventurers

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A journey to Zimbabwe will take you through an attractive patchwork of landscapes, from highveld, balancing boulders and flaming msasa trees, to laidback towns, lush mountains and lifeblood rivers. Here you can spot the Big Five (leopard, lion, rhino, elephant and buffalo) in its national parks, discover World Heritage–listed archaeological sites and stand in awe of one of the natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Victoria Falls National Park

Victoria Falls (town)

Here on the Zimbabwe side of the falls you're in for a real treat. Some two-thirds of Victoria Falls are located here, including the main falls themselves…

Great Zimbabwe

The mysterious ruined city of Great Zimbabwe dates back to the 11th to 15th centuries AD and remains the emblem and heart of the nation. The Unesco World…

Gonarezhou National Park

Hidden in the southeast corner of the country is the stunning Gonarezhou National Park, ZImbabwe's second largest park (5000 sq km) and regarded by many…

Hwange National Park

One of the 10 largest national parks in Africa, and the largest in Zimbabwe, at 14,651 sq km, Hwange National Park, pronounced ‘Wang-ee’, has a ridiculous…

Matobo National Park

Home to some of the most majestic granite scenery in the world, the Matobo National Park is one of the unsung highlights of Zimbabwe. This Unesco World…

Mana Pools National Park

This magnificent 2200-sq-km national park is a Unesco World Heritage–listed site and its magic stems from its remoteness and pervading sense of the wild…

National Heroes' Acre

The grandiose obelisk of Heroes' Acre, overlooking the town, is straight out of Pyongyang, yet lies just 7km from Harare. Designed with the assistance of…

National Gallery of Zimbabwe

In the southeast corner of Harare Gardens, this lovely gallery has multiple spaces exhibiting a mix of contemporary local, African and international…

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Sep 7, 2022 • 3 min read

Victoria Falls is a must, but don't miss out on the wild delights of Luangwa, the Zambezi and Chimanimani.

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Africa Wanderlust

Landlocked and in the center of Southern Africa, Zimbabwe has been an important trade center as well as the most strategic spot for British Settlement since the 18th century. This comprehensive Zimbabwe travel guide highlights the best of Zimbabwe.

With the British politician and businessman conquering the territory and taking possession of the mines, the area was named Rhodesia by the Queen. 

Initially founded as a British Colony called Southern Rhodesia, it gained independence in 1965 as Rhodesia. The following 15 years saw violent guerilla wars between the white minorities and black nationalists, which ended up in the foundation of the Republic of Zimbabwe in 1980. 

Initially appointed as a prime minister, the longest-running president was Robert Mugabe from 1987 until his resignation in 2017. During his authoritarian rule, he was held accountable for the increased mortality rate as well as the declining life expectancy and economy. 

In November 2017, his reign came to an end as he was put under house arrest after a coup d’etat. He was then replaced by the vice president Emmerson Mnangagwa. This created a tension between the supporters of Mugabe and those who opposed him.

Zimbabwe Travel Guide: Things to Do, Places to Stay, Culture, and Travel Tips

Capital: Harare Official languages: English, Shona, Ndebele, Southern Sotho, Tswana, Xhosa, Venda, Chewa, Tsonga, Tonga President: Emmerson Mnangagwa Currencies: United States Dollar, Indian rupee, Pound sterling, and more…

Plan a Trip to Zimbabwe

Points of Interest: Victoria Falls , Hwange National Park , Zimbabwe Ruins , and more… Average Flight Time: 24 h 30 min flight Fun Fact: Zimbabwe has not one but two largest water body in the world – Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world, and Lake Kariba , the largest man-made lake in the world.

Why Visit Zimbabwe

Amongst all the political unrest, Zimbabwe’s touristic profile has been on a rapid decline. However, that is not to say that Zimbabwe has nothing to offer. On the contrary, the country has several tourist attractions and is one of the safest countries in Africa to visit .

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The magnificent Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe is the sole reason for visiting as one of the most popular natural wonders of the world. Furthermore, national parks like Hwange National Park and Nyanga National Park offer spectacular wildlife. 

The country is also home to some of the most striking examples of Victorian dry stone architecture that can be observed in ancient cities. This travel guide will provide detailed information about Zimbabwe’s hidden gems.

Best of Zimbabwe

Best places to stay in zimbabwe.

#1 Victoria Falls Hotels

This Edwardian style hotel gives you a stunning view of Batoka Gorge with magnificent Victoria Falls only a short walk. The Victoria Falls Hotel features three restaurants, an amazing swimming pool, fitness center, and more.

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#2 Shearwater Explorers Village

Shearwater Explorers Village offers low-cost accommodation without compromising on style and comfort. And it’s no surprise that the Explorers Village is only 400 meters from the falls.

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#3 Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

The breathtaking Victoria Falls Safari Lodge offers easy access to Victoria Falls, a natural wonder of the world. Overlooking the Zambezi National Park, this safari lodge features a restaurant, Buffalo bar overlooking a waterhole, and more. It’s no wonder the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge has been voted 20 years in a row as the best safari lodge.

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#4 Meikles Hotel

This 5-star luxury hotel is located in the Central Business District and features a large pool, airport transportation, fitness center, and even babysitting service. A 2013 revitalization renewed the charm of the legendary hotel.

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#5 Rainbow Towers Hotel And Conference Center

Located in the business district of Harare, the Rainbow Towers Hotel and Conference Centre offers access to the business center, fitness center, elaborate pool and bar area and more.

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Best Things to Do in Zimbabwe

#1 Safari in the Zimbabwe National Parks

An African adventure can never be complete without a safari. The two most significant Zimbabwe national parks are Hwange and Matopos. These African national parks offer an exciting collection of animal encounters, game drives, and walking safaris are both possible in these destinations.

#2 Visit the Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage from the Medieval Era is surprisingly intact, especially the Great Zimbabwe Ruins near Lake Mutirikwe. The ancient capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe has ancient ruins dating back to the 11th- 15th centuries, consisting of distinct dry-stone houses.

This UNESCO Heritage Site is one of the biggest ancient cities you will ever see in African countries.

#3 Watersports Around Zambezi River

The Great Zambezi River at the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia is the source of both the famous Victoria Falls and many adventurous water sports around the area. You can participate in activities from fishing to rafting and rock-climbing.

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Best Things to See in Zimbabwe

#1 Victoria Falls

 The Smoke That Thunders, Victoria Falls is considered the largest sheet of falling water in the world. With a height of 108 meters, it is twice as high as Niagara Falls.

The picturesque waterfall and the surrounding Victoria Falls National Park is a massive wildlife area and a rich rainforest.

Although the Zambian Site is more touristic nowadays thanks to the town Livingstone, you should not underestimate the Zimbabwean side. 

#2 Granitic Boulders at Matapos National Park

Matabo National Park is well-known for its granitic boulders where you will feel like you are on another planet. Not only these rock formations picturesque, but they are also historically valuable for the Bushmen paintings that they preserved.

#3 Bulawayo and Mutare Town

Zimbabwe’s historic towns will impress you with their quaint atmosphere and vintage architecture.

Bulawayo’s National Museum and the Railway Museum are very informative about the country’s history. Mutare Town is another successful demonstration of Zimbabwean culture and art.

We have more ideas on 9+ absolute best things to see and do in Zimbabwe. You will love #5.

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Best Places to Eat in Zimbabwe

#1 Amanzi Restaurant

#2 Victoria 22 Restaurant

#3 Alo Alo Restaurant

Typical Costs

Average Flight Cost: $925 – 1,400 Set low fare  price alert  for Zimbabwe!

Accommodation

Camping: $7-8 per person per night Guesthouse: $20 – $50 per night for a standard room Hotel: $50 – $150 per night

Local meal: $5 – $7 Meals at a popular restaurant: $10 – $25 Beer: $2 – $3 Bottle of Water: $0.7 Bottle of Coke: $1

Transportation

Intercape Bus from Harare to Bulawayo: $30 1-2 hours of bus ride within the cities: $10 – $12 Hiring a private taxi: $50 – $80 per day

Victoria Falls Entrance Fee: $30 Matopos Entrance Fee: $15 The Great Zimbabwe Ruins Entrance Fee: $15 Game drive in national parks: $40 per person All-inclusive safari (accommodation, meals, activities): $600 – $800

Total Travel Cost

Expect to spend between on average between $1,500 to $2,500 depending on the number of days you plan on visiting the country. The cost of a luxury trip is two to three times the average cost, and for budget-friendly or backpackers, spending under $1,500 is very realistic.

Zimbabwe Travel Tips

Weather in zimbabwe.

The winter or wet season is from November to April with peak rainfall in March and April. From July to October is the summer or dry season with mostly sunny days and cold nights.

Best Months to Visit (When to Visit)

The peak season starts in July and continues until September. This time of the year is a popular time to visit Zimbabwe because wildlife viewing is the easiest. It is also the ideal time for canoeing and rafting in the Zambezi River. However, it is also much more crowded compared to the rest of the year, so you might want to wait for October for the tourists to go back to their 9-5 jobs.

How to Save Money in Zimbabwe

• Besides the Small World Backpackers Lodge in Harare and Shoestrings in Victoria Falls, the backpacker scene hasn’t developed much. The other cheap form of accommodation is camping. It is best to bring your own tent, as you might not always find spare tents at the campsite. 
• Instead of using luxury buses like Intercape, you can use the local buses between cities to save up on transportation.
• Visiting during the winter (wet) season will save you between $500 to $1,500 on flight and accommodation.

Safety Tips: What You Need to Know About Zimbabwe Travel

• The political unrest is still ongoing in the big cities, even after the resignation of President Mugabe. There might be occasional violent protests, especially in Harare. 
• Petty theft is common in the cities, so do not go out alone at night. Also, try not to flash your valuables or look like a confused tourist with a map on one hand and a safari hat on the other.
• You must not disturb/feed/engage with the animals during the safari drives. This is critical both for your own safety and for the well-being and comfort of the animals.
• Zimbabwe is a Malaria-risk region, so we suggest that you consult your practitioner before you travel. For detailed information on vaccinations needed, visit here .

Culture & Customs

Zimbabwe has 16 official languages: Chewa, Chibarwe, English, Kalanga, Khoisan, Nambya, Ndau, Ndebele, Shangani, Shona, sign language, Sotho, Tonga, Tswana, Venda, and Xhosa.

The three most common ones are Shona, Nbedele, and English. The white farmers, who are a minority in the country, also speak Afrikaans and some European languages.

The most common currencies are Zimbabwe Dollars and US Dollars as the primary foreign currency. For detailed information about the exchange rates and how tourists can pay, visit here .

It’s customary to leave a 10% tip at the restaurants, as well as giving $1-2 to the car guards. Safari guides will also appreciate tips as well.

There are abundant of wildlife to view in Zimbabwe at the national parks or on game reserves. Ever since the Wildlife Conservation Act in 1960, the wildlife in this Southern African country has shown significant improvement.

There is an increasing population of buffalo, elephant, rhinoceros, giraffe, leopard, lion, zebra, and antelope around the country.

Getting Around Zimbabwe

Surprisingly, you have access to trains between the main tourist destinations . The most popular train route is between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls through Hwange National Park.

There are two types of buses: The Intercape and the local buses. The latter is cheaper and much less comfortable. See the travel costs section for transportation price information.

 Private shuttle and road transfer companies like Wild Horizons and Safari Logistics provide comfortable transportation to the national parks.

Entry & Exit Requirements

To visit Zimbabwe, you will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months on the date of entry. Reservations, travel insurance and return tickets are also required.

There are three types of scenarios for Zimbabwe visa requirements , depending on your home country:

• You don’t need a visa (including SADC countries like South Africa)
• You can obtain a visa on arrival
• You have to apply for a visa beforehand.

For the lists of countries in all three categories, visit here .

Individuals from certain countries can obtain Univisa, which allows them to travel to both Zimbabwe and Zambia for $50. This can be purchased at Victoria Falls or David Livingstone Airport. Check here for the list of eligible countries.

We hope you found our detailed Zimbabwe travel guide helpful. To help you get started on your trip, check out our travel guides , Zimbabwe Packing List , and the additional resources below.

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Zimbabwe travel guide

After a difficult decade or so, stability is returning to Zimbabwe and pioneering tourists are gradually trickling back to the country. They are richly rewarded for their endeavours: with its abundance of natural wonders, welcoming locals, fascinating heritage and good climate, Zimbabwe is one of the most remarkable countries in Africa. The jewel in its glistening crown is Victoria Falls. Straddling the border between Zimbabwe and neighbouring Zambia, this waterfall is officially the largest on the planet and hearing the roar of all that cascading water makes for an unforgettable experience. As well as awe-inspiring natural spectacles, Zimbabwe offers some of the best wildlife in southern Africa. From the forested mountains of the Eastern Highlands to the sun-washed grasslands of Hwange National Park, the country is teeming with flora and fauna, including the Big 5 (elephant, rhino, leopard, buffalo and lion).

Roughly 11% of Zimbabwe's land has been set aside for parks and wildlife estates, but it can do big cities too. The two most populous are Harare and Bulawayo, which serve up an impressive selection of cultural attractions, hip bars and fine dining restaurants. Between these two urban hubs lie the astonishing late Iron Age stone ruins at Great Zimbabwe, which shoot down theories that sub-Saharan Africa had no great civilizations. It’s not all smooth sailing, though. Whilst Zimbabwe’s fragile economy is slowly improving, there is still widespread poverty and the government lacks the resources to deal with the ravages of the HIV pandemic, which affects an estimated one in four people here. Corruption is rife too, and roadblocks manned by officials looking for any excuse to fleece you can hinder cross-country travel. But for the most part Zimbabwe remains a peaceful place full of peaceful people, who desperately need tourism to help build a better future for this incredible corner of Africa.

390,757 sq km (150,872 sq miles).

15,966,810 (UN estimate 2016).

36.4 per sq km.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa since November 2017.

Travel Advice

Before you travel.

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Zimbabwe’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Zimbabwe set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Zimbabwean Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Zimbabwe.

You may be asked to complete an arrival form, including the addresses of where you are staying. 

Travel within Zimbabwe

Officially, some COVID-19 measures remain in place, including a curfew between midnight and 5.30am, but they are rarely enforced.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Zimbabwe, your passport must:

• be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your arrival
• have 3 blank pages, in case you need to enter Zimbabwe and exit through one of the neighbouring countries or if you need to leave at short notice

Check with your travel provider that your passport and any other travel documents meet their requirements. Renew your passport if you need to. 

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to visit Zimbabwe.

Applying for a visa

Most visitors apply for a visa on arrival in Zimbabwe. Take enough US dollars with you in small notes to pay for your visa – see information on visa fees from the Zimbabwean Embassy .

You can also apply for an e-visa before you travel.

It is no longer possible to get a visa from the Zimbabwean Embassy in London.

Zimbabwe usually grants 30-day visas. Check the number of days on your visa covers your intended period of stay.

To extend or renew visas or permits, go in person to the Government of Zimbabwe Immigration Department . 

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the Zimbabwe government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Official Government of Zimbabwe web portal . 

You must have a temporary work permit if you’re volunteering or doing missionary work.

Zimbabwean temporary travel documents

Zimbabwean temporary travel documents ( TTDs ) are not valid for re-entry to the UK. You could be stranded in Zimbabwe if you travel using this document.

KAZA Univisa

The KAZA Univisa is valid for travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia and day trips into Botswana. It’s available at Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls airports and at the land borders at Victoria Falls (Zambian border) and Kazungula (Botswana border). It costs 50 US dollars and is valid for 30 days.

Vaccine requirements

To enter Zimbabwe, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk .

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Zimbabwe guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that you can take into or out of Zimbabwe. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Arms embargo

There is a UK arms embargo against Zimbabwe. It is an offence in UK law to take firearms into Zimbabwe, even if you plan to bring them back to the UK.

Do not carry any precious or semi-precious stones without the correct paperwork.

Taking money into and out of Zimbabwe

It is illegal to leave Zimbabwe with more than 10,000 US dollars cash (or the same amount in other currencies), unless it is left over from funds you brought with you and declared on arrival. Keep the proof of declaration to avoid problems with officials when you leave.

Journalists

If you’re working as a journalist (for example, as a reporter or news photographer), you must get accreditation before you travel from the Zimbabwean Embassy in the UK . If you do not have proper accreditation, you are at risk of arrest, detention in difficult conditions, a fine and deportation.

The Zimbabwe government uses a broad definition of journalism. This may include any form of interview, filming or photography. Consider carefully the risks associated with engaging in social media activities such as posting comments, blogging or sharing photographs, which can be seen as journalism.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Zimbabwe

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Zimbabwe, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Political situation

Demonstrations and rallies can be unpredictable and may turn violent. Authorities have in the past used force to suppress them.  Avoid political activity, or activities which could be considered political, including political discussions in public places or online.

It is illegal to make derogatory or insulting comments about the President or to carry material considered to be offensive to the President’s office.

Blackouts and water rationing

There are frequent, and sometimes long, power blackouts because of electricity shortages. During blackouts, traffic lights may not work. There is also water rationing in parts of the country. Contact your tour operator or hotel for the latest updates.

Mobile network and landlines

The Zimbabwean mobile phone network and landlines are unreliable.

Protecting your belongings

There is a moderate level of crime in Zimbabwe. People travelling alone may be more vulnerable. Mugging, pickpocketing and jewellery theft are common in city centres, especially after dark. Street lighting can be poor. Be vigilant when leaving banks and cash points. Do not carry or display large amounts of cash in public places.

There have been occasional armed robberies targeting foreign residents. Make sure your accommodation is always secure.

Vehicle crime

There have been thefts and smash-and-grab robberies from vehicles, including:

• at the main intersections along the route to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport
• along Liberation Legacy Way (Borrowdale Road) and Churchill Road in Harare
• on the Masvingo-Beitbridge road

Be particularly vigilant when using these routes. Keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed. Be careful at night and at petrol stations. Do not leave your vehicle unattended in unguarded areas in towns.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

Carry a photocopy of your passport or your Zimbabwean resident ID at all times. Leave your original passport somewhere safe. If you lose your UK passport, get a police report. You may need to show this to immigration to explain why you have no proof of entry when you depart.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Zimbabwean laws on the possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict and carry heavy fines or prison sentences.

Zimbabwe’s economy is unpredictable. Monetary policy can change at short notice.

Zimbabwe has a multi-currency system. You can use US dollars for most transactions. In April 2024, Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) was introduced as a new currency to replace the Zimbabwean dollar. The US dollar will remain legal tender. 

It is illegal to exchange foreign currency anywhere other than officially licensed dealers such as banks or bureaux de change. Bureaux de change will accept and change foreign currency, particularly US dollars. 

There is a shortage of physical US dollar cash, so it’s not always possible to make withdrawals using an international debit or credit card. Change is rarely available, so carry small denomination notes.

Check in advance what payment methods a restaurant, hotel or tour operator will accept. Some businesses, including some medical providers, may not accept credit or debit cards. Most suppliers prefer US dollars in cash.

Before making a transaction, check the currency in which the price is quoted. Check exchange rates before any transaction, as they can be unpredictable. 

To avoid being overcharged, make sure to say you’re using an international bank card when paying in shops and restaurants and make sure you are charged in the correct currency. 

There can be challenges with international transfers from outside of Zimbabwe.

Using cameras and binoculars in secure areas

It is illegal to take photographs of government offices, airports, military establishments, political party offices, official residences, embassies and other sensitive locations without special permission from the Ministry of Information. It is also illegal to photograph police and armed forces personnel, demonstrations and protests. Laws are strictly enforced. You should exercise caution and avoid photography that might accidentally include sensitive buildings or personnel.

State House in Harare

Armed members of the Presidential Guard patrol the area around State House in Harare (the President’s official residence). They do not allow loitering by motorists, cyclists or pedestrians, and it is illegal to take photographs. The roads in this area are closed from 6pm to 6am. Do not use GPS navigation systems around the President’s residence and, if possible, avoid the area altogether.

Dual nationality

Since 1984 it has been illegal to hold dual nationality. The Constitutional Court recently ruled that some categories of dual nationality are legal, and it is now possible for Zimbabwean citizens by birth to hold dual nationality. However, the legislation remains inconsistent, and the Zimbabwean authorities may obstruct, detain or even seek to prosecute someone they consider an offender. The British Embassy is not able to provide the full range of consular services to people with dual British and Zimbabwean nationality.

Pornographic material

It is illegal to possess or import pornographic material.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its parts without a licence. Buying or trafficking such goods risks prosecution and prison sentences of up to 9 years.

Camouflage clothing

It is illegal for civilians to wear any form of clothing made from camouflage material.

LGBT+ travellers

Sex between men and same-sex marriage are illegal in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwean society remains conservative towards same-sex relations, especially between men. However, there is a small but active underground LGBT+ scene in Harare and prosecutions are rare. Be aware that showing affection in public could result in unwanted attention.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers . You can also find more local information from the GALZ Association .

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Safari lodges and game reserves.

Safety standards in Zimbabwe’s safari lodges and game reserves vary. Check with the Safari Operators Association of Zimbabwe whether operators are trained and licensed. Animal attacks have injured and killed visitors. Treat wild animals with caution and respect and always keep a safe distance from them. Some activities, such as walking or canoe safaris, could pose risks to personal safety. Make sure your travel insurance covers all the activities you plan on doing in Zimbabwe.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Zimbabwe, see information on driving abroad .

You need either a 1968  international driving permit ( IDP )  or a UK driving licence to drive in Zimbabwe. The 1949 IDP is not accepted any more. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.  

You can drive in Zimbabwe with a UK driving licence for up to 12 months. Make sure you have copies of your passport’s photo page and visa with you in the car at all times. Be ready to show ID if asked and keep the originals in a safe place where you can get them easily.

Obey police signals, stop at roadblocks and tollgates. Make sure you get a receipt if you are asked to pay any fine.

The standard of driving is very poor in Zimbabwe. Traffic accidents are a common cause of death and injury. Hazards include:

• deep potholes
• broken traffic lights
• poorly lit vehicles (including heavy good vehicles and cyclists)
• poorly lit roads
• badly marked roads
• stray livestock
• pedestrians

Emergency services may provide very limited help in the event of an accident, and ambulances are often delayed.

You should:

• always wear a seatbelt
• lock car doors
• avoid driving outside main towns at night
• travel carefully on roads between cities
• carry a comprehensive medical kit
• be careful about stopping at laybys

Plan carefully before setting out on long-distance journeys. Get local advice about any places you plan to visit. Fuel is sometimes unavailable and there may be queues. Carry extra fuel or top up your tank whenever possible. Before using your international card to pay for fuel, check your card will be accepted.

It is illegal to continue driving when the President’s motorcade goes past, no matter which side of the road you’re on. If you see the motorcade, pull off the road or on to the side of the road if this is not possible. The security forces have assaulted people for stopping in the wrong place or for not stopping soon enough.

If you’re resident in Zimbabwe, you may want to get a Zimbabwean licence to minimise the chance of problems at roadblocks.

If you’re bringing a vehicle not registered in Zimbabwe into the country, you must have a police vehicle clearance certificate (temporary import permit).

Commuter buses (‘combis’) are often overcrowded, inadequately maintained, uninsured and recklessly driven. Avoid them if possible. Larger intercity buses may also be poorly driven. There have been serious road accidents involving long-distance buses travelling at night.

Taxis recommended by hotels are usually reliable and in good condition. Major hotels usually have their own taxis.

The UK Air Safety List ( ASL ) lists all known airlines in Zimbabwe that do not meet international safety standards and are banned from operating commercial air services to and from the UK. Check the UK Air Safety List when considering which airlines to fly with. The list is maintained by the Department for Transport, based on advice from the UK Civil Aviation Authority .

British government employees travelling to and within Zimbabwe have been advised to use carriers that are not on the UK ASL .

Rail travel

The rail system in Zimbabwe is underdeveloped and very poorly maintained. Level crossings are poorly marked, resulting in many accidents. Passenger services are currently suspended. Check with National Railways of Zimbabwe for updates.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

The rainy season runs from November to April. Heavy rainfall can make roads harder to pass and some areas impassable.

This section has safety advice for regions of Zimbabwe. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.  

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .

Rural areas

There continue to be occasional invasions of commercial farms, sometimes accompanied by violence and threats. Take care when visiting farming areas that you are not familiar with.

Mining areas

Turn back if you are stopped and told that you are not allowed to access a particular area. The diamond mining area in Marange is a restricted area.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 from a mobile phone and ask for an ambulance.

The Official Government of Zimbabwe web portal has a full list of emergency numbers.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Zimbabwe
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Zimbabwe .

Polio Outbreak

In October 2023, the government declared a polio outbreak in Zimbabwe. Ensure you are fully vaccinated and see information on polio from TravelHealthPro.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

Healthcare in Zimbabwe

Healthcare provision and quality in Zimbabwe is variable and can be very poor outside of the major cities.

There are shortages of drugs and trained medical staff in hospitals, making it difficult for hospitals to treat some illnesses and trauma cases.

Emergency response capabilities are limited.

Private clinics will not treat patients until they pay and often require large amounts of cash before they will admit emergency cases, even if you have travel insurance. Many businesses in Zimbabwe will only accept US dollars in cash, rather than credit or debit cards. This includes some medical providers. Medical costs, particularly for evacuation, can be high. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Zimbabwe where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Zimbabwe

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Econet (mobile service provider) subscribers: 112

NetOne (mobile service provider) subscribers: 114

Landline: 0800 3222 911

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers and funeral directors
• finding help and services in Zimbabwe
• dealing with a  death in Zimbabwe
• being  arrested in Zimbabwe
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are in Zimbabwe and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Harare .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges .

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Zimbabwe on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations
• Africa & Middle East

The Ultimate Zimbabwe Travel Guide

Published: October 15, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Olivette West

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to Zimbabwe, a country steeped in rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled in the southern part of Africa, Zimbabwe is a landlocked country known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and warm hospitality. With a blend of traditional African charm and modern amenities, Zimbabwe offers an array of experiences for every type of traveler.

Home to the majestic Victoria Falls, also known as “The Smoke That Thunders,” Zimbabwe boasts one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. This awe-inspiring waterfall is a must-see attraction, drawing visitors from around the globe. But Zimbabwe’s allure extends beyond the iconic falls, as it is also home to vast national parks, rugged mountains, picturesque lakes, and ancient ruins.

Getting to Zimbabwe is relatively easy, with international flights arriving at the capital city of Harare or the tourism hub of Victoria Falls. Once here, visitors can explore the country’s diverse landscapes, encounter the Big Five on a thrilling safari, delve into the intricacies of ancient civilizations, or simply unwind in the tranquility of the Zimbabwean countryside.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a wildlife enthusiast, a history buff, or a curious explorer, Zimbabwe offers a myriad of experiences to satisfy your wanderlust. From adrenaline-pumping activities such as bungee jumping and white-water rafting, to exploring ancient ruins and interacting with local communities, there is something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will delve into the various aspects of visiting Zimbabwe, including visa requirements, the best time to visit, currency information, transportation options, accommodation choices, top tourist attractions, cultural experiences, adventure activities, shopping opportunities, and much more. So, let’s embark on a journey to discover the wonders of Zimbabwe!

Getting to Zimbabwe

Getting to Zimbabwe is convenient and accessible, with international flights connecting the country to major cities around the world. The primary international airports in Zimbabwe are Harare International Airport (HRE) and Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA).

If you are flying from Europe, Asia, or the Americas, you are likely to have a layover in a major hub city such as Johannesburg, Nairobi, or Dubai before continuing on to Zimbabwe. Airlines such as South African Airways, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, and Kenya Airways operate frequent flights to Zimbabwe.

For those traveling from neighboring African countries, there are also several regional airlines that offer direct flights to Zimbabwe. These include Air Zimbabwe, Fastjet, and South African Express, among others.

Once you arrive at either Harare or Victoria Falls airport, you can easily reach your final destination within the country. There are domestic flights connecting major cities and tourist destinations, including Harare, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls. Domestic airlines such as Air Zimbabwe and Fastjet operate regular flights within the country.

In addition to air travel, there are also land border crossings available for those traveling by road. Zimbabwe shares borders with South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, and Zambia, making it possible to enter the country via road. However, it is important to check the visa requirements and border regulations before undertaking a road trip to Zimbabwe.

For those seeking a more adventurous journey, there are also train options available. The popular “Zambezi Express” train operates between Victoria Falls and Bulawayo, providing a scenic and nostalgic way to explore the country. It is advisable to book train tickets in advance, as availability may be limited.

Overall, getting to Zimbabwe is relatively straightforward, with various transportation options available. Whether you choose to fly, drive, or take a train, the journey to Zimbabwe is part of the experience, offering glimpses of the country’s diverse landscapes and welcoming atmosphere.

Visa Requirements

Before planning your trip to Zimbabwe, it is essential to understand the visa requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into the country. The visa regulations for Zimbabwe vary depending on your nationality, intended length of stay, and purpose of travel.

Visitors from most countries are required to obtain a visa prior to their arrival in Zimbabwe. The easiest and most common way to obtain a visa is by applying for an e-Visa online through the government’s official website or through authorized visa processing agencies. The e-Visa system allows you to apply, pay, and receive your visa electronically, eliminating the need for physical documents and the hassle of visiting an embassy or consulate.

There are different types of visas available depending on the purpose of your visit. The most common types of visas for tourists are the Single Entry Visa and the Kaza Univisa, which allows travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The Kaza Univisa is particularly useful for those planning to visit both countries, as it offers the convenience of a single visa for multiple entries within a specified period.

It is important to check the official government websites or consult with the Zimbabwean embassy or consulate in your home country to determine the specific visa requirements for your nationality. The visa fees, required documents, and processing times may vary, so it is advisable to start the application process well in advance of your planned travel dates.

When applying for a visa, be prepared to provide your passport details, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds to support your stay in Zimbabwe. Some nationalities may also require additional documents, such as a letter of invitation or a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Upon arrival at the designated ports of entry, such as airports or land border crossings, you will be required to present your valid passport with the visa. Immigration officials may also ask for proof of return or onward travel, so it is important to have your travel documents readily available.

It is worth noting that visa regulations are subject to change, so it is always a good idea to double-check the requirements closer to your travel date to ensure compliance. By familiarizing yourself with the visa requirements and preparing the necessary documents in advance, you can ensure a smooth entry into Zimbabwe and focus on enjoying your time in this captivating country.

Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe enjoys a pleasant subtropical climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit Zimbabwe largely depends on your interests and the type of experience you are seeking.

From April to October, Zimbabwe experiences its dry season, which is considered the peak tourist season. During this time, the weather is mild and dry, making it ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. The months of July to September are particularly popular, as they offer optimal game viewing opportunities in national parks such as Hwange and Mana Pools. It is important to note that the dry season coincides with Zimbabwe’s winter, so early mornings and evenings can be quite chilly. Be sure to pack warm clothing if you are visiting during this period.

If witnessing the magnificent Victoria Falls in all its glory is on your bucket list, consider visiting between February and May. This period follows the rainy season, and the falls are at their most spectacular with a massive flow of water. The mist created by the falls can be intense, so be prepared to get wet and don’t forget to bring a raincoat or poncho.

For bird enthusiasts, the wet season from November to March offers the best opportunities for bird-watching. During this time, the vegetation is lush and vibrant, attracting a colorful array of bird species. The wet season is also considered the shoulder or low season, and you can expect fewer crowds and lower prices on accommodation and tours.

It’s worth noting that wildlife sightings can still be rewarding during the wet season, as the landscapes transform into lush green havens. Many animals give birth during this time, and birdlife is abundant. However, it is important to be prepared for occasional rain showers and muddy conditions when exploring national parks and game reserves.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Zimbabwe depends on your preferences and the experiences you wish to have. Whether you’re seeking optimal wildlife encounters, want to witness the power of Victoria Falls, or simply want to enjoy Zimbabwe’s natural beauty, there is a time of year that will suit your desires. Be sure to plan ahead and consider the weather patterns and activities that interest you most to make the most of your visit to Zimbabwe.

Currency and Money Matters

The official currency of Zimbabwe is the Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL). In recent years, Zimbabwe has transitioned from using foreign currencies, such as the US Dollar and South African Rand, to reintroducing its own currency. It is important to note that foreign currencies, particularly the US Dollar, are still widely accepted in Zimbabwe for transactions.

When it comes to accessing money during your visit to Zimbabwe, it is recommended to carry a combination of cash and debit/credit cards. While cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments in major cities like Harare and Victoria Falls, cash is still king in many rural areas and smaller towns.

Exchanging foreign currency into Zimbabwean Dollars can be done at banks, authorized exchange bureaus, or even hotels. It is advisable to use official exchange facilities to avoid scams and ensure you receive a fair rate. It is also recommended to exchange a sufficient amount of currency upon arrival, as remote areas might have limited exchange options.

ATMs are readily available in urban centers, and most accept Visa and MasterCard. However, it is important to be aware that power cuts and network connectivity issues can sometimes affect ATM functionality. Always carry some cash as a backup, especially if you plan on exploring more remote regions.

Keep in mind that tipping is customary in Zimbabwe, particularly for exceptional service. It is customary to tip hotel staff, safari guides, and restaurant servers. A general guideline is to tip around 10% of the bill, but feel free to tip more if you feel the service was exceptional.

It is also important to note that while Zimbabwe is a relatively safe country, it is always wise to take precautions when it comes to money. Avoid displaying large sums of cash in public, keep valuable items secure, and be vigilant when conducting financial transactions.

Before traveling to Zimbabwe, it is advisable to check with your local bank regarding any travel advisories or restrictions on your debit/credit card usage. Some banks may require you to inform them of your travel plans to avoid any potential blockages on your card for security reasons.

By familiarizing yourself with the currency and money matters in Zimbabwe and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free financial experience during your visit to this captivating country.

Language and Communication

The official language of Zimbabwe is English, inherited from the country’s colonial history. English is widely spoken and understood, particularly in urban areas, major tourist destinations, and among the educated population. As a result, communication with locals and navigating the country should generally not pose a language barrier for English-speaking visitors.

In addition to English, there are also several indigenous languages spoken in Zimbabwe. The most widely spoken local language is Shona, which is predominantly spoken in the eastern and central parts of the country. Another prominent language is Ndebele, spoken primarily in the western regions and around Bulawayo. Understanding a few basic greetings and phrases in Shona or Ndebele can go a long way in fostering connections and showing respect to the local culture.

When it comes to communication, it is worth noting that internet connectivity and access to mobile networks have significantly improved in recent years. Major cities and tourist areas generally have reliable internet coverage, and most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer Wi-Fi for guests. However, in more remote areas, internet access may be limited or unreliable.

For international travelers, it is advisable to check with your mobile service provider regarding roaming options and international calling rates. Purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival is an affordable option for staying connected during your time in Zimbabwe. There are several mobile network operators in the country, including Econet, NetOne, and Telecel, offering various data and calling packages.

In terms of etiquette, Zimbabweans are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. It is customary to greet people with a warm “hello” or “good morning/afternoon” when entering establishments or interacting with locals. Handshakes are the most common form of greeting, although some Zimbabweans may also opt for a nod or a slight bow.

Communication with the local people can provide valuable insights into their culture, traditions, and way of life. Engaging in polite conversations and showing genuine interest in Zimbabwe’s rich history and cultural heritage can often lead to memorable interactions and create meaningful connections.

By embracing the linguistic diversity of Zimbabwe and making an effort to communicate respectfully, you can enhance your travel experience and forge lasting memories in this captivating country.

Health and Safety Tips

When traveling to Zimbabwe, it is important to prioritize your health and safety to ensure a positive and stress-free experience. Here are some essential health and safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Vaccinations: Before your trip, consult with a healthcare professional or travel clinic to determine which vaccinations are recommended for Zimbabwe. Common vaccinations include those for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies, and yellow fever. Additionally, make sure your routine vaccinations, such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) and tetanus, are up to date.

2. Malaria Prevention: Zimbabwe is located in a malaria-endemic region, particularly in rural and bush areas. It is advisable to take malaria prophylaxis medication and practice mosquito bite prevention measures, such as using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and sleeping under bed nets or in air-conditioned rooms.

3. Safe Food and Water: To avoid gastrointestinal issues, it is recommended to drink bottled or purified water and avoid consuming untreated tap water or ice cubes. Be cautious when eating street food and opt for freshly cooked and hot meals. Wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizer before meals.

4. Sun Protection: Zimbabwe experiences high levels of sun exposure, especially during the summer months. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen (SPF 30+), a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight, protective clothing. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially during outdoor activities.

5. Travel Insurance: It is essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, personal liability, and trip cancellation or interruption. Ensure that your insurance policy covers the activities and destinations you plan to engage in during your visit to Zimbabwe.

6. Personal Safety: Zimbabwe is generally a safe country for tourists. However, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid displaying valuable items or large amounts of cash in public. Use reputable transportation services and be cautious when walking alone at night. It is advisable to leave your passport and important documents securely locked at your accommodation and carry a photocopy of your passport for identification purposes.

7. Wildlife Encounters: Zimbabwe is renowned for its remarkable wildlife. When on safari or visiting game reserves, follow the instructions of professional guides and stay inside designated viewing areas. Maintain a safe distance from wild animals and avoid feeding or approaching them, as this can be dangerous.

8. COVID-19 Precautions: Stay informed about the latest COVID-19 travel restrictions, health protocols, and guidelines issued by the Zimbabwean government and international health organizations. Follow the recommended precautions, including wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and regularly sanitizing your hands.

Prioritizing your health and safety during your visit to Zimbabwe will contribute to a worry-free and enjoyable experience. By taking necessary precautions and heeding local advice, you can immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of this diverse African destination.

Transportation in Zimbabwe

Getting around Zimbabwe is relatively convenient, with various transportation options available to suit every traveler’s needs. Here are the main modes of transportation to consider when exploring this captivating country:

1. Domestic Flights: Zimbabwe has a well-connected domestic flight network, with flights operating between major cities and tourist hubs. Air Zimbabwe and Fastjet are the primary domestic airlines offering regular flights. This is a convenient option for covering long distances quickly and efficiently, particularly if you have limited time.

2. Road Travel: Zimbabwe has an extensive road network, making it possible to explore the country by car or bus. Car rental services are available in major cities, but it is important to familiarize yourself with local road rules and drive defensively. Public buses and minivans (known as “kombis”) are popular modes of transport for shorter distances and are a wallet-friendly option for budget travelers.

3. Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are readily available in urban areas and can be hailed on the street or booked through local taxi companies. Agree on the fare before starting the journey or ensure that the meter is used. Rideshare services like Uber are also available in major cities, providing a convenient and reliable transportation option.

4. Trains: Traveling by train in Zimbabwe offers a nostalgic and scenic experience. The “Zambezi Express” is a popular train service operating between Victoria Falls and Bulawayo, allowing passengers to admire the country’s picturesque landscapes from the comfort of a vintage-style train. It is advisable to book train tickets in advance, as availability can be limited.

5. Organized Tours: Joining organized tours and safaris is an excellent way to explore Zimbabwe’s national parks, wildlife reserves, and cultural attractions. These tours often include transportation, accommodations, and the expertise of experienced guides, eliminating the hassle of planning and navigating on your own.

When traveling within Zimbabwe, it is important to consider factors such as distance, road conditions, and travel times. While major roads are generally well-maintained, some rural areas may have unpaved or poorly maintained roads. Plan your itineraries accordingly and allow for additional travel time if necessary.

It is worth noting that public transportation schedules may vary, especially in more remote areas. It is advisable to check departure times in advance and be prepared for potential delays. Additionally, be cautious when using public transportation and keep a close eye on your belongings to minimize the risk of theft.

Overall, the transportation options in Zimbabwe cater to the diverse needs of travelers. Whether you prefer the convenience of flying, the flexibility of driving, or the adventure of train travel, you will find a suitable mode of transportation to traverse this beautiful country and discover its many treasures.

Accommodation Options

When it comes to accommodation in Zimbabwe, there is a diverse range of options available to suit different budgets, preferences, and travel styles. From luxurious lodges and hotels to charming guesthouses and campsites, here are the main types of accommodations you can choose from:

1. Hotels and Resorts: Zimbabwe is home to a variety of hotels and resorts, ranging from international chains to boutique establishments. These accommodations offer comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and often feature on-site restaurants, swimming pools, and spa facilities. Hotels are found in major cities like Harare and Victoria Falls, providing convenient access to attractions and amenities.

2. Safari Lodges and Camps: Zimbabwe is renowned for its incredible wildlife and offers a plethora of safari lodge and camp options. These accommodations are located within or near national parks and game reserves, offering an immersive experience in the heart of nature. Safari lodges and camps range from luxurious tents and chalets to more rustic bush camps, allowing visitors to get up close with Zimbabwe’s abundant wildlife.

3. Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts: For a more intimate and personalized experience, guesthouses and bed & breakfasts are popular choices. These accommodations are often family-owned and provide a homely atmosphere. Guesthouses can be found in both urban and rural areas, offering comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals, and insider tips from local hosts.

4. Self-Catering Accommodations: Ideal for those who prefer more independence and flexibility, self-catering accommodations such as cottages, apartments, or villas give you the freedom to prepare your own meals. These accommodations are well-suited for longer stays or for travelers who prefer to immerse themselves in local communities.

5. Camping: Zimbabwe boasts stunning natural landscapes, and camping is a popular option for adventure enthusiasts. National parks, like Hwange and Mana Pools, offer designated camping areas with basic facilities. Some private lodges and campsites also provide camping facilities, complete with amenities like hot showers and communal cooking areas.

When selecting your accommodation, consider factors such as location, proximity to attractions, available amenities, and pricing. It is advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred choice.

As tourism in Zimbabwe continues to develop, eco-lodges and sustainable accommodations are becoming more prevalent. These establishments prioritize the environment, local communities, and responsible tourism practices. Staying at such accommodations allows visitors to contribute to conservation efforts and support the local economy.

Whether you opt for the luxury of a safari lodge, the comfort of a hotel, or the rustic charm of a guesthouse, Zimbabwe offers a wide array of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Whichever you choose, you are sure to find a place to rest and recharge while immersing yourself in the country’s natural beauty and warm hospitality.

Top Tourist Attractions in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a treasure trove of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and awe-inspiring wildlife. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that should be on your itinerary when visiting this captivating country:

1. Victoria Falls: Known as “The Smoke That Thunders,” Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s most iconic landmarks. This majestic waterfall on the Zambezi River forms the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Witness the tremendous power of the falls as you marvel at the mist and watch as the water cascades down the gorge. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a thrilling helicopter flight or a daring bungee jump for an unforgettable experience.

2. Hwange National Park: As Zimbabwe’s largest national park, Hwange is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to a vast array of animals, including the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino), as well as giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and numerous bird species. Embark on exciting game drives, guided walks, or even night safaris to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and diversity of this park.

3. Mana Pools National Park: Situated along the mighty Zambezi River, Mana Pools is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters. Explore the park on foot, accompanied by experienced guides, and witness elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of birdlife up close. Canoeing along the Zambezi’s tranquil channels is a must-do activity for nature lovers.

4. Great Zimbabwe National Monument: A testament to Zimbabwe’s ancient civilization, the Great Zimbabwe National Monument is an archaeological site that showcases the remnants of an ancient city. Explore the impressive stone structures, including the Great Enclosure, and learn about the rich history and culture of the area. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a fascinating glimpse into Zimbabwe’s past.

5. Matobo National Park: Known for its striking granite rock formations and diverse wildlife, Matobo National Park is a fascinating destination. The park is home to a large population of rhinos, making it an ideal place for rhino tracking. Don’t miss the chance to visit the burial site of Cecil John Rhodes, located at the top of Malindidzimu Hill, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

6. Eastern Highlands: Escape to the serene beauty of Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands, a region of lush green mountains, waterfalls, and picturesque valleys. Explore the Nyanga National Park, hike to the scenic Pungwe Falls, or marvel at the ancient rock paintings in the Chimanimani Mountains. This area is popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and bird-watching.

7. Lake Kariba: Africa’s largest human-made lake, Lake Kariba, offers a tranquil getaway in the heart of Zimbabwe. Enjoy boat cruises on the lake, go fishing for tigerfish, or simply relax on its shores and witness stunning sunsets. The lake is also home to a thriving population of hippos and crocodiles.

These are just a few of the many incredible attractions that Zimbabwe has to offer. The country’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife make it a truly captivating destination. So, immerse yourself in the wonders of Zimbabwe and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Wildlife and Safari Experiences

Zimbabwe is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, offering an abundance of national parks and game reserves that allow visitors to experience the wonders of the African savannah. From thrilling game drives to walking safaris, here are some of the best wildlife experiences to enjoy in Zimbabwe:

1. Hwange National Park: Spanning over 14,600 square kilometers, Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest and most iconic national park. Renowned for its diverse range of wildlife, including massive elephant herds, lions, leopards, zebras, giraffes, and numerous bird species, Hwange promises incredible game viewing opportunities. Embark on a game drive or guided walking safari to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the wild.

2. Mana Pools National Park: Located along the Zambezi River, Mana Pools National Park offers a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its stunning floodplains, which attract a variety of animals, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a wide range of bird species. Explore the park on foot with experienced guides, who will lead you to wildlife hotspots and ensure a safe and memorable encounter.

3. Matobo National Park: Matobo National Park is not only famous for its rock formations but also for being home to a significant population of black and white rhinos. Join a rhino tracking excursion accompanied by knowledgeable rangers, and witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The park is also home to other wildlife species such as leopards, zebras, giraffes, and a wealth of birdlife.

4. Zambezi River Safaris: The Zambezi River provides a unique opportunity to witness wildlife from a different perspective. Take a boat safari along the Zambezi, especially in the vicinity of Mana Pools or the Matusadona National Park, and encounter an array of animals coming to the river to drink. From hippos and crocodiles to elephants and buffalo, you are sure to have thrilling up-close encounters with Zimbabwe’s incredible wildlife.

5. Gonarezhou National Park: Located in the southeastern part of the country, Gonarezhou National Park offers a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains, rolling plains, and picturesque riverine valleys. Explore the park on game drives or walking safaris and encounter a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, and various antelope species.

6. Bird-Watching: Zimbabwe is a haven for bird-watchers, with over 670 bird species recorded within its borders. From vibrant sunbirds and elusive raptors to iconic African species like the African Fish Eagle, bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the diverse avian population. Birding hotspots include Mana Pools, Matusadona National Park, and the Eastern Highlands.

While Zimbabwe’s national parks offer incredible wildlife experiences, it is important to practice responsible and ethical tourism. Respect the animals’ habitat, adhere to park regulations, and follow the guidance of experienced guides to ensure the well-being of wildlife and your own safety.

Embarking on a wildlife safari in Zimbabwe is an opportunity to witness the raw beauty of nature and encounter some of Africa’s most iconic animals. So, grab your binoculars, camera, and adventurous spirit, and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife experience in Zimbabwe.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Immerse yourself in Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage and explore its fascinating historical sites. From ancient ruins to vibrant local traditions, here are some of the top cultural and historical attractions to discover:

1. Great Zimbabwe National Monument: The Great Zimbabwe National Monument is one of Zimbabwe’s most important historical sites. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the remains of an ancient city, built between the 11th and 15th centuries. Marvel at the intricate stonework of the Great Enclosure and explore the ruins that offer insights into the impressive architecture and culture of the past.

2. Khami Ruins: Located near Bulawayo, the Khami Ruins are another fascinating archaeological site that provides a glimpse into Zimbabwe’s medieval past. These ruins were once the capital of the Torwa dynasty and feature impressive granite masonry and exquisite stone carvings. Explore the intricately decorated walls and learn about the history and significance of the site.

3. Great Zimbabwe Museum: Adjacent to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the Great Zimbabwe Museum offers a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the site. The museum displays artifacts and exhibits that provide insights into the daily life, trade, and cultural practices of the people who lived in the ancient city.

4. National Heroes Acre: Located in Harare, the National Heroes Acre is a national monument and burial ground honoring the heroes of Zimbabwe’s struggle for independence. Take a guided tour to learn about the individuals who played a significant role in the country’s history and pay your respects at the monument and gravesites.

5. Traditional Villages and Cultural Experiences: To gain a firsthand experience of Zimbabwean culture, visit traditional villages and engage with local communities. Immerse yourself in traditional dances, music, and crafts while learning about the customs, traditions, and ancestral beliefs of Zimbabwe’s diverse ethnic groups.

6. National Gallery of Zimbabwe: For art enthusiasts, a visit to the National Gallery of Zimbabwe is a must. Located in Harare, the gallery showcases a wide range of contemporary and traditional Zimbabwean art, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and mixed-media works. Explore the exhibitions and gain insight into the country’s vibrant arts scene.

7. Cultural Festivals: Zimbabwe hosts a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year, showcasing the country’s vibrant traditions and customs. The Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) and the Mbira Festival are just a few examples of events that celebrate music, dance, and the visual arts, offering an opportunity to engage with the local culture.

By visiting these cultural and historical sites, you can delve into Zimbabwe’s past, appreciate its artistic heritage, and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse cultural tapestry. So, take the time to explore these sites, interact with the local communities, and embrace the richness of Zimbabwe’s cultural and historical treasures.

Adventure Activities

Zimbabwe is a playground for thrill-seekers, offering a wide range of exhilarating adventure activities that cater to every level of adrenaline junkie. From heart-pounding experiences to awe-inspiring natural wonders, here are some of the top adventure activities to enjoy in Zimbabwe:

1. White-Water Rafting: Take on the mighty Zambezi River and experience the thrill of white-water rafting. The rapids below Victoria Falls provide an adrenaline-pumping adventure as you navigate the turbulent waters and exhilarating drops. Various operators offer guided rafting trips, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.

2. Bungee Jumping: Test your courage by leaping off the Victoria Falls Bridge, with the Zambezi River swirling beneath you. With a bungee jump height of over 100 meters, this is one of the highest commercial jumps in the world. Feel the rush of extreme adrenaline and enjoy breathtaking views as you plunge towards the river.

3. Canoeing Safaris: Discover the beauty of Zimbabwe’s waterways on a canoeing safari. Paddle along the Zambezi River or the tranquil channels of Mana Pools National Park, keeping an eye out for wildlife along the banks. This unique experience allows for a more intimate encounter with nature and the opportunity to witness incredible birdlife and graceful hippos.

4. Walking Safaris: Embark on a walking safari for an up-close and intimate experience with Africa’s wildlife. Accompanied by experienced guides, venture into Zimbabwe’s national parks and encounter animals in their natural habitat. Discover animal tracks, learn about the local flora, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the wilderness.

5. Zip-lining: Soar through the treetops and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscapes on a thrilling zip-lining adventure. Various zip-lining courses are available in Zimbabwe, including the Canopy Tour in Victoria Falls. Experience the adrenaline rush as you glide from platform to platform, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding nature.

6. Horseback Safaris: Explore the untamed beauty of Zimbabwe on horseback. Join a guided horseback safari and ride through the wilderness, encountering wildlife along the way. This unique mode of transportation allows for an intimate connection with nature and offers a different perspective on Zimbabwe’s landscapes.

7. Mountain Climbing: For those seeking a physical and mental challenge, consider scaling one of Zimbabwe’s mountains. Mount Nyangani, the highest peak in Zimbabwe, offers rewarding hiking trails, breathtaking vistas, and a chance to conquer its majestic summit. Marvel at the stunning landscapes and relish the sense of achievement upon reaching the top.

These adventure activities in Zimbabwe offer an opportunity to push your limits, create unforgettable memories, and connect with the country’s extraordinary natural beauty. It is essential to engage in these activities with reputable operators who prioritize safety and environmental conservation. So, prepare for an adrenaline-fueled journey and embrace the thrill of adventure in Zimbabwe.

Shopping and Souvenirs

When visiting Zimbabwe, you’ll find a vibrant and diverse shopping scene that offers a range of unique souvenirs and local crafts. From traditional markets to modern shopping malls, here are some of the best shopping experiences to explore:

1. Curio Markets: Zimbabwe is known for its bustling curio markets, where you can find an array of handmade crafts, wood carvings, textiles, and traditional artwork. The most popular markets include the Elephant’s Walk Craft Village in Victoria Falls, Shona Sculpture Gallery in Harare, and Mbare Musika Market in Harare, renowned for its wide selection of traditional crafts.

2. Art Galleries: Zimbabwe is home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous art galleries showcasing both traditional and contemporary Zimbabwean art. Visit galleries such as the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Harare, the Village Unhu in Harare, or the Tengenenge Art Community near Guruve to appreciate and purchase unique artworks created by local artists.

3. Local Handicrafts: Take the opportunity to support local artisans by purchasing handcrafted items such as baskets, pottery, jewelry, and woven goods. These items often reflect Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship. Look for cooperatives and craft centers, such as the Ekhaya Arts and Crafts Cooperative in Bulawayo or the native Amhlope Pottery in Harare.

4. Traditional Fabrics and Clothing: Zimbabwe is known for its vibrant textiles and traditional fabrics. Explore markets and shops for traditional garments like the colorful chitenge or kanga fabric, which can be transformed into clothing, accessories, or decorative items. These fabrics make for stylish and unique souvenirs.

5. Mbira Instruments: The mbira, a traditional thumb piano, holds great cultural significance in Zimbabwe. It is a popular musical instrument and makes for a distinctive and authentic souvenir. Look for mbiras made by local artisans, which can be found at markets or specialized souvenir shops.

6. Gemstones and Jewelry: Zimbabwe is known for its wealth of precious gemstones, such as emeralds, rubies, and garnets. Explore jewelry stores and gemstone markets for intricately crafted pieces or loose gemstones. Verify the authenticity and quality of gemstones from reputable merchants.

7. Open-Air Craft Fairs: Keep an eye out for open-air craft fairs and cultural events, which bring together artisans from different regions of Zimbabwe. These events offer a unique shopping experience, allowing you to interact directly with the craftsmen and learn more about their craft traditions.

When purchasing souvenirs, take note of your country’s customs regulations regarding the importation of materials such as wood, plant products, or animal products. It is important to support sustainable practices and only buy items made from legal or ethically sourced materials.

By exploring Zimbabwe’s shopping scene and purchasing locally made goods, you not only bring home unique and meaningful souvenirs but also contribute to the livelihoods of local artisans and the preservation of Zimbabwean craft traditions.

Traditional Zimbabwean Cuisine

Exploring the culinary delights of Zimbabwe is an essential part of immersing yourself in the country’s vibrant culture. Traditional Zimbabwean cuisine is influenced by the country’s diverse ethnic groups and incorporates local ingredients to create flavorful and hearty dishes. Here are some must-try traditional Zimbabwean dishes:

1. Sadza: Considered the staple food of Zimbabwe, sadza is a thick cornmeal porridge that accompanies almost every meal. It is usually served hot and eaten with different relishes such as vegetable stews, meat dishes, or sautéed greens. Sadza is eaten by rolling it into a ball with your fingers and using it to scoop up the accompanying relishes.

2. Nyama Choma: This dish is a popular favorite, especially during festive occasions or social gatherings. Nyama Choma refers to grilled meat, often goat or beef, marinated with various spices and charcoal-grilled to perfection. It is usually served in chunks, accompanied by a side of sadza and a fresh vegetable salad.

3. Boerewors: This dish has South African origins but is widely enjoyed in Zimbabwe. Boerewors is a type of sausage made from beef mince and a blend of spices. It is typically grilled or braaied and served as a filling in a fresh roll or alongside sadza and relishes.

4. Mopane Worms: A unique delicacy in Zimbabwe, mopane worms are actually caterpillars of the emperor moth. These protein-rich worms are usually dried or cooked in various recipes, such as stir-fries or stews. They are often enjoyed as a snack or incorporated into traditional dishes to add a distinct flavor.

5. Dovi: Dovi is a peanut butter-based stew that is widely enjoyed across Zimbabwe. It is typically made with chicken or beef, vegetables such as tomatoes and onions, and flavored with spices like garlic and chili. Dovi is often served with sadza or rice, creating a hearty and flavorful meal.

6. Muriwo na Nyama: This dish features collard greens or spinach cooked with tender pieces of meat, creating a delicious and nutritious combination. The greens are sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and various spices, giving the dish a savory flavor. It is often served with sadza or rice.

7. Maheu: As a popular traditional drink in Zimbabwe, maheu is a thick and creamy beverage made from fermented grains, usually maize or millet. It has a slightly sour taste and is often flavored with sugar, vanilla, or other natural flavorings. Maheu is a refreshing and filling drink, perfect for quenching your thirst on a warm day.

When exploring traditional Zimbabwean cuisine, you’ll also come across various side dishes and snacks such as roasted peanuts, maputi (popped corn), biltong (dried cured meat), and a wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables that are grown locally.

By sampling traditional Zimbabwean dishes, you’ll discover the rich flavors, textures, and warmth that define the country’s cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor these local delicacies and experience the gastronomic delights that Zimbabwe has to offer.

Nightlife and Entertainment

While Zimbabwe is famed for its natural beauty and wildlife, the country also offers vibrant nightlife and entertainment options that cater to all tastes. From live music to lively bars and nightclubs, here are some activities to enjoy after the sun sets:

1. Harare’s Entertainment Scene: The capital city of Harare is known for its lively nightlife. Head to popular areas such as Sam Levy’s Village, Newlands, or Borrowdale to find a wide array of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Enjoy live music performances by local bands and artists, showcasing genres like Afro-jazz, reggae, or contemporary pop.

2. Victoria Falls: Evenings at Victoria Falls offer a unique experience, with many establishments offering sundowner cruises along the mighty Zambezi River. Sip on cocktails as you sail along the river, enjoying breathtaking views and the beauty of an African sunset. Dinner cruises with live entertainment are also available, combining fine dining with a lively ambiance.

3. Traditional Music and Dance: Immerse yourself in Zimbabwean culture by experiencing traditional music and dance performances. Various cultural centers and festivals provide opportunities to witness captivating performances that showcase the country’s diverse music and dance traditions, including lively performances of traditional Mbira music and energetic tribal dances.

4. Casinos: For those who enjoy gaming and entertainment, Zimbabwe has several casinos offering a variety of games, from blackjack and roulette to slot machines and poker. Test your luck at popular casinos in Harare or the Victoria Falls area, and enjoy the excitement of a vibrant casino atmosphere.

5. Pub Culture: Zimbabwe has a lively pub scene, where locals and tourists come together to socialize over drinks and experience the friendly atmosphere. Enjoy a locally brewed beer, such as Castle Lager or Zambezi Lager, while engaging in lively conversations with friendly locals. Pubs often offer live sports screenings, quiz nights, or live band performances.

6. Night Markets: In some cities and towns, night markets pop up, offering a unique shopping and entertainment experience. Browse through stalls selling local crafts, clothing, jewelry, and food, while enjoying live music and performances by local artists. These markets provide a vibrant and festive ambiance that allows you to experience Zimbabwe’s creativity and cultural diversity.

7. Open-Air Concerts and Festivals: Zimbabwe hosts various music festivals and outdoor concerts throughout the year, featuring local and international artists. The Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) is a major highlight, offering a diverse program of music, dance, theater, and visual arts. Attending these events gives you the opportunity to enjoy high-quality performances in a lively and festive atmosphere.

When venturing out at night, it is always important to practice personal safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit areas, travel in groups when possible, and use reliable transportation options.

Whether you prefer live music, cultural performances, or simply enjoying the vibrant ambiance of a local pub, Zimbabwe offers a thriving nightlife and entertainment scene that will keep you entertained well into the night. So, embrace the rhythm and energy of Zimbabwe’s after-dark offerings and create unforgettable nocturnal memories.

Responsible Travel Tips

When visiting Zimbabwe, it is important to practice responsible travel to minimize your impact on the environment and support local communities. By following these tips, you can make a positive difference during your stay:

1. Respect Wildlife: When embarking on wildlife encounters, maintain a respectful distance from animals and follow the instructions of professional guides. Avoid making excessive noise or sudden movements that can disturb or stress the wildlife. Never feed or touch the animals, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and habitat.

2. Support Local Businesses: Choose to support local businesses, such as accommodations, restaurants, and shops, as they contribute directly to the local economy. Purchase souvenirs and crafts made by local artisans and craftspeople, encouraging sustainable livelihoods and preserving traditional craftsmanship.

3. Use Responsible Tour Operators: When booking tours and excursions, choose operators that prioritize responsible and sustainable practices. Look for companies that adhere to ethical wildlife interaction guidelines, support local communities, and minimize their environmental impact.

4. Minimize Plastic Waste: Help reduce plastic waste by carrying your own reusable water bottle. Refill it at accommodations or restaurants that offer filtered water. Avoid single-use plastic items and carry a reusable shopping bag for your purchases. Properly dispose of any waste in designated bins or take it with you to dispose of properly.

5. Conserve Water and Energy: Zimbabwe, like many African countries, experiences water scarcity at times. Practice water conservation by taking shorter showers and reusing towels. Switch off lights, air conditioning, and other electrical appliances when not in use to conserve energy and reduce your carbon footprint.

6. Respect Local Customs and Traditions: Familiarize yourself with local customs and cultural sensitivities to show respect for local traditions. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural communities. Ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals, especially in rural areas where cultural sensitivities may vary.

7. Follow Responsible Safari Practices: When on safari, stay on designated paths and roads to avoid damaging delicate ecosystems. Do not litter and dispose of any garbage properly. Use biodegradable or environmentally-friendly toiletries to minimize pollution in natural areas.

8. Support Conservation Efforts: Consider visiting conservation organizations and initiatives that work towards preservation and protection of Zimbabwe’s natural and cultural heritage. Learn about their efforts and, if possible, contribute through donations or volunteer opportunities.

Remember, responsible travel is about being mindful of your actions and their potential impact. By adopting these practices, you can help preserve Zimbabwe’s environment and culture for future generations to experience and enjoy.

Zimbabwe, with its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and incredible wildlife, offers a captivating and rewarding travel experience. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the abundant game reserves, there is something for every type of traveler. By immersing yourself in the stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality of Zimbabwe, you can create memories that will last a lifetime.

As you embark on your Zimbabwean adventure, it is essential to practice responsible and sustainable travel. Respect the environment, support local communities, and appreciate the cultural diversity that makes Zimbabwe unique. By following responsible travel practices, you can contribute positively to the preservation of Zimbabwe’s natural and cultural treasures.

Plan your trip by considering the best time to visit, understanding visa requirements, and exploring the wide range of accommodation options available. Indulge in traditional Zimbabwean cuisine, shop for unique crafts and souvenirs, and embrace the vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene.

Whether you choose to embark on a thrilling safari, explore ancient ruins, or simply immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the Zimbabwean people, the country promises a truly immersive and unforgettable journey. Take the time to connect with nature, appreciate the local culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.

So, pack your bags, open your mind and heart, and get ready to discover the wonders of Zimbabwe – a land of breathtaking beauty, rich heritage, and endless possibilities for exploration and adventure.

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• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Climate
• 4.3 Terrain
• 4.4 Culture
• 4.6 Economy
• 4.7 Holidays
• 4.8 Tourist information
• 5.1.1 Category A - no visa required
• 5.1.2 Category B - visa on arrival
• 5.1.3 Category C - visa before arrival
• 5.1.4 KAZA universal visa
• 5.2 By plane
• 5.5 By train
• 6.2 By taxi
• 6.3 By train
• 6.5 By hitchhiking
• 8.1 Urban life
• 11.1 Specialities
• 14.1 Police
• 14.2 Road safety
• 15 Stay healthy

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Zimbabwe\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in Southern Africa . For those looking to travel in Africa , Zimbabwe is a great starting place. It is rich in fauna (being home to the big five) and flora and has numerous ancient stone cities including the largest in Africa south of the Sahara, Great Zimbabwe . Its border with Zambia is formed by the Zambezi River which when in full flood drops as the world's largest curtain of falling water at the mighty Victoria Falls which is a major tourist attraction.

Zimbabwe has 4 large cities and several smaller ones.

• -17.829167 31.052222 1 Harare — the capital and the largest city in Zimbabwe, Harare is a vibrant city in a larger metropolitan province
• -20.166667 28.566667 2 Bulawayo — the second largest city with historic Victorian, Edwardian and midcentury architecture. It is the second city, both by population and economic activity
• -20.183333 32.866667 3 Chimanimani - Gateway to the Eastern Highlands
• -19.458 29.82 4 Gweru - Located in the centre of the country close to the Danangombe ruins. Also the capital of the Midlands Province
• -16.533333 28.8 5 Kariba — a lakeshore holiday resort on border with Zambia
• -20.074444 30.832778 6 Masvingo — named (meaning "ruins") after the nearby Great Zimbabwe National Monument
• -18.972778 32.669444 7 Mutare - the major city closest to the scenic Eastern Highlands and the Mozambique coast.

Other destinations

• -21.666667 31.666667 2 Gonarezhou National Park - Tucked in an isolated corner of Zimbabwe, much of the park remains pristine wilderness
• -20.27 30.933 3 Great Zimbabwe - The archaeological remains of an ancient city built of stone (the largest in Southern Africa), that was the capital of a vast empire known as the Munhumutapa Empire (also called Monomotapa Empire) covering the modern states of Zimbabwe (which took its name from this city) and Mozambique. The word 'Zimbabwe' means 'house of stone.'
• The Eastern Highlands include some of Zimbabwe's most beautiful views. The lush, cloud-hung mountains form the border with Mozambique . The regional capital is Mutare, and Chimanimani is a village popular with tourists and walkers.
• -16.533333 28.8 4 Kariba - The formidable Lake Kariba on the northern border of Zimbabwe is the result of a large damming project along the Zambezi River. Kariba is a popular tourist destination and affords visitors the opportunity to watch African wildlife in its almost natural environment. It is the biggest source of hydro-electric power for Zimbabwe. If you are travelling with friends or family consider hiring a houseboat for a few days to really experience everything the lake and the wildlife have to offer.
• The rocks are home to the dassie, a small rodent-type animal known more formally as Rock Hyrax, the skins of which are used to make a blanket treasured amongst the local populace. Also present in great numbers are the brightly coloured lizards common to Zimbabwe. The area has two large dams and many smaller ones that become the scene of family picnics, and angling competitions on weekends. A game park is home to herds of sable antelope, an animal not seen further south. The National Park boasts self catering chalets with amazing views as well as camping sights.
• Matobo is also the sight of Cecil John Rhodes' grave and some exquisite cave paintings.
• -17.065353 30.706956 6 Mutoroshanga Ethel Mine
• -17.35 30.2 7 Chinhoyi Caves

Stone cities were built in many locations in present-day Zimbabwe. The most impressive structures and the best known of these, Great Zimbabwe, were built in the 15th century, but people had been living on the site from about 400 AD. The Khami Ruins just outside Bulawayo are also a wonderful example.

The population was overwhelmingly made up of Shona speakers until the 19th century when the Nguni tribe (in 1839-40) of the Ndebele settled in what is now Matabeleland, and then in 1890, the territory came under the control of the British South Africa Company under charter from the British Government.

The United Kingdom annexed the land, then called Southern Rhodesia, from the British South Africa Company in 1923, when the country got its own government and Prime Minister. A 1961 constitution was formulated that favoured whites in power. In 1965, this white supremacist government unilaterally declared independence as Rhodesia, but the UK did not recognize the act and demanded voting rights for the black majority. UN sanctions and a guerrilla struggle finally led to free elections and independence (as Zimbabwe) in 1980.

Robert Mugabe became the first democratic leader of Zimbabwe. While initially lauded for his talk of reconciliation and his government's investment in education, healthcare and infrastructure, he slowly consolidated power from 1980-1987 as prime minister, and 1987-2017 as president. Starting in 2000, the government expropriated some very productive farms, which were in the hands of white Zimbabweans, as punishment for their support of the main opposition party, the MDC and handed them over to members of corrupt members of Mugabe's ZANU party, many of whom had no interest in farming, resulting in a drastic falloff in local food production. In 2005, he started a program which cleared slums, forcing hundreds of thousands of people onto the street.

Rigged elections and human rights abuses led to widespread emigration and international sanctions. Eventually, misrule and sanctions triggered massive, runaway inflation and a third of the population to choose to migrate. Elections were routinely marred by violence, directed by the ruling ZANU-PF party against opposition supporters. Following widespread protests, a power-sharing agreement was signed between President Mugabe and the leader of the main opposition party, Morgan Tsvangirai, in 2008. This briefly stabilized the political situation, but continued inflation led to the withdrawal of the Zimbabwe dollar from circulation in 2009; at the end, 100 trillion Zimbabwe dollars would not buy a loaf of bread. The defunct Zimbabwe dollar was replaced by a basket of currencies and ultimately adoption of the US dollar. The coalition government ended with Tsvangirai's 2013 electoral defeat in what was widely held to be a rigged election. By 2016 currency shortages were common, with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe directing banks to limit withdrawals to US$20-50/day or US$150/week. In November 2016 another toy currency ("bond notes") was introduced at par with the US dollar. US cash is king, however, and the bond notes often trade at a discount if they're accepted at all. Usability of credit cards is sporadic as businesses have trouble accessing hard currency to pay for imports.

Mr. Mugabe remained President until November 2017 when, at the age of 93 with serious questions about his health, he failed in a brazen attempt to continue the family stranglehold on power by sacking the country's vice president as a first step toward installing his wife Grace as a presidential candidate for the 2018 election cycle. This led to an enraged military deposing him; most of the original veterans of the 1980 uprising against Rhodesia turned against Mugabe, with his own ZANU-PF party forcing his resignation by calling a vote in the legislature to impeach him. Mugabe was subsequently replaced by Emmerson Mnangagwa, the vice president who he had sacked.

Mnangagwa remained President when he was elected in the 2018 general elections which like the 2013 elections were widely criticized for irregularities domestically and internationally. The current government has rolled back some of the excesses of Mugabe, and declared the country "open for business", as well as a proposal to re-join the Commonwealth, but his time in office has not been free of strife: in 2019, widespread protests that were held after the government announced a 130% rise in fuel prices were met by violence from the police and military. However, it is not all gloomy: the government has led the continent in its vaccine programme, besting its larger and wealthier peers.

Zimbabwe has an excellent subtropical highland climate that is moderated by altitude. The rainy season is in summer from November to March. Although there are recurring droughts, floods and severe storms are rare. Winter temperatures can drop below 5° Celsius whilst summers can be very hot, they rarely go over 32°C (90°F), with the exception of lower regions of the country such as the Zambezi valley.

Mostly high plateau with higher central plateau (high veld). There is a mountain range in east including the scenic Chimanimani mountains. The Lowveld is found in south eastern corner.

Elevation extremes   : lowest point: junction of the Runde and Save rivers 162 meters highest point: Inyangani 2,592 m

Owing to Zimbabwe’s ethnic diversity, varied geography, history and history of immigration, the country’s culture is rich and diverse. It has several regional variations, and despite being mostly unified by language and culture, some regions have distinct practices.

Music plays an important part in Zimbabwean identity. Styles like sungura , jazz , gospel, urban grooves and Zimdancehall are considered genuinely Zimbabwean. Sungura music is the national equivalent of roots music. Zimdancehall, which mixes several national styles with Jamaican dancehall and reggae and has become popular with the youth nationwide. New urban styles include dance music inspired by house music. Additionally, most Zimbabweans are familiar with and fans of Western popular music.

ZBC is the country's public broadcaster and somewhat analogous to the BBC in the UK. In addition, Zimbabweans increasingly have access to many other cable or satellite TV channels. Half of households have satellite TV, which is the most important source of information and entertainment for most Zimbabweans, however this trails the internet largely accessed via cell phone and accessible to most of the population, universally so in cities and among young people.

Zimbabwe is a mix of different cultures with their own beliefs and ceremonies, including the Shona, Zimbabwe's largest ethnic group. The Shona people have many sculptures and carvings which are made with the finest materials available. Shona music is also deservedly famous. Probably the best-known Shona instrument is the mbira dzavadzimu, sometimes misleadingly called the "thumb piano" by non-Africans but actually meaning "voice of the ancestors". Mbira music contains harmony and can be a kind of shifting kaleidoscope of counterpoint and lively polyrhythms. It is very tuneful, and the mbiras are often accompanied by a rattle called a hosho. Mbira music is central to Shona culture and identity and is traditionally considered a form of worship of the ancestors.

The second largest group in the country are the Ndebele people, who are distantly related to the Zulu of South Africa, whose language is mostly intelligible with Zulu and partially so with the Xhosa language of South Africa. Although their numbers have fallen since the end of white minority rule, Zimbabwe still retains a substantial white population (mostly in and around Harare), largely of British descent, with notable minorities of Dutch, Portuguese, Jewish and Greek extraction. Other groups include Asians, coloureds (mixed race people) and immigrants from Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, the Congo and their descendants, the majority of whom have assimilated into Zimbabwean society.

Zimbabwe also has a large diaspora mostly in South Africa, the UK, Australia, Canada, the US, Ireland and New Zealand, so don't be surprised if you run into a 'diasporan' with a Western accent and outlook during your visit, as they have become significant investors and visitors within the country's tourism and real estate sectors.

In general, Zimbabweans are a warm, easy going, open minded people. Friendship, family and hospitality are highly prized among Zimbos, and both family connections and social interactions are valued highly. To people they have met, or at least know by name, Zimbabweans are usually polite, friendly and sometimes quite generous. Zimbabweans are reputedly one of the most hospitable people in the world and foreigners are usually treated with respect and hospitality.

Whereas the roots of Zimbabwean culture are African and proudly so, Zimbabwe is still a nation that is heavily influenced by the United Kingdom, and the middle class often look to London as a source of inspiration, especially given the poor and corrupt leadership in the country. Many Zimbabweans also display an ambivalent attitude to South Africa which increasingly dominates Zimbabwe's economy and whose ruling class is seen as enabling the corrupt Mnagagwa government.

Zimbabweans speak English natively and have the highest literacy rate in Africa. That said visitors will receive a very warm welcome if they try to start conversations in Shona or Ndebele. Since the beginning of the 21st century, Zimbabwe has faced an increasing wave of immigration from China, Congo, Malawi and Mozambique as well as an exodus of many residents to the UK, South Africa, Canada and Australia.

Once Africa's fastest growing economy and one of its most dynamic, with a large and confident middle class, especially by developing country standards, since 2000 Zimbabwe has undergone a dramatic economic collapse and since 2010 an uneven and sometimes volatile recovery.

There had been a few signs of improvement since the formation the Mnagagwa government in 2018, but the Zimbabwean economy remained plagued by high unemployment, deindustrialisation and a growing divide between a well connected and affluent elite and the rest of the population. The new government has claimed Zimbabwe 'is open for business' and though consumer goods are now widely available and certain industries have recovered (real estate, tourism and construction), the country lags behind its neighbors to the south, a far cry from its post independence heyday.

A rebound in mineral prices, real estate and tourism and a continent-leading vaccine programme, allowed GDP to rebound by more than 5% in the 2020 according to the World Bank, but Zimbabwe remains a lower middle income country with a corrupt and affluent elite, a stretched middle class and a large unemployed youth population. Gross domestic product is lower than it was in 2000; with subsequent recovery slow and uneven. That said, the country still has decent infrastructure, especially for tourism (though upkeep can be very inconsistent), a large diaspora that invests in and remains committed to improving their home country and recent government efforts that made it easier to invest in tourism and to make it a more friendly and accessible destination.

• 1 January : New Year's Day
• 21 February : National Youth Day or Robert Mugabe Youth Day
• 18 April : Independence Day
• 1 May - Workers Day
• 25 May - Africa Day
• 22 December - Unity Day
• 25 December - Christmas
• 26 December - Boxing Day

In Zimbabwe, if a holiday falls on Sunday, the next day (Monday) will automatically be observed as public day. Hence, it will be a holiday.

Tourist information

• Zimbabwe Tourism Authority website

Entry requirements

Category a - no visa required.

Passport holders of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Zimbabwe for up to 3 months (unless otherwise noted): Angola , Antigua and Barbuda , Aruba , Bahamas , Barbados , Belize , Botswana , Cayman Islands , Cyprus , DR Congo , Eswatini , Fiji , Ghana , Grenada , Hong Kong (6 months), Jamaica , Kenya , Kiribati , Lesotho , Madagascar , Malaysia , Malawi , Maldives , Malta , Mauritius , Montserrat , Mozambique (30 days), Namibia , Nauru , Saint Kitts and Nevis , Saint Lucia , Saint Vincent and the Grenadines , Samoa , Seychelles , Singapore , Solomon Islands , South Africa , Tanzania , Tonga , Trinidad and Tobago , Turks and Caicos Islands , Tuvalu , Uganda , Vanuatu and Zambia .

Category B - visa on arrival

Passport holders of the following are eligible to get a visa on arrival to enter Zimbabwe for up to 3 months (for purpose of tourism) or for up to 30 days (for purpose of business): Albania , Algeria , Andorra , Argentina , Armenia , Australia , Austria , Azerbaijan , Bahrain , Belarus , Belgium , Bermuda , Bhutan , Bosnia and Herzegovina , Brazil , British Virgin Islands , Brunei , Bulgaria , Burundi , Canada , Cape Verde , Chile , China (PRC) , Comoros , Costa Rica , Croatia , Cuba , Czech Republic , Denmark , Dominican Republic , Ecuador , Egypt , El Salvador , Equatorial Guinea , Estonia , Ethiopia , Finland , France , Georgia , Germany , Greece , Guatemala , Guyana , Haiti , Honduras , Hungary , Iceland , India , Indonesia , Iran , Ireland , Israel , Italy , Japan , Kazakhstan , Kuwait , Kyrgyzstan , Latvia , Liechtenstein , Lithuania , Luxembourg , Macao , Marshall Islands , Mexico , Micronesia , Moldova , Monaco , Netherlands , New Zealand , Nicaragua , Norway , Palau , Palestine , Panama , Papua New Guinea , Paraguay , Peru , Poland , Portugal , Romania , Russia , Rwanda , San Marino , Sao Tome and Principe , Senegal , Serbia , Slovakia , Slovenia , South Korea , Spain , Suriname , Sweden , Switzerland , Tajikistan , Turkey , Turkmenistan , Ukraine , United Arab Emirates , United Kingdom , United States , Uruguay , Uzbekistan , Vatican City and Venezuela .

Visa fees as of July 2019 at the port of entry for Category B nationals are as follows: US$30 (single entry), US$45 (double entry), US$55 (multiple entry). Cash only. A valid passport, travel itinerary, and return or onward journey ticket must be presented. Note that Canadian citizens are only able to obtain single entry visas on arrival at a cost of US$75, whilst British and Irish citizens pay higher fees for a Zimbabwe visa on arrival (US$55 for single entry and US$70 for double entry).

Category C - visa before arrival

Passport holders of other countries must get a visa prior to arrival to Zimbabwe.

Category C citizens may apply for a visa (for business, holiday, conferencing or transit) online through the eVisa system of the Zimbabwe Department of Immigration . Visa fee can be paid online or on arrival. It takes an average of two working days to obtain an e-Visa, however the period may vary due to a number of factors. The e-Visa is valid for three months from the date of issue.

Visas can be obtained at Zimbabwean embassies/consulates. The fees for a visa vary between US$30 and 180 and depend on the applicant's nationality.

You might be able to apply for a Zimbabwean visa at a British embassy, high commission or consulate in the country where you legally reside if there is no Zimbabwean diplomatic post. For example, the British embassy in Amman accepts Zimbabwean visa applications (this list is not exhaustive). British diplomatic posts charge £50 to process a Zimbabwean visa application and an extra £70 if the authorities in Zimbabwe require the visa application to be referred to them. The authorities in Zimbabwe can also decide to charge an additional fee if they correspond with you directly.

KAZA universal visa

Zimbabwe and Zambia introduced a universal visa on 28 November 2014 called KAZA Visa . This visa can be obtained on arrival and is valid for both countries for visits up to 30 days while remaining within Zambia and Zimbabwe (including day trips to Chobe National Park in Botswana at Kazungula). The fee is US$50 and is available at the following border crossings in Zambia: Livingstone Airport, Lusaka Airport, Kazungula Land Border (border with Botswana) and Victoria Falls Land Border; in Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls Airport, Harare Airport, Kazungula Land Border (border with Botswana) and Victoria Falls Land Border.

Eligible countries are: Andorra , Argentina , Australia , Austria , Belarus , Belgium , Bosnia and Herzegovina , Brazil , Brunei , Burundi , Canada , Cape Verde , Comoros , Croatia , Cuba , Czech Republic , Denmark , Estonia , Finland , France , Georgia , Germany , Greece , Haiti , Hungary , Iceland , Israel , Italy , Japan , Kazakhstan , Latvia , Liechtenstein , Lithuania , Luxembourg , Marshall Islands , Moldova , Monaco , Netherlands , New Zealand , Norway , Poland , Portugal , Russia , Rwanda , Samoa , Sao Tome and Principe , Serbia , Slovakia , Slovenia , South Korea , Spain , Sweden , Switzerland , Turkey , Ukraine , United Arab Emirates , United Kingdom , United States and Uruguay .

Harare International Airport has a number of international flights, mainly to other African countries.

When coming from Europe, you can fly via Johannesburg, Nairobi, Dubai, Addis Ababa, or Cairo.

From South Africa you can fly with South African Airways , Airlink , British Airways, or Air Zimbabwe.

Emirates Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Egypt Air fly to Harare from Europe.

SAA operates to quite a few European and African airports and has flights from Harare, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls to Johannesburg ( South Africa ). Air Botswana has flights from Harare and Victoria Falls to Gaborone. Malawi Airlines has flights from Harare to Lilongwe. British Airways flies from Harare via Johannesburg to Heathrow.

Victoria Falls airport has daily service by South African Airways, South African Airlink and British Airways to and from Johannesburg.

Bulawayo also has an international airport, with flights from Johannesburg operated by SAA and Air Zimbabwe.

For domestic flights inside Zimbabwe, Harare to Victoria Falls there is Air Zimbabwe and Fly Africa. Air Zimbabwe also fly from Harare to Bulawayo and Harare to Kariba.

• Low-cost airline Fastjet Zimbabwe has one-way domestic fares from US$20, and international fares from US$50. Fastjet fly from Harare to Victoria Falls, Bulawayo. Johannesburg, Cape Town, Lusaka, Nairobi, and Dar es Salaam.

There is also low-cost airline Fly Africa which goes from Victoria Falls to Johannesburg, Harare to Johannesburg, and Victoria Falls to Harare.

Zimbabwe is accessible by road from the countries that surround it. Contrary to past scenarios, the fuel situation has improved with prices now being quoted in US dollars. As fuel has to be imported from either Mozambique or South Africa, you can expect to pay more per litre than you would in most other Southern African countries.

Roads in Zimbabwe vary significantly, from newly tarred and refurbished to completely dilapidated or untarred, and due caution should be taken when driving, especially at night, and in particular, during the holiday season when there are more vehicles on the road. In general major thoroughfares and affluent areas have better roads than poorer or rural regions. Potholes are a common occurrence so always drive with caution. When in doubt always ask for local advice.

Regular deluxe bus services operate from Johannesburg to Harare. A number of buses also travel from Johannesburg to Bulawayo. Greyhound drives to both destinations. Tickets can be obtained directly from Greyhound or through the Computicket website.

Several bus companies also operate direct buses from Harare to Blantyre , Malawi and Pretoria and Johannesburg

No public transport exists from Victoria Falls directly to Botswana - a taxi to the border will cost around USD40, or some hotels in Vic Falls can arrange transfers.

National Railways of Zimbabwe service was suspended during the Covid-19 pandemic, and remains suspended as of July 2024.

Additionally, the private company Rovos Rail runs a luxurious excursion train from Pretoria , South Africa to Victoria Falls several times per month. Matching the luxury, prices are extravagant with journeys costing thousand of dollars.

Between cities, you travel using luxury coaches like Pathfinder and Citilink . You can also get decent buses from RoadPort in Harare to other major cities including those in neighbouring countries like Johannesburg, Lusaka, Lilongwe.

Minibus taxis are available for intra-city transport, and are relatively inexpensive by European standards. They provide a cheap, though a not necessarily comfortable way of seeing the true Zimbabwe.

The taxi app in Zimbabwe is called Vaya, but you will need a Zimbabwean phone number to use it. Its exchange rate is fixed at Z$1 to US$1, so you will want to pay in Zimbabwean dollars (RTGS).

Traffic is the biggest danger because of the poor condition of cars and the driving culture. Driving after dark is not recommended, especially outside cities.

Car hijackings are possible. At traffic lights, when refuelling and otherwise when stopping your car, be alert for anyone approaching. When driving, always keep doors locked and windows closed. Be prepared for occasional fuel supply problems. Motorists should be prepared by buying an extra can of fuel.

The condition of the roads in Zimbabwe seems to have improved considerably since the stabilization of the economy. Roads between Victoria Falls and Bulawayo, Bulawayo and Masvingo (Great Zimbabwe) and Masvingo and Mutare are all in relatively good condition. The highway between Plumtree and Mutare (passing through Bulawayo and Harare in between) is being resurfaced.

Almost no fuel station in Zimbabwe takes credit cards. Also road blocks are common but usually police just want to see your driver's licence and your Temporary Import Permit (TIP). Police can fine you if you do not have reflective reflectors on your car, red hazard triangles in your boot, a spare tire, or a fire extinguisher, so be sure to carry those items if you want to avoid a fine.

By hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is also a viable option, but tourists need to take care with whom they accept lifts from; hijackings and robberies of hitchhikers, especially within Harare, have been on the increase in the last few years. Be sure to bring some money along, as drivers very often expect some sort of fee to be paid up front.

Zimbabwe has 16 official languages though in practice English, Shona and Sindebele/Ndebele are by far the most spoken. English, besides being traditionally used for official business, serves as a lingua franca between Zimbabweans of different ethnicities and will be the most useful for travelling throughout the country, though any attempts to speak the local language will greatly endear you to the locals or at the very least earn you a few laughs.

Speakers of non-native languages tend to be few and far in between and are mostly Portuguese by people with roots in Mozambique, Angola or Portugal or French largely spoken by Congolese migrants in parts of Harare and Bulawayo.

For many visitors, Zimbabwe as a country has the same appeal as the natural landscapes for which it's famous.

Zim's large cities all bustle with life. The famous capital, Harare , is the one of Africa's most pleasant cities. It's a city of contrasts, there's expensive cosmopolitan boutiques, buzzing nightlife and delicious ethnic cuisine. However, it's the classic, unpolished side of the city that makes it a charming destination. The central colorful neighbourhoods where crazy traffic sounds drown out distant dance tunes, the pleasant street-cafés and garden restaurants, busy outdoor markets and historic colonial architecture. Avondale and Mount Pleasant are pleasant, older neighbourhoods of the city and a good place to indulge in the city vibe of cafés, street markets, and antique markets in a garden suburban setting. The atmosphere is perhaps Harare's biggest attraction, but some of the main sights include the National Gallery of Art and the Museum of Human Sciences.

Zimbabwe's other cities share the energetic buzz of Harare, but have a distinct character of their own. Bulawayo is a lively yet laid-back city, characterized by broad avenues and Victorian architecture. It's famous as a 'heritage city' far beyond the borders of Zimbabwe and a perfect starting point for the country's game parks to the north. In the east, Mutare , is well known for its scenic setting and is also a good base for hiking and other outdoor activities in the Eastern Highlands. The city of Gweru has shaken off its agricultural roots and is increasingly a vibrant university city. Masvingo, hosts classic Victorian architecture and serves as the gateway to exploring the Great Zimbabwe ruins

Zimbabweans love sports and are justifiably proud of their country's achievements and how they have constantly punched above their weight on the international stage. The main five sports are: Association football, Rugby Union, Cricket, tennis and Golf. All of these sports attract a widespread following, both at matches themselves and on television; and it is very common to find televised coverage of them shown in pubs, hotels and bars. There are popular grounds to all these sports around the country: Rufaro (Harare), Bourbourfields (Bulawayo), National Sports stadium (Harare) and Ascot (Gweru) for football, Harare Sports Club (Harare), Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo) and Alexandra (Harare) for cricket, Police Grounds (Harare), Old Hararians (Harare) and Hartsfield (Bulawayo) for rugby, as well as the Royal Harare Golf Club for golf.

• Football means association football or soccer. It is by far the most popular spectator sport, especially with the working class and is very widely played across the country at amateur and professional levels, with the highest competition being the Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League and the best talent moving on to play in European leagues. Dynamos (nicknamed the Glamour Boys for their dazzling 'carpet soccer' are the toast of middle class Harare), CAPS United (has a more working class fanbase) and Highlanders ( the historic Bulawayo team) are the most supported teams in the country, with a derby between either side the highlight of the season.
• Rugby is invariably rugby union has 15 players per team, and is popular with the middle classes. While the Zimbabwean national team has not been to the World Cup in two decades, they have produced countless world class players many who've gone on to glittering careers abroad. The country's highest domestic team, the Zimbabwe Academy team, plays in South Africa's Currie Cup. Old Georgians and Old Hararians are two of the countries most prestigious clubs, the latter noted for their exciting 'champagne rugby' inspired by the passing French style of play. That said the standard of play is high up to the high school level and high school games are popular and cheap weekend affairs
• Cricket is played only in the summer, and tends to be most popular in the cities. Zimbabwe is a highly competitive, if often underdog side. Visiting tours by Australia, New Zealand, India and South Africa are considered the highlight of the summer sporting season and are well worth a trip to one of the country's fine cricket ovals
• Zimbabwe has punched above its weight in tennis , particularly in doubles and at the Davis Cup, often the only African nation in the top tier division. Tennis is often played on hard court though grass courts are present in affluent areas like Borrowdale. Davis Cup games are the most popular and attract enthusiastic crowds. In golf , Zimbabwe forms part of the Sunshine tour with its neighbors, the third most prestigious after the PGA and European tours. The country has produced numerous golfers such as Nick Price and Mark McNulty and plenty of excellent golf courses are found in or near the larger cities
• Zimbabwe is also a respected competitor in equestrian activities, and several major events in the racing calendar are held at various venues. The most prestigious events on the horse racing calendar include the OK Grand Challenge and the Castle Tankard both held in Harare in the autumn and winter.
• Bungee jumping at Victoria Falls. An incredible experience off the Victoria Falls bridge over the mighty Zambezi - 111 metres of pure adrenaline.
• Walk with the lions, swim with the elephants, ride a horse. and enjoy other game activities at Antelope Park near Gweru, between Harare and Bulawayo.
• An Authentic African Safari. Walking, canoeing or on a game drive in Hwange National Park or Mana Pools with African Bush Camps.
• Harare International Festival of Arts . (HIFA), every year in Harare (end of April) with some extension in Bulawayo. Music, Theater, and other shows sponsored by foreign embassies, it features top international and local artists,and also brings in town a great artcraft market.
• Diving : The only site accessible to recreational divers is Mutoroshanga Ethel Mine, a flooded asbestos quarry 120 km by road from Harare. Good visibility and beautiful surroundings. You need technical cave-diving skills to venture into Chinhoyi Caves, 120 km from Harare. The caves are mostly water-filled, and are more than 120 m deep. The full cave system has not yet been explored. No diving infrastructure, this is an expedition where you take everything.
• The excellent climate, combined with investments in the golfing infrastructure, has turned the country into a golfing haven . Fourteen of Zimbabwe's courses are rated in the top 100 best in Africa. Zimbabwe is also a great and cheap location to learn the game and perfect technique. Many resorts and clubs offer classes with rising players. Courses can satisfy the most demanding golfer, while newcomers won't be intimidated, unless they find the beautiful landscapes and stunning vistas distracting to their game. Though Zimbabwe has long punched above its weight in the golf world, the average local has mixed feelings about golf courses, namely due to the huge amounts of water required to maintain them but appreciate the revenue they generate.
• The countryside also offers a great deal of possibilities, although you will have to incite the travel guide's advice a little more than usual, as they tend to just sell safaris and trips to Victoria Falls. Cycling through the mountainous terrain of Vumba or white-water rafting in the affluents of the Zambezi is an exhilirating experience.

From June 2019 to April 2024, the legal tender in Zimbabwe was the new “Zimbabwe dollar” (Z$, ISO code ZWL), also known as the "Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) dollar", "Zim dollar" and the "Zollar". The value of the currency was volatile. In March 2024, annual inflation was running at 55%. However, the US dollar is widely used.

On April 8, 2024, Zimbabwe introduced a new currency, named "Zimbabwe Gold" (ZiG) . Coins of the ZiG are issued in denominations of 1 ⁄ 10 , 1 ⁄ 4 , 1 ⁄ 2 , 1, 2 and 5 ZiG. Banknotes of the ZiG are issued in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100 and 200 ZiG. Zimbabwe dollars can be exchanged at banks for Zimbabwe Gold until 29 April 2024.

The ZiG began to fall in value soon after it was issued, and the black market rate as of 16 April was 20 ZiG = US$1.

Most retailers and service providers are trading their products in U.S. dollars or pegging their prices in Zimbabwe currency using U.S. dollar black market rates. Some retailers and public transport operators no longer accept denominations lower than the Zimbabwe dollar coin. Wikivoyage articles generally quote prices in U.S. dollars.

There are many ATMs which take Visa and MasterCard. As of at least March 2023, you will be able to withdraw money from ATMs, so bringing cash is no longer necessary. Everyone from street vendors to taxi drivers to supermarkets, restaurants, and activity operators operate in USD so there is no need to obtain Zimbabwean dollars. ATMs usually deliver crisp US$100 notes which then require changing into smaller denominations at stores and can sometimes be a challenge. Smaller USD notes are most useful and US$1 are difficult to find but the most used. Anything larger is unlikely to be accepted. If receiving change of less than US$1, you will receive Zimbabwean dollars.

Many banks do not have enough bank notes due to a shortage of paper, so will only change U.S. dollars for Ecocash. Registering for Ecocash is recommended. You will need your ID to buy an EcoNet SIM card at EcoNet shops or other small phone shops. You can then register for EcoCash, but you will need to produce your ID again to activate your account. You can then load your account at a bank, and spend money in most shops using your PIN.

A growing number of businesses accept Visa and MasterCard in Zimbabwe, however shop workers are often resistant to use them. Be careful what currency your card is charged in.

Credit cards

Credit and debit cards are used less commonly than in the United States or Europe. Many businesses in the city accept them and you can expect any major chain — supermarkets, fast food restaurants, clothing stores, etc. — to also accept them. The standard 10% tip in restaurant is often expected to be paid in cash, even when you pay the bill by credit or debit card. Bear in mind, tipping is not expected and may only apply to an establishment that does not already add a service charge.

If you use a debit or credit card, the checkout operator in places like supermarkets will often require you to present your card and a form of identification such as a drivers' licence. Present both at checkout and with confidence. A lack of confidence will lead to a request for your passport as identification.

PIN cards have become the most common and should be accepted anywhere, as well as magnetic band cards. PINs should be accepted but if not, the shop attendant will ask you to sign the invoice. Contactless credit cards are not commonly accepted as of Nov 2020.

Traveller's checks

They are rarely used and may be difficult to exchange, but some banks and exchanges may accept them . Also, Western Union will cash them with proper identification.

There is no obligation to tip in Zimbabwe although any tip is welcome, given the volatile economy. Some nicer restaurants will add a service charge (10 percent). In these cases tipping is not expected. Sometimes rounding up or telling them to "keep the change" is enough on small checks, deliveries, petrol attendants, etc. Leaving at least a 10% tip is considered kind and polite at restaurants, cafes, hotels, beauty parlors, barbers, ushers and car-washes. Tipping bartenders is not customary but will be greatly appreciated. Leaving no tip when feeling unsatisfied is not an uncommon gesture, and will not likely make much of an impression. Taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped.

Service fees are included in most upscale hotels and restaurants, usually around 10%. By law it is mandatory that this item is represented in the same text size as the rest of the menu items.

Domestically produced things are very cheap (especially labour-intensive things), and curios are especially well made. However, for a tourist drinking Coke and eating pizza, prices are not that much lower than in South Africa.

For a sample of what Zimbabweans eat (in some form, nearly every day), ask for "sadza and stew/relish." The stew part will be familiar, served over a large portion of sadza - a thick ground corn paste (vaguely like polenta and the consistency of thick mashed potatoes) that locals eat at for lunch and supper. It's inexpensive, quite tasty and very filling. There is a plethora of good Zimbabwean food- "Mbambaira" or sweet potatoes, "chibage" corn on the cob, for example. Fruits indigenous to the country like "masawu" for example. For foreigners, especially from the West, Zimbabwean meat is very tasty, especially the beef, because of animals are raised and fed on a natural diet, mostly of grass.

Food options in the cities tend to follow western conventions and British visitors in particular will find themselves right at home as numerous British staples - from pork pies, Cornish pasties and an English breakfast to tea with milk and baked beans- are a hallmark of Zimbabwean cuisine. Fast food is increasingly popular with Nando's and KFC available in most urban areas as well as local brands like Chicken Inn and Wimpy.

Specialities

Specialities worth sampling include peri-peri chicken , a Portuguese/Mozambican influence, meat pies (which make an excellent portable, inexpensive, and delicious snack or lunch and can be found easily at many supermarkets and bakeries.), samosas (Indian origin) bream , sadza nedovi (sadza with vegetables cooked in a peanut sauce), boerewors (spicy farmer sausages) and vetkoek (a delicious fried pastry), both South African in origin as the names suggest.

Zimbabwe has traditionally been a cattle rearing country, particularly in the south and west, and therefore features excellent (and affordable) beef. The braai is a typical Southern African barbeque that crosses all classes and ethnicities, consisting of a variety of grilled meats (steaks, beef short ribs, sausage, chuck and sometimes offal) and a peri peri or other sauce over wood fire grill. Drinks are served and it is a great way to socialise and meet new people. As in many countries with a similar meat culture, men tend to dominate the grilling, though women and children are always made to feel welcome.

Additionally, the restaurant and coffee-shop scene in Harare and Bulawayo are great by continental standards, with a wide variety of places and cuisines to choose from.

A variety of domestic brews are made in Zimbabwe, mainly lagers with a few milk stouts. You may even want to try "Chibuku" a local brew popular among working class men that's based on a traditional beer recipe made from sorghum and/or maize (corn). It is generally sold in a 2-litre plastic bottle called a 'skud' or a more popular variety called "Chibuku Super" that comes in a disposable 1.25 litre plastic container and costs US$1. As with all alcohol, it's definitely an acquired taste! A more palatable beer is the pilsner like, Zambezi lager which is very refreshing on a hot day.

Quality wines at restaurants and liquor stores tend to be South African or European in origin, though there are a few brands worth sampling, the standout being the Western Cape produced, Kumusha Wines , as well as the more established, Mukuyu. The South African creamy liqueur, Amarula, is a common delight. A common tradition across Southern Africa, is the Sundowner , a light aperitive style cocktail consumed at sunset just before dinner. It is usually fizzy, sparkling or citrus based, similar to a spritz in Europe

Non-alcoholic drinks

Like the UK, tea is widely drunk across Zimbabwe, especially at breakfast or during work lunch breaks. Most people drink white tea (hot black tea with milk), and some with sugar or honey. Tanganda is a cheap and common brand popular with working class residents. Finer restaurants, hotels and cafés sell a range of different teas, Earl Grey and Rooibos being popular blends, but by no means the only one. Herbal teas are available in affluent parts of town, and lemon may also be offered as an alternative to milk upon request.

Coffee is historically less popular in Zimbabwe but is growing in popularity, and best experienced at the many independent cafes in Harare, Bulawayo or touristy regions like the Eastern Highlands. Alternatively South African chains like Mugg & Bean are increasingly popular with young people.

In Zimbabwe, Mazoe orange crush (pronounced "mazo-way", roughly) is highly regarded and has near legendary status. It is a condensed orange concentrate drink of a vivid orange colour, meant to be diluted with water, and is a prized by expats and Zimbabweans alike. Whilst anywhere selling drinks in Zimbabwe is highly likely to have Mazoe, it can be increasingly found at specialty and expat stores in South Africa, Canada, Auatralia and the UK.

An acquired taste, but worth it, are Schweppes lemonade, ginger beer and cream soda (not too dissimilar to US Root beer), which are locally produced and popular summertime beverages and can be obtained in large supermarkets.

Mineral waters can vary from expensive imported brands, through locally bottled waters, which are of a high standard and much more affordable. When travelling be sure to stock up on bottled water when it is available, as clean drinking water may not be available in remote parts of the country.

Zimbabwe has a great number of tourist facilities, and offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to guest houses, lodges, backpacker hostels and safari camps for all budgets.

For nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those seeking a respite from the fast-paced world, there are many "lodges" in serene and peaceful environments, usually on the fridges of the city or near game reserves, surrounded by many species of native and migrating birds, which offer a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature.

If you are on a safari tour there are tented camps, chalets and camping sites in most of the safari areas.

Most places have a backpacker hostel with prices from US$10 a night.

Generally, Zimbabwe has a much lower crime rate than its neighbors, and Zimbabweans are well known for their unrivaled hospitality.

Most crime that does occur is opportunistic in nature and travelers should take care with their personal belongings and follow local advice. It really is just a matter of common sense, which you should exercise no matter where you are.

Shortages of fuel and water can occur in parts of the country, so keep extra supplies with you in case they are unavailable for an extended period. Water and electricity supplies are frequently disrupted, so most homes in the cities are equipped with boreholes, solar power or generators.

Whilst many locals will politely inquire about you and your country, remember, most Zimbabweans are still sensitive to foreigners' opinions of their country and its politicians, mostly due to years of negative press. In general, it is a wise idea to avoid political discussions or discussions pertaining to opinions of political leaders.

Policing in Zimbabwe has improved markedly since the Mugabe era. On the whole, Zimbabwean police officers are professional and polite to tourists, but they are underpaid, which can lead to incidents of corruption or bribery. They are generally less aggressive than law enforcement agencies in many other nearby countries, particularly South Africa; however, this does not apply to political demonstrations or other politically motivated investigations, which have elicited very strong responses in the past. Tourists, expats and outsiders are strongly discouraged from attending political rallies or events. Bribery can occur at police checkpoints or border control but it is important to be firm and politely decline, as this behavior is not tolerated by senior authorities and harassment of tourists is considered a serious offence.

With local exceptions, such as airports, and national events, such as Independence Day parades, the vast majority of police officers in Zimbabwe do not carry firearms, and the only police officers allowed to carry firearms are those from specialist firearms units.

Most officers will only speak English, Shona or Ndebele, though they will attempt to find an interpreter for people who can't understand questioning in English. You have the legal right to silence when arrested and to have an interpreter at the police station.

Police officers in Zimbabwe usually wear dark blue uniforms, although some wear tan or khaki uniforms. Front-line police (in uniform) are also generally required to have shoulder numbers. Most police are also required to carry a warrant card, and should under reasonable circumstances be willing to produce it, to confirm their authority.

Private security guards do not generally have any "police-style" powers at all. There are a small number of non-police officials who have limited enforcement powers relating to specific local areas, or certain activities such as on-street parking or accessing some government buildings.

Road safety

Although jaywalking is not an offence in Zimbabwe and common in the larger cities, crossing a road other than at a designated crossing should be taken with care. A number of traffic light crossings have a push button to change the 'man' from red to green. Pedestrians have right of way on zebra crossings, that are identified by white stripes on the road and yellow flashing lights. It is advisable to make eye contact with the driver before stepping into the road. Certain roads, such as the President's residence, prohibit pedestrians (and cyclists), this is often marked with signs in clearly visible locations.

Stay healthy

Do your research about what is available. Take all medications that you need along with you. There are a number of private hospitals in the major cities that are very accessible.

HIV/AIDS infection rate in Zimbabwe is the 5th highest in the world at around 13% infected. Though rates have declined from their peak in the 2000s, you should never have unprotected sex . If you form a serious relationship, consider both getting an HIV test before taking things further.

Malaria is prevalent in lower regions of the country in the summertime, so unless you are going to stay entirely within Harare, Bulawayo or highland regions, anti-malarial drugs are advised. Drugs reduce the severity of the disease but don't prevent infection, so also consider precautions such as:

• sleeping under a mosquito net (lightweight travel nets are comparatively cool to use)
• using mosquito repellent on the skin or burning mosquito coils
• wearing long-sleeved clothing and long trousers, particularly in the evening

Bilharzia is present in some lakes. Ask locally before swimming.

Snakes are common in the bush, and most bites are on the foot or lower leg. If walking, particularly in long grass, wear proper boots and either long, loose trousers or thick, concertinaed hiking socks. Shake out boots and shoes in the morning, in case you have a guest. These precautions also reduce the chance of scorpion sting. If you do get bitten or stung, stay calm . Try to identify the exact culprit, but get to medical assistance as rapidly as you can without undue exertion. Many bites and stings can be dangerous, so it is safer to seek treatment, which is very effective these days.

Tap water , as a source of potable water, in general, should be boiled prior to consumption. Bottled water is also available.

Visitors to Zimbabwe will find Zimbabweans incredibly welcoming, friendly, and hospitable. Many will go out of their way to help you and ensure you have a good time. You can freely approach the locals for advice and you can ask them specific directions to get somewhere.

As is the case throughout Africa , respect for elders is very important and it is customary to use honorifics with people you're not well acquainted with. Try not to ignore, contradict, or publicly disagree with someone older than you or in a position of authority.

In smaller towns and villages, especially on the road, if you walk past somebody it is customary to exchange pleasantries. They may also ask you "how are you", or another similar variation, is usually standard. A simple hello or "how are you?" or "have a nice day" will suffice. Learning similar phrases in Shona or Ndebele will go a long way with older and more rural inhabitants as well.

Unlike many other African nations, Zimbabweans tend to be punctual and on time to events, especially for business, however, given the importance of public transportation, it's not uncommon to sometimes be a few minutes late to something. A simple apology or acknowledgement of one's tardiness is generally acceptable however, extreme lateness is considered rude and a waste of the other parties' time.

Zimbabwe is a multicultural country. Do not make assumptions based on ethnicity or peoples' appearance. Outward displays of racism, discrimination or sexism, will be met with hostility or even land you in trouble with the law. Surprised comments at the presence of white or Asian Zimbabweans will be seen as incredibly ignorant.

Zimbabwean people are generally easy going and have a live and let live attitude and will respect your privacy and personal space . That said it is important to greet and acknowledge others when entering a space.

When shaking hands or handing anything valuable to someone in more rural areas, it is polite to support the right forearm with the left hand (or vice versa), to signify the "weight" of the gift or honour. In practice this often means just touching the forearm, or even gesturing towards it. Outsiders are generally not expected to know local etiquette, a firm polite handshake is good enough, though attempts at such will be well appreciated

Discussions about politics are generally avoided by locals . Opinions between individuals vary significantly, and while few Zimbabweans miss the volatility of the past few decades, few will voluntarily offer their opinions publicly and visitors are advised to do the same. Most Zimbabwean people of moderate views have grown accustomed to simply avoiding the topic in polite conversation, especially as speaking out against the government could attract harassment by the police and supporters of the government.

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Zimbabwe Travel Guide: A World Of Wonders!

Be ready for zimbabwe's off-the-beaten-path wildlife experience and unleash your adventurous side in victoria falls.

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ZIMBABWE NATIONAL PARKS VISITED

Zimbabwe Travel Guide

Zimbabwe is an iconic country in Southern Africa that is surrounded by 4 African countries: South Africa , Botswana, Zambia, and Mozambique. With the majestic Victoria Falls as Zimbabwe's number one tourist attraction, it's the adventure capital of the African continent with activities like bungee jumping from Victoria Falls Bridge, zip-lining, micro flights, helicopter flights, and much more.

The Zambezi river forms the natural boundary with Zambia. When the Zambezi is in full flood you can witness the world's largest curtain of falling water at 'Vic Falls', a great experience not to be missed.

Apart from adventure, you can also find amazingly diverse landscapes, lush mountains, and off-the-beaten-path wildlife experiences in amazing national parks where you can spot the Big Five (leopard, lion, rhino, elephant, and buffalo), such as Mana Pools, Hwange National Park, Matusadona, Matobo Hills, and Lake Kariba.

Zimbabwe has a troubled and politically unstable past. It was once the Bread Basket of Africa, and now one of the poorest countries in the world. Despite the situation, the Zimbabweans are very warm, welcoming, and hopeful for what the future might hold. There is no reason to not travel to Zimbabwe, and you should add it to your Africa bucket list. It's the colonial heart of Africa and home to the largest ruins in all of Africa. Zimbabwe has 5 UNESCO World Heritage sites with an abundance of free-roaming wildlife.

Table of contents in this Zimbabwe Travel Guide:

•   Best things to do in Zimbabwe
•   Best time to visit Zimbabwe
•   Things to know before you travel to Zimbabwe
•   Featured Zimbabwe Safari Tips
•   Zimbabwe Safari Knowledge
•   Related Africa Travel Guides
•   Zimbabwe Safari Deals

Interesting Facts Zimbabwe

  Flag of Zimbabwe

  National Animal Zimbabwe

Sable Antelope

  Zimbabwe National Dish

   Currency in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwean dollar (ZWD) 

   Zimbabwe Time Zone Central African Time Zone or EAT (GMT+2 hours)

Walking Safari Zimbabwe

Spotting Wildlife in Zambezi NP

Best time to visit Zimbabwe

The best time to visit Zimbabwe  depends on what you want to explore, which temperature conditions you like and if you are fine with rain. Zimbabwe is one of the few places in the world that boasts sunshine for more than 320 days per year, and therefore an amazing year-round destination. Hotels and safaris raise their rates from July, the start of Zimbabwe's high season.

• In general, one of the best months  to travel to Zimbabwe is in  May. It's the end of the summer rainy season with mild temperatures (mid 20), lush greenery, lesser tourists, and great conditions for wildlife-viewing and experience Vic Falls in full flood.
• For safaris , the best time to go to Zimbabwe is from May-November , with day temperatures of mid 20 degrees in July-August and 30+ in October/November. Animals congregate around the rivers and waterholes.
• If you want to visit Victoria Falls , the best time to visit Zimbabwe is from February to May , after the summer rains to experience a dramatic full curtain of falling water. 
• The rain season in Zimbabwe is from January-March . Roads can be in a bad condition and it's difficult to camp. Some safari camps in Hwange close during the rainy season (December-March), but the wildlife sightings are still good and the storms can be very photogenic and atmospheric bringing incredible sunsets, clear skies, and migratory birds.

Things to know before you travel to Zimbabwe

Safety in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is generally a safe country to travel to  however, occasional robberies do occur like in any other nation. Because of the poor economic conditions, some have turned to crime, and tourists can be targets. That being said, crime in Zimbabwe is probably some of the lowest on the African continent. Use your common sense while traveling; stay alert, avoid large gatherings, or demonstrations, and don't travel alone after sunset and you should have a trouble-free and safe trip in Zimbabwe. I was a volunteer in Zimbabwe and I felt safe the entire time

Visa requirements for Zimbabwe

Almost all foreign nationals require a visa to travel to Zimbabwe. With the new visa regime, all countries are grouped into three categories (A, B, and C). A few countries don't need a visa (A), some have to apply for a visa before traveling to Zimbabwe (C), others don't and can obtain a visa on arrival (B). Most countries, like the US, UK, and several EU-countries belong to category B. Because these visa regulations are subject to change, always check the Official Government of Zimbabwe eVisa Website , the official place to apply for an online visa , and to check the category your country belongs to. Visas can also be obtained at the Zimbabwean Embassy or Consulate in or near your country. The fees for a visa vary and depend on the applicant's nationality.

Top Tip: Zambia and Zimbabwe offer a universal visa, the KAZA Visa valid for both countries for visits up to 30 days (including trips to Chobe NP in Botswana) and you can cross borders between ZAM and ZIM (for example to visit Vic Falls at both sides) as much as you like for the same price as a single entry visa. Not all countries are eligible, but most countries of America, Europe, and North Asia can apply for this visa.

Responsible Travel in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a poor country and suffered from a collapsed economy. You can support the local economy and individuals by choosing a responsible, reputable local tour operator , local guides, and stay at locally owned eco-hotels or homestays. Use eco-friendly products and try to avoid single-use plastics as recycling isn't a priority in Zim.

Trophy hunting and canned hunting are sadly a big issue in Zimbabwe. The issue went viral when Cecil the lion got killed by a trophy hunter from the US. Don't participate in canned hunting or related unethical activities, such as walking and cuddling with lions that are part of a captive breeding project. Habituating wild animals for tourism is unethical. Please reconsider taking part in these activities.

On game drives, please don't ask your guide to leave the trails to get closer to wildlife as it will distress the animals . How would you feel when a stranger walks into your house because he's curious to see how you live? Also, think before you take a photo of local Zimbabwean as we sometimes forget that our trip to a foreign country is the home and reality of the locals. Ask permission, let them see the photo, and maybe even ask if they want a copy.

Zimbabwe does take part in conservation initiatives . It is part of two transfrontier conservation areas: the Kavango-Zambezi Trans-Frontier Conservation Area (or Ivory Route), a corridor for Elephants to move across country borders, and the Great Limpopo TransFrontier Park.

Don't volunteer in orphanages and don't visit schools when the children are still present, as it is disruptive for the children's education. If you really want to make an impact, ask if the school requires items and donate them to the teacher.

Vaccinations & anti-Malaria tablets for Zimbabwe

Required vaccinations depend on what you will be doing in Zimbabwe, which places you will be visiting, and how long you will stay. However, most travelers to Zimbabwe require Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Other recommended vaccines are TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis), Hepatitis B (if you're staying 3+ months) , Rabies, and Cholera declaration ('not indicated').  Malaria is present in certain areas of Zimbabwe at certain times of the year. Consult a travel clinic to discuss antimalarials, unless you are only staying in Harare or Bulawayo. Note that Bilharzia is present in some lakes. Ask locally before swimming. Yellow Fever is not prevalent, but if you have been or are going to be in transit in a Yellow Fever area for more than 12 hours, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory.

Spoken languages in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has 16 official spoken languages . The three main languages spoken are English , Ndebele , and Shona of which Shona is the most widely spoken language. Most Zimbabweans speak English quite well, even children and older people. There are also numerous but minor tribal dialects.

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Things to do in Zimbabwe to cross off your bucket list

Victoria Falls Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya ("the smoke that thunders") is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world on the Zambezi River and borders Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls is the largest curtain of falling water in the world and the only one with a length of more than a kilometer and 100+ meters high. The falls are a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  and part of the Zambezi National Park and Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe as well as the Mosi-oa-tunya National Park in Zambia. The spray from the falls can be seen from miles away. Victoria Falls showcases beautiful rainbows on sunny days, you can have a peek over the edge of the falls and you can jump off the 111 meters high Victoria Falls Bridge.

Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park is a wild and remote UNESCO World Heritage Site with wonderful wildlife on the southern banks of the Zambezi river where you can go for a canoe safari and watch elephants and hippos from your canoe. The park is also popular for its walking safaris to spot animals like elephant, lion, wild dog, and buffalo. With over 350 bird species, the park is also great for birdwatchers.

Hwange National Park

Located between Victoria Falls and Bulawayo, Hwange National Park is one of the oldest national parks in Africa, and the largest in Zimbabwe. It is one of the few great elephants sanctuaries with over 30,000 elephants. The park boasts more than 100 different animal species and over 400 bird species. A must do in Hwange NP is a walking safari with an experienced guide for up-close animal encounters.

Great Zimbabwe Ruins

Discover the mysteries of ancient Africa at the Great Zimbabwe Ruins – an archaeological wonder where history of a lost civilization comes alive! These impressive granite stone structures, that were once the center of a powerful empire, span 1800 ac (700ha).

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We're Andre & Lisa, adventurers and experienced budget travelers.

We have over two decades of travel experience and  since 2018 have led a full-time nomadic lifestyle.

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ZIMBABWE TRAVEL GUIDE

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in southern Africa known for its dramatic landscape and diverse wildlife, much of it within parks, reserves and safari areas. On the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls make a thundering 108m drop into narrow Batoka Gorge, where there are white-water rafting and bungee-jumping. Downstream are Matusadona and Mana Pools national parks, home to hippos, rhinos and birdlife.

Once known as the Breadbasket of Africa, since 2000, Zimbabwe has undergone an economic collapse and the rule of law has gradually but largely broken down, although there have been a few signs of improvement since the theoretical formation of a unity Government in 2009 and the Zimbabwean economy has been on the rebound.

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• Capital : Harare
• Currency : Zimbabwean dollar (official for governmental transactions)
• Area : 390,757 km2
• Population : 14,44 million (2018)
• Language : English (official), Shona (official), Sindebele (official) (the language of the Ndebele), numerous but minor tribal dialects
• Religion:Syncretic (part Christian, part indigenous beliefs) 50%, Christian 25%, indigenous beliefs 24%, Muslim and other 1%
• Electricity : 220/50Hz (UK plug)
• 18 April, Independence Day
• 1 May, Workers’ Day
• 25 May, Africa Day
• 2nd Monday in August, Heroes’ Day
• 2nd Tuesday in August, Armed Forces Day
• 22 December, Unity Day

Also, Good Friday through Easter Monday.

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SEASONS AT A GLANCE

Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists. 

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BEST TIME TO VISIT ZIMBABWE

Zimbabwe has a subtropical climate with distinct rainy and dry seasons.

• The rainy season in Zimbabwe runs from November to April and it's characterized by high humidity and heavy rainfall, particularly in the eastern and northeastern regions. During this time the vegetation is lush and green, making it an ideal time for bird watching and for visiting Victoria Falls, which are at their fullest.
• The dry season in Zimbabwe runs from May to October and it's characterized by lower humidity and little to no rainfall. This is considered the best time for game viewing in national parks and for activities such as safari and hiking as the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife. It's also a good time for outdoor activities and the weather is warm but not hot.

Please note that the seasons may vary depending on the location and altitude.

BEST TIME FOR:

Snow Sports

The best time for outdoor activities and game viewing in Zimbabwe is during the dry season, from May to October.

Best Beaches

River surfing is growing in popularity worldwide and one of the world’s most dangerous river wave lies somewhere along the mighty Zambezi River in Zimbabwe.

Kitesurfing: Spot Maps, Wind Season

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ZIMBABWE TRAVEL COSTS

The cost of travel to Zimbabwe can vary depending on several factors such as the time of year, the length of stay, and the type of accommodations and activities you plan to do.

Here are a few estimates of costs for different aspects of travel to Zimbabwe:

• Airfare: Round-trip flights to Zimbabwe can range from $800 to $1,500 or more, depending on the departure city and time of year.
• Accommodation: Budget accommodations in Zimbabwe can range from $15 to $30 per night for a basic room, while more luxurious options can range from $50 to $150 or more per night.
• Food and drink: Basic meals can be found for as little as $5, while more upscale dining options can cost $20 or more.
• Transportation: Buses and trains are relatively cheap, with fares ranging from a few dollars for short trips to $50 or more for longer distances. Taxis are also readily available in most cities and towns, with fares generally around $1 per kilometer.
• Activities: Entrance fees to national parks and other tourist attractions can range from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the location and type of activity.

Overall, a budget of around $50 to $100 per day should be sufficient for budget travelers and around $150 to $300 per day for those looking for more comfortable accommodations and activities.

Please note that these are just estimates and the actual cost of travel will depend on your personal preferences, travel style and the availability of services at the time of your visit.

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Find discount flights to zimbabwe, travel tips for zimbabwe.

Here are a few travel tips for Zimbabwe:

• Plan ahead: Research the destinations you plan to visit, including the best time to go, what to see and do, and what to expect in terms of accommodation and transportation.
• Bring cash: The local currency is the Zimbabwean dollar, but US dollars are widely accepted. However, it's important to note that cash is the most reliable form of payment, as credit and debit cards may not be accepted everywhere.
• Respect local customs: Zimbabwe is a culturally diverse country and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. This includes dress codes, customs around photography, and customs around interacting with local people.
• Vaccinations: Some vaccinations may be required for travel to Zimbabwe, such as Yellow Fever and Malaria. Be sure to consult with a healthcare professional before your trip to determine what vaccinations you may need.
• Be prepared for unexpected situations: Zimbabwe is a developing country and infrastructure may not always be reliable. Be prepared for unexpected situations and have a plan B in case of unforeseen events.
• Be careful with your belongings: As with any travel, be mindful of your belongings and take precautions to avoid becoming a target for theft.
• Respect wildlife: Zimbabwe is home to a wide variety of wildlife and it's important to respect the animals and their habitat. This includes not littering, not feeding the animals, and not getting too close to them.
• Be aware of the security situation: Be aware of the security situation in the areas you plan to visit and take precautions to stay safe.
• Get a local sim card: It will be convenient to have a local sim card for internet and making calls.
• Have a good travel insurance: It's a good idea to have a comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost or stolen belongings.

REGIONS & HIGHLIGHTS OF ZIMBABWE

Zimbabwe is a country with diverse landscapes and cultures, divided into several regions, each with its own unique highlights. Here are a few of the main regions of Zimbabwe and some of the highlights of each region:

• Harare : The capital of Zimbabwe, Harare is known for its lively street markets, colorful gardens, and the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, which showcases the country's art and culture.
• Bulawayo : Zimbabwe's second-largest city, Bulawayo is known for its colonial-era architecture, vibrant arts scene, and the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, which offers a glimpse into the country's natural history and wildlife.
• Matabeleland : A region in the west of Zimbabwe, Matabeleland is known for its rugged wilderness, game reserves, and the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, an ancient city that dates back to the 11th century.
• Mashonaland : A region in the north of Zimbabwe, Mashonaland is known for its rolling hills, national parks, and the ancient city of Khami, which dates back to the 14th century.
• Manicaland : A region in the east of Zimbabwe, Manicaland is known for its mountainous landscapes, national parks, and the Chimanimani Mountains, which offer excellent hiking and climbing opportunities.
• Masvingo : A region in the south of Zimbabwe, Masvingo is known for its ancient ruins, such as the Great Zimbabwe ruins, the natural stone city and the Bantu people's architectural heritage, and the natural beauty of Lake Kyle and the Save River.
• The Victoria Falls : A town in the northwest of Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is known for its natural wonder, Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest and most spectacular waterfalls, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Hwange National Park : A region in the west of Zimbabwe, Hwange is known for its wildlife and biodiversity, it's one of the largest and most diverse national parks in Africa, and home to large numbers of elephants, lions, buffaloes and many other species.

Please note that this is just a sampling of the regions and highlights of Zimbabwe and there are many other places to explore in this diverse country.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN ZIMBABWE

Here are some of the best things to see and do when visiting Zimbabwe:

• Visit the Victoria Falls : One of the world's largest and most spectacular waterfalls, Victoria Falls is a must-see attraction when visiting Zimbabwe. The falls are at their fullest during the rainy season, from November to April.
• Game viewing in national parks : Zimbabwe is home to several national parks, including Hwange National Park and Matopos National Park, which offer excellent opportunities for game viewing and wildlife watching.
• Explore ancient ruins : Zimbabwe is home to several ancient ruins, including the Great Zimbabwe ruins, which date back to the 11th century, and the ancient city of Khami, which dates back to the 14th century.
• Experience the culture : Zimbabwe is a culturally diverse country, and there are many opportunities to experience the culture firsthand, including visiting local markets, attending cultural festivals, and visiting museums and art galleries.
• Go on a safari : Zimbabwe offers many safari options to explore the wildlife, you can go on a walking safari, a game drive, or even a hot air balloon safari.
• Visit the Chimanimani Mountains : These mountains are located in the east of Zimbabwe and offer excellent hiking and climbing opportunities, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
• Visit the Lake Kyle : A large artificial lake located in the south of the country, it's a great spot for fishing, boating, and bird watching.
• Visit the Eastern Highlands: These highlands are located in the east of Zimbabwe, and offer beautiful landscapes, hiking opportunities, and a chance to see the local communities and their lifestyle.
• Visit the Matobo Hills : These granite hills are located in the west of the country, they are known for its rock art, wildlife, and hiking trails.
• Visit the Mkuze Game Reserve : It's located in the north of the country, it's a great place for wildlife viewing and bird watching, as well as cultural tours.

WHAT TO EAT IN ZIMBABWE

Zimbabwe has a unique and diverse cuisine that is influenced by the country's history, culture, and geography. Here are a few traditional dishes and ingredients that you should try when visiting Zimbabwe:

• Sadza : A staple food in Zimbabwe, sadza is a thick porridge made from ground cornmeal. It's typically served with a variety of stews or relishes made from vegetables, meat or fish, and is often eaten with the hands.
• Biltong : A dried and salted meat, similar to jerky, it's a popular snack in Zimbabwe and is made from a variety of meats including beef, kudu, and impala.
• Chakalaka : A vegetable relish that is often served with sadza. It's made from a mix of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices, and can be served hot or cold.
• Fried Tilapia : Tilapia is a freshwater fish that is commonly found in the lakes and rivers of Zimbabwe, it's often served fried with a side of sadza.
• Matemba : A dried fish, it's a popular snack in Zimbabwe and is often served with sadza or as a side dish.
• Dovi : A traditional dish made from peanut butter and vegetables, it's typically served with sadza.
• Kapenta : A small fish that is caught in Lake Kariba and it's popular in Zimbabwe, it's often served fried or in a stew.
• Mopani worms : These are caterpillars of the emperor moth, they are a delicacy in Zimbabwe and are often fried or grilled.

Please note that these are just a few examples of the traditional dishes and ingredients that you can try in Zimbabwe and depending on your personal preferences, you may find other dishes that you enjoy more.

LGBTQ IN ZIMBABWE

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WHERE TO STAY IN ZIMBABWE

When visiting Zimbabwe for the first time, there are several regions worth considering, each offering unique attractions and experiences. Here are some options along with reasons and accommodation suggestions for each:

Where To Stay At Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, offering breathtaking views of the iconic waterfall and a range of adventure activities such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and helicopter rides.

Budget accommodation:   Victoria Falls Backpackers - Located in the town of Victoria Falls, this hostel offers budget-friendly dormitory beds and private rooms, with a swimming pool, bar, and social atmosphere.

Mid-range accommodation:   Victoria Falls Safari Lodge - Situated on a plateau overlooking the Zambezi National Park, this lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant with panoramic views, a swimming pool, and easy access to Victoria Falls.

Luxury accommodation:   The Victoria Falls Hotel - This historic luxury hotel offers elegant rooms and suites, gourmet dining options, a swimming pool, and exclusive views of the Victoria Falls Bridge and gorge.

Where To Stay In Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's largest national park, known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and more. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and night drives in search of the Big Five and other species.

Budget accommodation:   Ivory Lodge - Located near Hwange Main Camp, this lodge offers budget-friendly chalets and camping facilities, with guided safaris and bush walks available.

Mid-range accommodation:   Hwange Safari Lodge - Situated on the edge of the national park, this lodge offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and guided safaris led by experienced guides.

Luxury accommodation:   The Hide Safari Camp - This luxury camp offers spacious tents and suites with private decks overlooking a waterhole frequented by wildlife, gourmet dining options, and exclusive game drives.

Where To Stay At Matobo Hills

Matobo Hills is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning granite rock formations, ancient rock art, and diverse wildlife, including rhinos, leopards, and antelope species. Visitors can explore the landscape on foot, by vehicle, or on horseback.

Budget accommodation:   Camp Amalinda - Located within the Matobo Hills, this lodge offers budget-friendly chalets and camping facilities, with guided tours to rock art sites and wildlife areas.

Mid-range accommodation:   Big Cave Camp - Situated amidst giant boulders, this camp offers comfortable rooms and chalets with panoramic views, a swimming pool, and guided tours to historical and cultural sites.

Luxury accommodation:   Amalinda Lodge - This luxury lodge offers luxurious suites carved into the rock face, gourmet dining options, a spa, and exclusive tours to Matobo Hills' rock art sites and wildlife areas.

Each of these regions in Zimbabwe offers its own unique experiences and accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you're interested in witnessing the majestic Victoria Falls, embarking on thrilling safaris, or exploring ancient rock art sites, Zimbabwe has something to offer for every traveler.

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FLIGHTS Find a cheap flight by using  Sky scanner  or  Momondo . These are our favourite  flight search engines. They index other travel websites and airlines across the globe to easily find you the best deal.

ACCOMMODATION

Booking.com is our number one resource for researching and booking accommodation. In addition to Booking.com , we have found  Agoda.com to consistently returns the cheapest rates in Southeast Asia. 

TRANSPORT ​

DiscoverCars.com is a leader in online car rental bookings; we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip.  12Go   connects the world door-to-door, from transfers to flights, under the same user-friendly ticket.

INSURANCE Travel insurance can protect you against unexpecte d illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Heymondo (International Travel Insurance)

World Nomads   (Travel / medical insurance for long-term travellers and nomads)

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance (Travel / medical insurance for long-term travellers and nomads)

Need more help to book your trip? Check our complete resource page  for all the best companies to use when you travel. You will only find the companies we use ourselves.

Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you,

we may earn a commission if you end up making a purchase.

© 2024 Andre & Lisa

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Zimbabwe travel guides

• Mana Pools National Park

Zimbabwe is once again becoming one of the most popular safari destinations in Southern Africa and it’s not hard to see why with its fantastic national parks filled with wildlife and its expert guides at the top of their field.

Our travel guide provides information and answers to common questions regarding travel to Zimbabwe. Explore the lush Eastern Highlands, the stark beauty of the western national parks and the mighty Victoria Falls for a real understanding of Zimbabwe’s appeal.

Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Zimbabwe specialists

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Ideas for how to explore Zimbabwe

Our travel guides share our specialists' passion and knowledge for Zimbabwe. We travel here regularly to discover new experiences, explore untried areas and dig deeper into the better-known places and attractions. At the same time, we gather advice and up-to-date information on the best-quality guides, new hotels and restaurants, and the most memorable forms of transportation.

A typical day on an African safari

A typical day on safari essentially revolves around the need to see the wildlife at its most active. It usually follows a similar routine with slight variations between destinations and seasons.

Zimbabwe safaris

With exceptional guides, several national parks and a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five, Zimbabwe offers an authentic safari experience that can easily be coupled with a trip to Victoria Falls. Africa specialist Amelia outlines what makes a Zimbabwe safari special.

Luxury safaris in Zimbabwe

With the most highly trained guides in Africa, camps and lodges that balance comfort and rusticity, and wildlife areas renowned for big cats and wild dog, Zimbabwe offers safaris of the highest level. Safari specialist Tony shares his ideas for a luxurious stay.

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Zimbabwe Travel Guide

Travel & Tourism

Zimbabwe may be one of the most beautiful countries in Africa, but it is perhaps better known as one of the more troubled nations on the continent. From its independence, in 1980, through Robert Mugabe’s ongoing reign, many tourists have left Zimbabwe off their itineraries. Despite the country’s reputation in the West, however, it has much to be proud of, and Zimbabwe has an astonishing array to offer tourists. It boasts one of the highest literacy rates in Africa, impressive natural attractions (such as Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world), and some of the most diverse wildlife on the continent.

In 2009, Zimbabwe’s longtime single-party rule ended, and the nation established a power-sharing government. Although Mugabe has yet to agree to the terms of the Global Political Agreement,  economic revival has begun, signaling a fresh beginning and a brighter future for this African nation.

What to Do in Zimbabwe

1. Victoria Falls:  These great cascades, located near the Zimbabwe–Zambia border in the Zambezi River, are undoubtedly one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world. An average of 550,000 cubic meters (19,420 cubic feet) rush through them every day. The falls and surrounding area are not only a national park but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site; they have awed and inspired visitors for hundreds of years. A large number of water sports and extreme sports are available to tourists around the falls, from bungee jumping to white-water rafting. The town of Victoria Falls, on the southern bank of the Zambezi River, is easily accessible by bus and car and has a small international airport with daily domestic flights, as well as service to cities in South Africa and Namibia.

2. Chinhoyi Caves:  These dolomite and limestone caves are located near the town of Chinhoyi, a couple of hours from Harare. Within the caves is a large, deep blue pool, known as the Silent Pool. It is believed that the caves were once the hideout of the bandit Nyamakwere, who threw his victims into the pool to drown them. The pools in the caves offer super diving with great visibility and exciting underwater tunnels and caves to explore.

3. Kariba:  This inland sea, nestled in Zimbabwe’s breathtaking mountains, is surrounded by game reserves and a prime fishing and water sports area. Kariba is one of the largest manmade lakes in history, having once been a river. It is a lovely watering hole, feeding ground, and home to a myriad of mammals, birds, and fish, and it is dotted with small islands teeming with life. We highly recommend putting Kariba at the top of your itinerary.

4. Mbare Market:  Need to do some souvenir shopping? Or do you simply want to experience the buzz of African market life? If you are in Harare, visit the Mbare Market, where vendors sell everything you might wish for. Prices are almost never fixed, so be prepared to bargain.

5. Hwange National Park:  The largest national park in Zimbabwe, Hwange is located between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls and boasts one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, including elephants, buffalo, zebras, and giraffes. Some of Africa’s most obscure and unusual mammals, such as the gemsbok, can be found here. Walking, driving, and horseback safaris in this massive park make for unforgettable experiences.

6. Bulawayo:  Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, located in the southwestern part of the country, is known for its vibrant art and music scene, colonial buildings, and tree-lined streets. Home to a large number of the nation’s museums, Bulawayo is a great city to spend some down time in before or after a tour in one of Zimbabwe’s national parks.

7. Matobos National Park:  A short drive from Bulawayo, this national park is one of Zimbabwe’s greatest tourist attractions, with its impressive granite outcrops and a large variety of birds. The greatest concentration of ancient San rock art can also be found in the Matobo hills. There is a small game park where visitors can see white and black rhinoceroses.

8. Great Zimbabwe Ruins:  Near the southern town of Masvingo reside the most impressive medieval ruins in sub-Saharan Africa. Dating between A.D. 1250 and 1450, the ruins possess the craftsmanship, size, and timelessness to make them one of the most impressive tourist destinations on the continent, a testament to the intelligence and skills of the ancestors of today’s Zimbabwean people. The ruins consist of two large stone enclosures and a conical tower, built from granite and soapstone. Similar ruins exist throughout the rest of Zimbabwe and in surrounding countries, but none can match Great Zimbabwe in magnitude.

Zimbabwe enjoys a moderate climate year-round. Temperatures are higher and rain is more frequent between November and April. It is cooler between May and October.

Getting In and Around

Visas:  To enter Zimbabwe most foreigners require a visa, which can be obtained in advance from an embassy or a consulate or, in some cases, at the airport. All foreigners must have proof of vaccination against yellow fever and cholera. For complete visa details and requirements, check the website of the Embassy of Zimbabwe in Washington, D.C.

Transportation:  There are a number of international flights to Harare International Airport, but in recent years many big airline companies have been cutting service to Zimbabwe. It is best to fly to a neighboring country and catch a connecting flight. Several domestic flights run between many of Zimbabwe’s larger cities and to Victoria Falls.

The most common form of transportation in Zimbabwe is car. A number of bus companies within Zimbabwe service domestic destinations, as do buses that enter the country from neighboring nations. Local buses tend to depart when full and do not operate on a particular timetable, whereas express buses operate on a schedule. Express buses usually offer the fastest way to reach your destination, but they are more expensive.

Safety and Security

Concerned about your safety as you plan travel to Zimbabwe? We at Africa.com, together with our friends, family and colleagues, travel extensively throughout the continent. Here are the resources we consult when thinking of our safety in Zimbabwe:

•  UK Government Zimbabwe Travel Advice Guidance

Africa.com comment: Very timely and frequently updated. Perspective assumes that you ARE going to travel to Zimbabwe, and seeks to give you good guidance so that you understand the risks and are well informed.

•  U.S. State Department Travel Advisory on Zimbabwe

Africa.com comment: Can sometimes be considered as overly conservative and discourage travel altogether to destinations that many reasonable people find acceptably secure. On the other hand, they have the resources of the CIA to inform them, so they know things that the rest of us don’t know. See what they have to say about Zimbabwe.

Local Advice

1. Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in southern Africa. It sits between South Africa and Zambia and is bordered to the west by Botswana and to the east by Mozambique. It is slightly larger than Montana and is divided into ten provinces. The climate is usually tropical, depending on altitude.

2. The population of Zimbabwe is roughly 11.6 million. About 82 percent of that population is ethnically Shona and 14 percent Ndebele. Roughly 75 percent of Zimbabweans practice some form of Christianity, and 24 percent practice indigenous religions.

3. English is the official language of Zimbabwe, and Shona and Sindabele are both widely spoken.

4. The currency in Zimbabwe is the Zimbabwe dollar (the symbol is ZWD). Because of hyperinflation, several other currencies, like the euro and the American dollar, are in use. Visitors to Zimbabwe should have no problem using American greenbacks. Debit and credit cards are rarely accepted, so cash is essential.

5. Owing to the sometimes volatile political situation in Zimbabwe, visitors should be very mindful of expressing in public their opinions concerning Zimbabwean politics and the economy.

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It’s time to rediscover Zimbabwe’s stunning attractions and World Heritage Sites; from the magnificent Victoria Falls and Zambezi River to Matobo National Park’s ancient cave paintings; the game-rich national parks and Bulawayo’s local craft markets and, above all, to meet or reacquaint yourself with the country’s delightful people. Paul Murray  and  Paul Hubbard , authors of Zimbabwe: the Bradt Guide  

Zimbabwe’s recent political history is well documented and dealt a hammer blow to the tourism industry as visitors stayed away in droves. But the political developments of 2009 changed all that and there is a renewed vigour and vibrancy that has brought huge reinvestment in tourism infrastructure.

As I write this in Victoria Falls, I’m watching the sleepy little town of the last decade transform itself back into a bustling mecca for visitors from all over the world, just as it used to be.

True, Vic Falls and Hwange National Park with its abundance of wildlife are the current destinations of choice but already I’m hearing of people planning return visits to some of the lesser known, but equally stunning holiday destinations this country has to offer.

In Mana Pools, Gonarezhou and Chizarira national parks you’ll find unspoilt natural wildernesses like nowhere else in southern Africa. Lake Kariba which forms the northern border of Matusadona National Park offers a brilliant combination of freshwater ‘sea’ resorts and wildlife. Another of my favourites is Matobo National Park where you can visit easily accessible San rock paintings, some of the best examples of cave painting in the world.

The Eastern Highlands have fantastic scenery with fishing, hiking, golf and superb birdwatching as highlights – it’s nice and cool in the summer as well. Harare and Bulawayo are two very different cities – the first is chock full of restaurants, upmarket shops and artistic venues while historical Byo is laid back and friendly with great examples of colonial architecture.

And no vacation here is complete without a visit to the magnificent, but sometimes eerie, national monuments like Great Zimbabwe and Khami Ruins. All this plus its unfailingly welcoming and friendly people makes Zimbabwe once again, a ‘must-see’ destination.

Food and drink in Zimbabwe

Western food.

Eating out in Zimbabwe was always excellent value, by which we mean very good quality yet inexpensive in international terms. More recently though, the virtual collapse of the agricultural industry means that good-quality raw materials generally have to be imported and in the process drive up prices. Expect around US$15–25 for a main course in a good restaurant. Virtually all restaurants and accommodations serve international menus with a heavy emphasis on steak, which is excellent in this country, and you’ll also find a variety of game meats on many menus. Vegetarians, generally speaking, have more difficulty finding an imaginative menu in what is essentially a nation of carnivores. Safari lodges and camps serve set meals so if you have any special dietary requirements be sure to advise them at the time of booking so they can accommodate you accordingly. Given the often-remote locations of these camps, don’t wait until you arrive before stating your dietary needs, as it will then be too late for them to cater according to your requirements.

Local/rural food

Once the country was not only self-sufficient in food, but also farmed in such abundance that it earned the sobriquet ‘the breadbasket of southern Africa’. Since 2000, economic and political instability, farm invasions and droughts have combined to turn the country into not only a net importer of maize but dependent on international food aid.

The staple starch for Zimbabweans is maize ( mealie ), although millet and sorghum are alternative grains grown mainly in the lowveld areas. Sadza , a heavy mash made from ground maize and water, forms the basis of every meal, supplemented with a relish – essentially anything that is available to impart a different flavour. Generally the sadza is rolled by hand into a small ball, moulded into a slight cup shape and dipped into the relish. Common relishes are vegetablebased, frequently green leaves like rape, either cultivated or collected wild, with tomato or onion if available. Groundnuts are grown and pounded to make a sauce with onions, something of a delicacy. Commercially produced fermented milk, known as lacto , is another popular relish. Chicken eggs are seldom eaten as they are needed to produce more hens. Maize cobs are commonly eaten roasted as a snack.

Rural Zimbabweans make great use of nature’s free resources, so wild mushrooms, fruits, seeds and wild plants are harvested. Their diet also includes a surprising number of insect species as protein sources – crickets and locusts, flying ants and a variety of caterpillars, not forgetting, of course, the plump and fried mopane worms. Cattle tend to be kept as an expression of wealth, and used as beasts of burden rather than a food source, although they are eaten following a ritual or ceremonial sacrifice. Other meat such as goat, mutton and chicken is commonly eaten depending on the wealth of the family. Nyama is the Shona word for meat, so you won’t go far in Zimbabwe before hearing the words sadza ne nyama , ie: sadza and meat stew, the standard meal for most Zimbabweans (including many whites). Needless to say, nothing is wasted, so stewed chicken heads and feet, bony off cuts and offal that would be considered unpalatable by many Westerners are all consumed. Fish from rivers and lakes include chessa, barbel or squeaker, fighting tigerfish, Kariba kapenta and, rarely, the huge vundu, the largest freshwater fish in the Zambezi, growing to over 50kg.

Urban Zimbabweans are more Western-orientated. Bread is popular, as are fast foods, especially fried chicken. Yet even in towns only a fool would try to separate a Zimbabwean, black or white, from their sadza .

There’s a good range of Zimbabwean-brewed lager-type beers available and they come in either brown or green bottles. Brown beers such as Castle are ‘ordinary’ beers while green bottles such as Zambezi or Bohlingers denote premium beers carrying a slightly higher price. Imported beers command the highest prices. However, most local people purchase their Zimbabwean beer in cans these days rather than bottles. It’s quite common to have to pay a refundable deposit on glass bottles. Chibuku is the name given to local, mainly rurally consumed ‘beer’, a thick fermented concoction that is either brewed at home or commercially produced.

Bottle stores in large towns sell a range of imported South African wines. Zimbabwean wines, previously shunned by all but the desperate, have improved and you could sample the Private Cellar range or get hold of Bushman Rock.

All types of spirits are widely available with imported brands obviously commanding far higher prices. But with alcohol freely available in shops, supplies of mixers such as tonic water, ginger and soda can be erratic and you wouldn’t expect to find them in smaller towns.

The bars in the big Victoria Falls and Harare hotels are understandably expensive but generally speaking prices are reasonable and far cheaper than most European countries, although usually much higher than South Africa. A regular supply of safe drinking water from the taps remains problematic so bottled water is your best friend while staying in most towns. Check with your accommodation as they will normally supply clean, purified drinking water on request. Several of the upmarket lodges are eliminating water in plastic bottles in favour of refillable glass or metal containers from an in-house water filter.

Health and safety in Zimbabwe

The economic meltdown in the decade of 2000 onwards had a dramatic effect on Zimbabwe’s health care system, resulting in chronic shortages of manpower, medical supplies and equipment, even in the capital, Harare. During the Unity government (2009–13), the situation improved but the country has subsequently slipped back economically. Public hospitals are still extremely understaffed and generally very poorly equipped. Well-run private clinics and hospitals can be found in Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls and are capable of dealing with common emergencies but facilities in the rest of the country are sketchy and changeable. For serious conditions, evacuation to South Africa is invariably the best option unless the patient can’t be moved. Comprehensive medical insurance should therefore be a priority. Outside of towns and on safari, your lodge or camp will be well versed in first aid but will probably only stock basic medications. Rural clinics are rudimentary and cannot be relied upon for medical expertise, equipment or provision of medications.

Many fully inclusive lodges and tourism facilities subscribe to MARS (Medical Air Rescue Service), a private Zimbabwe-based medical service provider offering emergency road or air evacuation to the nearest medical facility. Control centres and medical teams around the country are on call 24 hours a day.

ACE Air and Ambulance provides a similar general service as MARS, but also another specifically tailored to the safari industry and has bases in Harare and Victoria Falls. Prior to booking your trip you may wish to enquire whether the places you plan to stay at subscribe to the above services.

Emergencies aside, Zimbabwe is a generally low risk in medical terms but of course with the proviso of malaria, which is endemic in large areas of the country that tourists are likely to visit. The country’s tourism sector has a long and enviable history of catering for ‘high-end’ visitors, so hygiene requirements are well understood and standards in camps, lodges and hotels are generally on a par with first world countries. That said, municipal water supplies have suffered greatly from under-investment and poor maintenance in recent years so be extremely wary about drinking tap water in town accommodations. Safari accommodations obtain water from boreholes, which provide some of the nicest water you are likely to drink. Pharmacies can be found in towns around the country but stocks will not be very comprehensive.

The incidence of HIV/AIDS is hard to gauge accurately, but in 2017 the estimated adult infection rate was 13.6%, with 1.3 million people living with AIDS. In 2017, new infections dropped to 41,000 from 2010’s figure of 79,000, with behaviour change, high treatment coverage and prevention of mother-to-child transmission services thought to be responsible for this decline. Deaths from AIDS-related illnesses continue to fall – from 61,000 in 2013 to 22,000 in 2017.

Travel clinics and health information

A full list of current travel clinic websites worldwide is  available . For other journey preparation information, consult  Travel Health Pro  (UK) or  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (USA). Information about various medications may be found on  Net Doctor . All advice found online should be used in conjunction with expert advice received prior to or during travel. 

Nobody involved with Zimbabwe tourism can be in any doubt about the power of the international media, which effectively put the industry into a long hibernation between 2000–2013. We have been told in graphic detail that there is widespread violence, with murder, beatings, police brutality and torture. Zimbabwe must be a very dangerous place because even South Africans, who are quite prepared to live in one of the most violently criminal countries on the planet, are frightened to come here. Of course Zimbabwe has obligingly provided all the gory news fodder necessary to sell papers and have us glued to our television screens, and certain sections of the population have indeed had a horrid time for many years.

But, and it’s a big but, every scrap of that violence has been tied up one way or another with politics. This means that tourists are not – and never were – under any threat of violence, provided they keep clear of political activities.

By on what authority can we write this? Paul Murray has spent many years travelling in the country, while Paul Hubbard has lived in the country all of his life and has over a decade of experience in the tourist industry.

So what about normal crime? First, it’s almost inevitable that as soon as one starts to compile a list of anti-crime precautions, even though most of them are simple and very obvious, one is in danger of implying that the destination has significant crime problems. Zimbabwe, along with several neighbouring countries, has traditionally been virtually crime-free, to the extent that many rural tourist accommodations don’t even have locks on their doors. There are worrying reports of robberies and thefts in the larger urban centres and you should take all reasonable precautions as when in similar places anywhere else in the world. Despite the lack of current statistics, crime against tourists is generally minimal, not least because you will usually be in remote areas, and you should still look on Zimbabwe as an extremely safe country to visit.

With such a large proportion of the population being reduced to poverty and with a situation of extremely low (formal) unemployment, it’s no wonder that a very small minority have resorted to crime. This is nearly all property-related, with a significant increase in Harare’s residential burglary rate but, unlike in South Africa, virtually none of it involves gratuitous violence. Generally speaking, pretty well all of the few burglaries one hears of involve theft of items such as food, money and clothing.

Female travellers

Women travelling in Zimbabwe, either on their own or in pairs, are certainly safer here than in most other countries of the world. Provided you take normal, reasonable precautions you’ll find the place remarkably hassle free to travel through. Tourism is a major currency earner and employer, so most people are well used to respecting travellers of all sorts. Around town in the day, don’t forget this is a very conservative country so the usual dress sense applies: don’t wear provocative clothing, which generally means covering your shoulders and taking care not to bare midriffs or show too much leg – knee-length skirts and shorts, jeans and trousers are fine. If you do get a bit skimpy clothing-wise, while you won’t be at risk you will probably attract attention and be regarded in a negative light. Dress more conservatively in the evening and in bars or your intentions may be misconstrued. Where possible, team up with friends before you get to a bar, rather than waiting alone to meet them there. As always, laid-back Victoria Falls is something of an exception, where single women are extremely common (numerically speaking) and taken for granted.

As a lone, female traveller any attention you may attract will almost certainly be purely inquisitive. The way you are travelling (ie: without a man) tells people that you are clearly a very capable person and the very opposite of vulnerable. Basically if you can fend off an unwelcome advance in London, New York or Paris you will have no problem in Zimbabwe.

That is not to say that you will not be an object of great interest to both men and women. Africa is generally very conservative and male dominated, with women having definite roles in life, none of which involve swanning off around the world without a man. Two of the first questions you will invariably be asked are ‘Where is your husband?’ and ‘How many children have you got?’ This is all very important information and tells them a lot about you. Big families are good news in Africa; everybody has them so where are your children? You shouldn’t get too defensive about this because men too are expected to father children and we frequently get asked about the number of kids we have.

Depending on their age, childless women travellers may want to invent a husband and a child or two because women of marriageable age who decide not to have children are generally regarded in African cultures as lazy or even worthless. Similarly, men without children are usually considered inadequate. For either gender to choose not to have any children is virtually incomprehensible.

Finally, a word of advice: sanitary products have been notoriously absent from Zimbabwe’s shop shelves in the last few years and although the situation has greatly improved it would still be wise to take sufficient stocks with you for your whole trip. 

LGBTQ+ travellers

Zimbabwe, in common with most African countries, has an extremely conservative attitude towards homosexuality, and political and religious leaders here regularly use the words ‘homosexual’ and ‘gay’ as terms of abuse. So what are the implications for gays and lesbians visiting the country?

In Zimbabwe, homosexual sex remains a criminal offence for men but not for women. Cross-dressing for men is illegal. There is a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage too, upheld by the supreme court in 2019. Nevertheless, if you are discreet, you are very likely to be safe although, for men, there is a good possibility of being blackmailed if you have sex with a local person with fewer resources than yourself.

Zimbabwe is not uniformly homophobic and an urban generation is now growing up with the knowledge that gay and lesbian people exist in their midst, but it is still best to be very discreet about your sexuality unless you are sure you’re in safe company. Sleeping arrangements should not be an issue as you are in the privacy of your own room.

Anti-gay sentiment is not usually expressed in terms of physical violence but can result in verbal abuse. According to a 2018 survey, 50% of gay men in Zimbabwe had been physically assaulted and 64% had been disowned by their families; 27% of lesbians also reported disownment. There is also the common, foolish misconception that being gay immediately equates to paedophilia. White local males tend to have a very macho outlook on life and few will have had any contact (knowingly) with gays, and it’s not uncommon to hear anti-gay jokes and comments voiced in public.

There are no gay clubs or bars and there are very few, if any, that can be described as gay-friendly. If you want to be in a club with other gay or lesbian people, it is best to make arrangements beforehand. It is not known what the HIV prevalence rate is among the local gay community but you are advised to use protection at all times, since the prevalence is likely to be higher than in the general population, which itself has much higher rates than in the West.

Contact GALZ  (Gays and Lesbians of Zimbabwe) for more information and advice.

Travelling with children

Zimbabweans love children and are generally extremely accommodating and helpful to families; and the country is without doubt an exciting place for children to see wildlife up close, bringing those television nature programmes dramatically to life. However, if you are planning a holiday to include a significant amount of wildlife viewing there are a number of issues to take into consideration. First, you’ll need to check whether there is a minimum age at the places you want to stay. Minimum age limits vary between six and 16 years old. If on a walking safari in a dangerous game area, the usual lower limit is firmly set at 12 years old.

The age limits are set in place for good reasons: in wildlife-rich areas, animals routinely enter the unfenced grounds of safari camps/lodges, so children will need constant supervision. When out on safari, close encounters with wildlife are naturally very exciting for children – however, noisy and impulsive reactions are likely to startle wildlife and thereby jeopardise the enjoyment, or even the safety, of everyone. You’ll often find game drives catering separately for people with children. One tip — pack one pair of binoculars for each child; it will keep them interested and engaged during any trip to a game park.

Second, a typical wildlife-viewing day has several hours of ‘down time’ between morning and evening activities and since safari camps tend by their very nature to be in remote areas, some children may get bored.

Several lodges and companies are introducing special sections of their properties for families travelling with young children, replete with specially designed rooms, creative activities, specialist guides and flexible schedules to enable you to enjoy your time together to the fullest. Inter-connected rooms on raised platforms, walkways to main areas, extra staff to assist, and private game drive vehicles are some of the facilities being added to entice families to travel together. Babysitters are also now often on call in many camps. 

Disabled travellers

People with physical disabilities may find it rather difficult to enjoy many of the popular attractions of Zimbabwe. Towns are usually fairly navigable by wheelchair, although pavements can be uneven and frequently non-existent, with only the alternative of travelling on the side of the road itself, which may very well be pot-holed. Many people will feel distinctly uneasy at this prospect, given traffic volumes and the fact that drivers feel they have an absolute right of way. Crossing roads can be an issue as there are frequently deep storm gullies requiring a detour to the next ‘bridge’. Dropped curbs exist in a few of the larger towns but even here they seem to be completely unplanned so you never know where the next one will be.

Although most upmarket town-centre accommodations and facilities are wheelchair-friendly and becoming increasingly so, many of the wildlife-related venues are in remote areas and specifically designed to blend in with natural surroundings that do not readily lend themselves to wheelchair access. In practical terms this means there can be long distances between chalets and the central guest area and paths can be steep, often involving flights of steps, areas of sandy ground, rock-strewn paths and all manner of obstacles. Many lodges do, however, have relatively accessible accommodation facilities in the rooms closest to the main building.

The point that has frequently been made to us is that virtually everyone comes for the wildlife viewing but people with physical disabilities cannot be catered for as the vehicles used are completely inaccessible to them. Therefore there is – they reason – no necessity to make adaptations to their buildings or grounds. The problem with this approach is that it assumes that everyone with a disability is completely physically incapable. Access to these high, open wildlife-viewing vehicles can indeed be difficult, requiring a degree of agility to climb in, but with assistance a lot of folk can manage it. 

Travel and visas in Zimbabwe

Visas and entry requirements are subject to change and you should always contact the Zimbabwean embassy or consulate in your country for the latest information. Zimbabwe government websites may not be up to date and should not be relied upon. 

You may or may not require an entry visa, depending on your nationality. If you do need one you may be able to purchase it on entry to Zimbabwe, otherwise you have to obtain it in advance – again, this depends on your nationality. 

Nationals of 45 countries including the following do not require visas: Angola, Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Botswana, Cayman Islands, Cyprus, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Fiji, Ghana, Grenada, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, Singapore, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, South Africa, Tanzania, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Island, Uganda, Zambia.

Nationals of 90 countries including the following may buy a visa on arrival: Albania, Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bermuda, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Russian Federation, South Korea, Spain, State of Palestine, Sweden, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, UK, USA, Venezuela.

Nationals of 80 countries including Bangladesh, Guyana, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand require a visa to be obtained before travel. This can be obtained by visiting a Zimbabwe consulate or you can do it online. Note that you can only buy a single-entry visa.

KAZA tourist Univisa Zimbabwe and Zambia have reintroduced a KAZA tourist Univisa costing US$50 which allows visitors of 65 nations to cross between the two countries as often as they like during the 30-day validity. It also allows day visits to Botswana via Kazungula but not overnight stays.

Getting there and away

At the time of writing, Emirates and Ethiopian Airways were the only longhaul carriers flying into the country, with flights between Harare and Dubai, and Harare and Addis Abba respectively. As a result, many overseas passengers fly to Johannesburg, connecting the same day to Harare, Victoria Falls or Bulawayo.

In early 2016, the greatly enlarged, new Victoria Falls airport terminal with lengthened runway opened its doors. This major enhancement allowed it to accept large capacity aircraft and it is hoped that it will become a potential competitor to Johannesburg as a major regional hub, although we still wait to see which major international airlines actually commit to using it. Flights between Cape Town and Victoria Falls are increasingly available.

The government has announced ambitious but fanciful plans to refurbish and reopen airports across the country, from Masvingo and Chiredzi to Hwange and Nyanga, but little has currently happened on this front beyond over-hyped press announcements. 

South African Airways  operates daily direct to Harare, Victoria Falls and Bulawayo with a flight time of around 2 hours. British Airways (Comair) flies daily direct to Harare and Victoria Falls. Air Zimbabwe  also operates daily flights to Harare and Bulawayo. 

Several luxury, air-conditioned coach services regularly ply the route between Johannesburg and Bulawayo and Harare, with a driving time of approximately 13 and 17 hours, respectively. Most operate mainly during daylight hours, but a couple are overnighters. Given the hazards and the standards of Africa’s roads, our inclination would be to choose a daylight service whenever possible.

When driving from South Africa, most people feel (usually wrongly) they are committed to entering at Musina/Beitbridge. Although the border is open 24 hours, allow a lot of time for formalities at this very busy border so that, once through, you still have at least an hour’s daylight to reach the first possible overnight accommodation on the way to Masvingo or Bulawayo.

The Zimbabwe side of the border has an appalling record for confusing signage, horrendous queues and notorious ‘helpers’, ‘facilitation agents’ or more accurately unofficial touts, who ‘offer’ to speed you through the process at an exceptionally high price of several hundred dollars. The more you use these persistent rip-off artists, the more you encourage them. But if you don’t use them you can queue for hours.

This situation has been allowed to continue for many years due to the rampant corruption at this border post which clearly goes right to the top. However, you can usually dramatically cut your delays here by arriving at the border before 09.00, preferably avoiding weekends. In order to alleviate the hassle of negotiating this place, ZTA has instigated a system whereby given prior notice of your arrival, they will meet you and escort you through the whole process.

If you are heading from South Africa to Victoria Falls or Bulawayo, you can completely avoid the hassle at Beitbridge by crossing into Botswana at Groblers Bridge/Martins Drift and entering Zimbabwe at Plumtree, Pandamatenga or Kazungula. Plumtree, although busy, brings you in close to Bulawayo; Pandamatenga is convenient for the northern part of Hwange and Victoria Falls (4x4s only); and from Kazungula you have a pleasant 50-minute drive to Victoria Falls. 

Getting around

With the drastic reduction in Air Zimbabwe’s routes, they currently operate just one daily flight covering Harare/Bulawayo/Victoria Falls. The African lowcost airline fastjet operates Harare to Victoria Falls, and Harare to Bulawayo with no frills (ie: everything charged extra).

A number of private, light-aircraft charter operators are now available to fill some of the gaps. However, these have been set up mainly to service the ‘high end’ remote camps and their fares are pitched accordingly. In 2019, Safari Logistics launched a daily flight service (with a minimum of two passengers) connecting Mana Pools, Kariba, Harare, Victoria Falls and Hwange. They use a variety of light aircraft, with several stops along the way, but, because it’s charged by the seat, this service is much cheaper than individual charters. One hopes the uptake will make it an enduring facility.

Self-driving is really the only way for truly independent travellers to get around. It gives you the freedom to plan your own route, itinerary and accommodation, and eat wherever you like, and you can visit areas that few tourists have even heard of.

Zimbabwe is an easy, friendly and pleasant country to drive in. Its network of tarred roads is in quite good condition, due largely to light traffic volumes during a decade of fuel shortages although pot-holes are emerging quite rapidly so caution is always advised. There was a spurt of road improvement in 2014 that resulted in the resurfacing of the road from Plumtree all the way across country to Mutare via Bulawayo and Harare.

Petrol and diesel are no longer easily available anywhere in the country at the time of writing, and long queues are now the norm. If you hire a car, the company should be able to help you source fuel in the main cities. In Harare and Bulawayo, there are garages selling fuel for US$ only, although even there supplies remain erratic.

A thriving black market in fuel dealing has grown although if you decide to buy from unregistered operators, be aware that the fuel may be riddled with contaminants, including water, that may damage your engine. Always check the quality before allowing anything to be poured into your tank. If you are unsure, rather reject it than risk a breakdown. Even if you need low sulphur (50ppm) diesel it may be best to take what you can get rather than running dry. Of course, you should check in the vehicle handbook to see if this is an option.

When to visit Zimbabwe

When to visit.

Zimbabwe offers a generally very pleasant year-round climate, but the best time to visit depends on which activities you wish to pursue and which regions you want to visit.

For more itineraries see the  Zimbabwe safari holidays on SafariBookings .

For wildlife

To maximise wildlife viewing, the dry, winter months of July–October are the best. In the dry season, natural water sources become scarce in the bush, encouraging game to congregate around a relatively small number of artificially pumped pans or waterholes near lodges and specific game-viewing areas.

In the summer rains, surface water is generally abundant so animals get all they need in more natural circumstances, but as the game becomes dispersed you will tend to see far less. At this time of year, vegetation becomes much more luxuriant, acting as an effective screen severely restricting your view into the bush. 

If your interest is in birdlife, Zimbabwe offers excellent all-year viewing but the summer months are outstanding as the count swells considerably with the arrival of migrants. Think in terms of 650 species countrywide. Some safari camps and national parks close down altogether in the wet period immediately after New Year.

For waterfalls

Victoria Falls will no doubt feature in your first visit. During and after the rains in the Zambezi catchment area in March–June, the falls are full and totally awesome. But your experience consists of massive amounts of thundering spray and little else. It can be virtually impossible to see anything of the actual waterfalls. In the dry season (the time most visitors arrive for wildlife viewing) the water volume is reduced to a relative trickle over some of the cataracts, but you are rewarded with awesome views of the gorges and their fascinating geological structure. For the best of both worlds, visit in June to August even though this is a little early for prime wildlife viewing. 

For watersports

For Zambezi river-based adrenaline activities such as whitewater rafting and kayaking, the low water levels during winter (August–January) are best. At high water (May–July, January–March), rafting is restricted to the lower run of rapids, numbers 11–23, as the river is too full and fast for the complete series. After very heavy rains (March–April), these activities are prohibited altogether until water levels subside. Please note that the above dates are totally dependent on rainfall levels in the catchment area so can vary considerably.

Kariba and the Zambezi Valley offer water-based activities, boating and canoeing year-round, but these are best enjoyed outside the hot, humid summer months. 

What to see and do in Zimbabwe

Chizarira national park.

Chizarira weighs in at 1,920km², Zimbabwe’s third-largest national park. It’s in the northwest of the country, just south of Lake Kariba, and with its escarpment, deep gorges and pristine forests it is, in many people’s eyes, the most scenically beautiful and dramatic park of all. The average elevation is around 1,000m, rising to 1,433m at the summit of Tundazi Mountain. It was proclaimed a non-hunting reserve in 1958, and the national park was established to give sanctuary to wildlife driven out of the valley by the rising waters of Lake Kariba.

Chizarira shares a reputation with Gonarezhou as a true wilderness area. Its name derives from the Tonga word sijalila (‘great barrier’), a reference to the mighty and near-vertical 500m Zambezi Escarpment. The park encompasses no fewer than seven ecological zones, ranging from lowveld valley vegetation to highveld broadleaf woodland. From the escarpment the Zambezi valley floor extends southwards through rolling hills and valleys to merge with the low-lying Busi region. Springs and seeps provide water and surprisingly lush pockets of vegetation between ridges of mountain acacia and the red-plumed Prince-of-Wales feathers plant, often cultivated for its edible seeds. Down on the floodplain you’ll find a remarkable similarity to Mana Pools, with towering evergreens and lush vegetation surrounding deep pans.

For the past several years, the condition of the roads and the high incidence of poaching were two limiting concerns for visitors to the park. The good news is that from early 2018, three organisations have committed to working with National Parks to bring Chizarira back to its former glory. UK-based nonprofit National Park Rescue and Zimbabwean non-profit Bhejane Trust are rebuilding the roads and training and assisting with anti-poaching patrols. The African Lion and Environmental Research Trust (ALERT) is leading a lion research project and assisting with the upgrade of some facilities. Several roads have been reopened and marked in the north of the park with plans to expand this upgrade throughout the park. A 4×4 is still recommended for all visitors and there are plans to create challenging trails specifically for 4×4 enthusiasts.

Although the condition of the roads is improving, most remain rugged. Indistinct tracks, washed-out riverbeds, deep ruts and rocky inclines, and trees pushed over by elephants all make for a difficult driving experience. In the wet summer months the park stays open for visitors but many roads and tracks are impassable, with generally only Muchene and Kaswiswe camps accessible. Having said that, the main road from the northern entrance south to Lesulu is well maintained throughout the year, as this is the main access route for rangers on anti-poaching patrols.

Accommodation is another limiting factor. There is currently no lodge accommodation anywhere near the park so camping is the only option, and you need to be completely self-sufficient. Nevertheless, there are some stunning places to overnight, and small thatched shelters at several of these sites mean that you can often do without a tent, at least in the dry season.

Finally, in times past, this quiet and somewhat cash-starved park gained an unfortunate reputation as a free-for-all for poachers. While the anti-poaching work is beginning to have a positive effect, the remaining elephants remain in a pretty aggressive frame of mind, so they should be treated with even more caution than those in Hwange and Gonarezhou. Much of the other wildlife is skittish and fearful. There used to be a large population of black rhino here but after most had been poached the few remaining individuals were captured and relocated to Matusadona.

While this is not yet a park with heavy concentrations of game, there are good populations of leopard, lion and hyena, and plenty of food for them in the form of buffalo, impala, tsessebe, sable, kudu, roan and other buck. The park also features high on the list for enthusiastic birdwatchers, who come here to find, among its estimated 368 species, African broadbill, yellow-spotted nicator, Livingstone’s flycatcher and emerald cuckoo. The rare Taita falcon has been seen flying and roosting around the cliffs in the escarpment area, and it’s in the forested parts of the park near the entrance gate that the brilliantly colourful yet inconspicuous African pitta, almost a holy grail for birders, has occasionally been seen hopping around in the undergrowth. All in all, Chizarira’s real strength is as a destination for hikers and others who want to experience one of southern Africa’s rapidly dwindling, truly wild and rugged places.

One of the best ways to explore this park is with a safari operator who will take you walking deep into the wilderness where few tourists ever go. The most experienced guide operating in this area is Leon Varley of Leon Varley Walking Safaris who considers this to be his ‘home park’. It’s also possible to hire a park ranger as a guide (it will be in your own vehicle), but to be sure of availability you should book in advance from National Parks headquarters in Harare.

Gonarezhou National Park

At a fraction over 5,000km², this is Zimbabwe’s second-largest national park, established in 1975. The name translates from Shona as ‘place of elephants’. The river floodplains are interspersed with lagoons and riverine forest featuring notable species such as the nyala berry tree, ebony and Natal mahogany. The arid hinterland comprises mopane woodland and ironwood forest, as well as the succulent shrub, the Sabi star, which grows on rocky outcrops and has a lovely pink flower. These varied habitats are responsible for the richest biodiversity of any Zimbabwe national park. Gonarezhou has the biggest variety of birds in the country – over 400 species, with a further 92 listed as ‘likely to occur’ – but do note that birding on foot is not allowed without a registered guide. The most scenically dramatic areas are along the Runde River with the majestic, red sandstone Chilojo Cliffs being the most iconic feature. Here, the seasons present two very different aspects – in the dry winter months your photographs will show the cliffs towering over the parched river bed with elephant marching from one side to the other and made miniature by the sheer size of the geography. When the river’s in flood though, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in a different park altogether. This is a huge river system that transforms a dry, apparently lifeless landscape into a lush and verdant wildlife paradise.

The game has had a difficult time of it in the past. Elephants, along with much of the other ‘game’, suffered from widespread hunting and poaching in the early 20th century, and later from Mozambican troops who during their civil war treated Gonarezhou as a food source and a sporting paradise. The sport consisted of terrorising all and any game by shooting from both ground vehicles and helicopters. To make matters worse, widespread poaching continued late into the last century by neighbouring communities who continued to resent the incursion of the national park into their traditional lands. This history has given Gonarezhou a reputation of being short on wildlife and many Zimbabweans (few of whom have visited the park recently) still think this is the case. Many also believe that GNP’s elephants are not only scarce but notoriously ill-tempered and dangerous as a direct result of their continued persecution. Inevitably in a park of this size, poaching continues to exact a toll, but there is now a great deal of good news too.

In operation since 2017, the Gonarezhou Conservation Trust is now directly responsible for management of the park (and will be for the next 20 years). The improvements so far have been incredible and, presuming they continue as they seem certain to do, showcase a management model that benefits the entire surrounding community, and which could revive and reinvent national parks across the continent. 

Gonarezhou is also part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area, encompassing Kruger National Park in South Africa and Limpopo National Park in Mozambique, offering the prospect of opening up the border fences and allowing game to migrate over much larger areas. This project has not yet reached completion, with a number of funding issues to be resolved, as well as the not inconsiderable problem of the perfectly reasonable unwillingness of GNP’s elephants to set foot in Mozambique territory. They do indeed have good memories.

Keen birders will want to spend several days in this park, which boasts an impressive list of specials, including African finfoot, bat hawk, racket-tailed roller, thick-billed cuckoo and Pel’s fishing owl, to name just a few. As this park has predators, birders on foot must employ a National Parks or registered guide. 

Harare is one of the most laid-back capitals in the world. With so many great restaurants, friendly and helpful citizens, easily accessible tourist sites and fabulous accommodation options, it remains a favourite ‘best-kept-secret’ diplomatic posting for many embassy staff, despite their generous ‘hardship’ allowances.

After the difficult decade of 2000–2009, and following the introduction of the unity government, Harare’s tourism sector began to pick itself up with a degree of optimism. But that effect was temporary and was soon to be superseded by the rapidly deteriorating economic situation which saw many businesses fall by the wayside, and the desperate water and power supply situation was only making matters worse. Even now though, Greater Harare (estimated population 2.2m) is a very pleasant town with plenty of parks and open spaces, wide streets lined with jacaranda and flamboyant trees, and pedestrian areas with upmarket shops and craft markets. It enjoys a thriving arts scene with galleries and museums, trendy restaurants and nightclubs; in fact pretty well everything you would expect in a capital city. But today you can’t help noticing the general feeling of decline in parts of the CBD. Traffic congestion, together with the closing down of many shops and restaurants and an increase of informal traders, has turned Harare into a city of two parts. The wealthy folks are still in town but over the years they have migrated to the leafy suburbs to the north where you’ll be surprised at the obvious affluence reflected in the beautiful private properties and the upmarket shopping centres that service them.

The city centre still has some attractions of interest to the visitor but generally speaking you’ll be drawn to the suburbs such as Avondale and Borrowdale for the best accommodation, shopping and dining. 

One of the finest national parks in Africa, Hwange contains a remarkable diverstiy of wildlife, including one of the largest elephant populations on earth © Paula French, Shutterstock

Hwange National Park

Hwange ranks among the top national parks in Africa in terms of size, and sheer numbers and variety of game, along with excellent viewing and accommodation facilities. If this trip to Zimbabwe is your first experience of African wildlife viewing, Hwange is the perfect place to start your quest for the ‘Big Five’, before moving on to other equally rewarding animals. With over 108 species, Hwange boasts the highest diversity of mammals of any national park in the world, including 19 large herbivores and eight large carnivores. One of the largest elephant populations on Earth – numbering anywhere between 20,000 and 75,000 in the peak dry season – ranges between Hwange and neighbouring Chobe in Botswana. Over 400 species of birds have been recorded here, including around 50 types of raptor.

Hwange today is part of the KAZA (Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area) region, the largest conservation area on the planet. The park was included because of its incredible biodiversity.

Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba, one of the world’s largest manmade expanses of water, is Zimbabwe’s ‘seaside’ in a landlocked country, and tends to be viewed more as a holiday destination for locals than for overseas visitors. The lake features its own accommodation speciality, the houseboat, so Zimbabweans flock here with family and friends for fishing, boating or just to chill out with a crate or eight of beers (although ‘chill out’ may be misleading in this area of stifling summer temperatures and humidity).

If you let Zimbabweans have this vast area to themselves, however, you’ll be doing yourself a great disservice. Kariba is a laid-back holiday playground with a wide choice of water- and land-based activities. The area provides some stunning scenery and the big-sky sunsets over the lake are legendary, attracting keen photographers worldwide. There can be few better ways of lowering your blood pressure than a sunset boat cruise, weaving through the eerily stark treetops that remain a full half-century after the river was dammed. Its southern shore forms the northern border of Matusadona National Park so it’s a brilliant base for wildlife viewing and birdwatching, both of which can be done on land or from small boats or canoes that allow you to approach within metres of bathing elephant and buffalo slaking their thirst.

If you find a houseboat too big for your needs, or you prefer to stay on dry land,  there are some fine lodges along the east and southern shores catering for most budgets. 

Mana Pools National Park is deservedly one of Zimbabwe’s most popular wildlife destinations © Claudio Soldi, Shutterstock 

Mana Pools National Park

Entry to this park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is strictly controlled by the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority. Prior booking is essential, through an operator or directly with ZPWMA.

The park is actually part of a much larger wildlife area adjacent to Sapi and Chewore safari areas to the east, also bordering the Zambezi. Not only is Mana Pools richly stocked with game and blessed with outstanding scenic, riverine beauty but it is also relatively little visited, at least compared with Hwange and Victoria Falls. This is one of the few national parks where visitors are allowed to walk at their own risk along the floodplain but while this is welcomed by enthusiasts with plenty of bush experience, it is most advisable for inexperienced visitors to be accompanied by an armed professional guide or a national park ranger. Probably because of its outstanding qualities as a game-viewing destination, this park is home territory to some of Africa’s finest professional guides.

Limited fishing is allowed, but only from land. Motorboats are not permitted in the dry season because of noise, pollution and wave action disturbing the wilderness qualities of the park. A thorough ‘Respect the Wild’ code of conduct for visitors to Mana Pools and other wild areas is displayed at accommodation points throughout the park; visitors are advised to take heed of its advice to get the best out of their wild experience and to ensure they leave the area as they found it. A fine of US$1,000 may be applied if you are found in breach of the regulations. In 2012, this was the first of Zimbabwe’s national parks to adopt the excellent ‘carry in – carry out’ rubbish policy, which has been rigidly enforced. You are asked to burn anything combustible on your campfire but for non-combustible materials you will be given a plastic bag and expected to deposit it at an urban centre away from the park. There are no disposal facilities at the exit of the park and if you leave your rubbish there you will be fined.

There are no shops, and cellphone coverage is very limited. Accommodation is restricted to a handful of safari lodges and eco-friendly tented or mobile camps as well as self-catering national park chalets. Camping on the banks of the Zambezi River is a feature of the Mana experience.

The park is open to cars during the dry season but during the rainy season roads are frequently closed. Access to the interior of the park is restricted to the main road to Nyamepi Parks HQ from December to March. The best time to come here in terms of temperature and rainfall is March to October.

Owing to the fact that this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an integral part of the UNESCO Middle Zambezi Biosphere Reserve and a designated Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, the area has recently been saved from a proposal to mine for heavy metals that were thought to be deposited in the park’s riverbed. There remains a long-term potential threat for its future because of plans for the Mupata Gorge hydro-electric scheme that would flood the entire area for electricity generation. At present, focus is on the Batoka Gorge Dam while funding is unlikely to be forthcoming for development in this area. Check the Zambezi Society’s website  for updates as well as advice for visiting this area in a responsible, ecologically aware manner. 

Matobo National Park

Less than an hour’s drive south of Bulawayo lies one of Zimbabwe’s, if not southern Africa’s, most dramatic rock landscapes. To describe this area, which includes the Matobo National Park, as a place of outstanding natural beauty is something of an understatement. Copywriters struggle to convey the geological majesty of the place, with adjectives from ‘rugged’ and ‘domineering’ to ‘spiritual’ and ‘weird’.

Granite is the building material and weather the artist. The area gets your attention with two completely different rock forms, both the result of the same geological processes. Most dramatic are the balancing rock kopjes: huge angular blocks of granite piled on top of and beside one another, forming pillars and stacks, like a giant child’s building blocks. Most dramatic in scale, however, are the massive, bald dwalas or ‘whalebacks’, grey granite hills rising from the surrounding woodland and criss-crossed with fault lines, some so intricate they look like giant hieroglyphics. Matobo, in fact, is translated as ‘bald heads’, allegedly coming from a joke made by King Mzilikazi.

Hundreds of caves and rock shelters created by the same weathering processes were later inhabited and painted by descendants of the world’s most ancient peoples; indeed this is one of the few areas in the world proven to have supported continuous human occupation for over 40,000 years. 

Nyanga National Park

The park and the Nyanga Highlands rise to 2,592m at Mount Nyangani, Zimbabwe’s highest point. The area (314km²) is characterised by rolling hilltops studded with huge, smoothly rounded granite outcrops towering over steep gorges and wide valleys. The Pungwe River has carved a spectacular route southwards and eastwards from the foot of Mount Nyangani, while further south the Honde River has created a wide fertile valley beneath the dominating escarpment along the border with Mozambique. Zimbabwe’s highest waterfall (and Africa’s second-highest), the Mtarazi Falls, drops 762m into the Honde Valley.

This part of Zimbabwe has been populated since the dawn of humanity and today is rich in archaeological sites, including remnants of Iron Age villages and hilltop forts. There are three principal villages in the region: Juliasdale, west of the Nyanga National Park; Nyanga to the northwest; and Troutbeck close by in the north. Excellent tourist accommodation, from camping to luxury, is scattered throughout the area, and numerous roads and dirt tracks give access to remote, breathtaking viewpoints. The dirt roads here are in better shape than some further south, but you will still benefit from a high-clearance vehicle, and a 4×4 in the rainy season.

Hikers and birders are drawn to this area, and fishing is a big pull for many, with rainbow and brown trout in the many rivers, streams and reservoirs. There is a variety of game in the national park, including blue duiker and samango monkeys, but it is sparsely distributed and hard to spot. You are most likely to spot klipspringer, reedbuck, wildebeest, zebra, bushbuck and kudu, notwithstanding imaginative reports of sightings of lion and buffalo, which do not actually occur in the area.

It won’t take long before you come across the name Cecil Rhodes (the national park is still often referred to as Rhodes Inyanga). He actually bought a large chunk of the area for himself and built a house overlooking – you guessed it – Rhodes Dam; this is now the Rhodes Nyanga Hotel.

Spectacular though this area is, it would be unrealistic not to mention the extensive commercial forestry here. Depending on growing and harvesting cycles you may find yourself driving through mile upon mile of monotonous plantations or past blackened hillsides full of smouldering tree stumps. Illegal fires in the winter season also burn off the grasslands in the park, despite the best efforts of the rangers to stop such events. 

Victoria Falls

Every single commercial tourist itinerary to Zimbabwe includes Victoria Falls – and quite rightly too. The town is famous for its magnificent waterfall, which is not only a World Heritage Site but is listed as one of the ‘Seven Natural Wonders of the World’. As if that wasn’t enough, it supports a huge array of adrenaline-fuelled activities from the famous white-water rafting to bungee-jumping and gorge swinging. Tamer activities are also being popularised, including game drives, boat cruises, historical explorations and outdoor fine-dining experiences.

Even today, with Zimbabwe having suffered 20 years of political and economic strife, it’s difficult to imagine a more complete African tourist destination than Victoria Falls (commonly referred to as ‘Vic Falls’ or simply ‘the Falls’). As well as the adrenaline sports, both aerial and waterborne, the area offers a wealth of traditional wildlife-based and cultural attractions. While some visitors seek excitement others still prefer the genteel life of yesteryear, with starched waiters, afternoon tea on manicured lawns or sipping gin and tonics on a peaceful river cruise serenaded by grunting hippos.

Make no mistake, tourism has turned this far western tip of the country into a very un-Zimbabwe-like place, but its relative isolation coupled with its revenue earning reputation has left it less affected by the political troubles and interference experienced elsewhere in the country. It is testament to the commercial nous of the operators here that while the rest of the country has once again entered into economic freefall, many sectors of the Victoria Falls tourist industry have stayed buoyant, even flourishing. Although many small operators have fallen by the wayside, others have amalgamated or built on specific strengths and grown their markets.

They have of course been helped by their location, which has allowed daytrippers to flock in from neighbouring countries, notably Zambia and Botswana, sampling a little of Zimbabwe’s treasures without actually staying here. Some tour groups cross the bridge from Zambia for better views of the falls without even realising they’ve entered Zimbabwe. 

But if commercialisation has turned the place into something of a tout’s paradise, don’t let this put you off: this small, laid-back town (locals refer to it as ‘the village’) has somehow retained its charm and character. It has a casino or two and some glitzy hotels, but it’s certainly no Las Vegas. You’ll struggle to find a shop in the town centre that isn’t in some way related to tourism – apart from the supermarkets, you have to venture into the industrial area to source anything as mundane as hardware. Population estimates vary widely but it is currently in the region of 50,000. The continued economic success of this town at a time of rapidly deepening economic woes in the rest of the country seems to have led to a recent and ongoing influx of people hoping to join in the ‘boom’.

No introduction to the Falls would be complete without mentioning the original inhabitants – the animals. Warthogs dodge cars while rooting around in traffic islands and verges, with vervet monkeys always on the lookout for morsels left unattended on your plate or in your campsite. Baboons patrol the town, nonchalantly sharing the pavement with you, especially along the road to the Victoria Falls Hotel; but hang on to your bag of fruit and never be tempted to feed them. Elephants refuse to respect the presence of houses on their traditional trails, and view gardens, swimming pools and vegetable patches as fair game, lazily pushing down concrete walls in the process. They’ve been known to wander through town checking out the vehicles in the supermarket car park, while the cricket club reluctantly built a wall to stop elephants strolling across the wicket in mid-innings. So don’t for one moment treat these animals as if they are Jungle Book characters. There are usually at least two human fatalities per year down to elephants raiding the high-density suburbs, while close encounters with leopard and buffalo downtown are still fairly common at night-time.

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Welcome to Great Zimbabwe Guide Travel Blog

Celebrating the great things about zimbabwe.

Great Zimbabwe Guide gives honest travel tips, information and inspiration about Zimbabwe in southern Africa. It was founded by Beth, a Zimbabwean in the UK. W e share real-life stories of Zimbabwe’s people, wildlife, safari, adventure, cities, photography and culture. 

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Zimbabwe Travel Guide

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Zimbabwe Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Zimbabwe. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Updated   Global Polio August 20, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, The Gambia, Uganda, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African sleeping sickness (african trypanosomiasis).

• Tsetse fly bite 
• Avoid Bug Bites

African Trypanosomiasis

African Tick-Bite Fever

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite
• Avoid animals

Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever

• Touching infected animals (including bats and primates) or their body fluids
• Touching body fluids (blood or sweat) from an infected person
• Touching objects contaminated with the body fluids of a person infected with Ebola or Marburg virus
• Avoid sick people
• Avoid animals and areas where they live

Marburg virus

Rift Valley Fever

• Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Zimbabwe, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Zimbabwe. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Zimbabwe include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Zimbabwe. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Zimbabwe’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Zimbabwe. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Zimbabwe may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Zimbabwe, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Zimbabwe.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Zimbabwe for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Welcome to Zimbabwe!

Inspiring hearts, enriching souls, feel different., before travelling.

Welcome to the Magnificent Zimbabwe: A Land of Wonders! This page invites you to embark on a virtual journey through the vibrant and enchanting country of Zimbabwe. Get ready to explore a land where nature’s grandeur meets ancient civilizations, where wildlife roams free, and where captivating adventures await at every turn.

Zimbabwe is a gem nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, boasting a tapestry of experiences that will ignite your senses and leave you in awe. From the thundering majesty of Victoria Falls to the untamed wilderness of national parks, this country offers a diverse range of attractions that will captivate even the most seasoned traveler.

Join us as we delve into the breathtaking wonder of Victoria Falls, where the mighty Zambezi River plunges into a chasm, creating a mesmerizing display of mist and rainbows. We’ll take you on a virtual safari through Hwange National Park, where you can witness elephants roam freely and lions prowl in their natural habitat. Explore the ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe and uncover the mysteries of a once-thriving civilization. Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Mana Pools National Park and experience unforgettable encounters with wildlife.

But Zimbabwe is not just about nature’s spectacle. The country’s rich cultural heritage will leave you fascinated and inspired. Discover the rock art treasures of Matobo National Park, where ancient stories are etched in stone. Escape to the Eastern Highlands, a region of misty mountains and cascading waterfalls, where tranquility and serenity reign supreme.

Through captivating stories, stunning visuals, and valuable insights, we aim to transport you to the heart of Zimbabwe, igniting your wanderlust and inspiring your future adventures. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a seeker of remarkable experiences, Zimbabwe has something special in store for you.

So, fasten your seatbelt and prepare to be immersed in the wonders of Zimbabwe, right from the comfort of your screen. Let us be your guide as we uncover the extraordinary beauty and cultural richness of this remarkable country. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the captivating wonders of Zimbabwe.

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TravelZimbabwe.org is a comprehensive tourism portal and advisor for Zimbabwe, designed to provide travelers with all the information they need to plan a perfect trip to the country. The website offers a wealth of information on Zimbabwe’s culture, history, attractions, and activities, as well as practical tips on visa requirements, transportation, and accommodations. TravelZimbabwe.org is dedicated to promoting tourism in Zimbabwe and showcasing the best the country has to offer. With expert advice and insider tips, TravelZimbabwe.org is the ultimate guide for anyone planning to visit Zimbabwe.

Disclaimer: TravelZimbabwe.org is an independent travel advisor and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency or organization. We provide travel assistance services to individuals who are planning to travel to Zimbabwe. Our services are designed to help travelers navigate the complex travel requirements and procedures, and our team of experienced professionals provides personalized support to ensure that travelers have a seamless and hassle-free travel experience. Please note that TravelZimbabwe.org is not a substitute for official government resources or processes, and we strongly advise travelers to refer to the relevant government websites and resources for the most up-to-date and accurate information.