Overview of Zimbabwe
For a small, landlocked country in southern Africa, Zimbabwe offers an astounding variety of natural beauty and spectacular scenery. The country holds great appeal for active adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts and anybody with an appreciative eye for beauty.
Famous sights include the majesty of the iconic Victoria Falls, the giant marble-like boulders of the Motopo Hills, the verdant mountains of the Eastern Highlands, the national parks teeming with wildlife, and the Great Zimbabwe ancient ruins. Zimbabwe's capital city, Harare, is also impressive in many ways.
The Victoria Falls are Zimbabwe's most popular tourist destination and one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Their mile-wide (2km) curtain of water plunges deep into the Zambezi Gorge creating a cloud of mist that can be seen up to 20 miles (32km) away.
This area is renowned for being the 'adventure capital of Africa', offering a variety of high adrenaline activities, including one of the wildest days of whitewater rafting on earth, and a 364-foot (111m) bungee jump into the Zambezi River gorge from the bridge linking Zimbabwe to Zambia. If you'd rather lie back and relax, there are scenic flights over the area, game viewing adventures, and tranquil sundowner cruises above the falls.
Wildlife flourishes in the untamed wilderness of the Zambezi Valley, in national parks, and on the shores of Lake Kariba, where hippo, crocodile, buffalo, rhino, elephant, and lion roam freely. Remote and protected wildlife reserves line the banks of the Zambezi River and the region offers some of the finest canoe safaris in Southern Africa, particularly the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Mana Pools, which is renowned for its outstanding variety of game.
The saltpans and grassy plains of Hwange National Park support one of the largest concentrations of animals in the world, and is the largest game reserve in the country. Lake Kariba is treasured as a source of hydro-electricity, as well as for its fishing resources. It is a beautiful stretch of water studded with islands and the sun-bleached branches of dead trees, surrounded by mountains and forests. Houseboats offer a wonderful opportunity to relax and take in the spectacular sunsets, enjoy a variety of watersports, and spot the vast quantities of game attracted to the lake, including huge Nile crocodiles and hippos.
The ongoing social and political unrest in Zimbabwe, together with an exceptionally weak economy, has deterred many potential travellers from visiting Zimbabwe and experiencing some of the most breathtaking scenery and first-class game viewing safaris in Africa.
Although visitors to the country are urged to exercise caution at all times and to remain aware of recent political developments, the main tourist areas, and national parks in particular, have been largely unaffected by the political situation, being far from the main cities where much of the instability exists.
Ivory poaching, particularly of Black Rhino horn, has become a significant challenge for conservationists. In a desperate attempt to attract business, many game lodges are offering extremely competitive prices to travellers.
Key Facts
- Language:
- English is the official language in Zimbabwe, although it is only spoken as a first language by a tiny percentage of the population. Several indigenous languages are spoken including Shona and Ndebele.
- Passport/Visa:
-
All visitors require travel itineraries, tickets, and documents for return or onward journeys, as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay. Visa fees, where applicable, are payable in US dollars. Fees vary depending on nationality and type of visa. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. If travelling on business, you'll also need multiple copies of a letter from your company and an invitation letter from a Zimbabwean company, both on company stationery.
- Currency:
-
The de facto official currency is the US Dollar (USD). The Zimbabwe Dollar (ZWD) was effectively abandoned as the official curency in early 2009 after runaway inflation. The South African Rand (ZAR) and British Pound (GBP) are also sometimes accepted.
Major international credit cards are accepted in most of the larger hotels, restaurants and shops. Many smaller establishments still do not have credit card facilities. Diners Club and American Express are often not accepted. ATM facilities, dispensing USD, are available in the cities, although in smaller towns and rural areas you'll need to bring cash.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 220-240 volts, 50Hz. Three-pin rectangular blade plugs are common.
Travel to Zimbabwe
Overview
Zimbabwe is blessed with a host of globally-recognised touristic gems, mostly of the natural variety, beckoning outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers. The two most famous areas to visit in Zimbabwe are the incomparable Victoria Falls (on the western border), and the wide expanse of Lake Kariba (on the northwestern border).
In both cases, wondrous natural features have ensured the development of tourist hubs which are comparatively safe for visitors, boast plentiful activities and attractions, and offer well-developed amenities.
Victoria Falls alone justifies travelling to Zimbabwe, with the Zambezi River, where the falls are located, also famed for its high-volume whitewater rafting adventures. Lake Kariba is a favourite playground for fishermen and boaters, particularly renowned for its house boating potential.
Of course, Zimbabwe is also home to diverse wildlife and some game viewing is a must during a visit to the country. The Matusadona National Park, which incorporates Lake Kariba, is a good option for animal sightings. Other popular game parks include Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park and Matobo Hills National Park. Keen bird watchers will find the Honde Valley and Eastern Highlands well worth a visit.
Culturally, the most popular attraction in the country is Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 11th century. Exploring the well-preserved ruins of this mysterious ancient culture is thrilling.
Climate in Zimbabwe
The climate in Zimbabwe is sub-tropical with a summer season of about eight months (October to April), with hot, sunny days the norm. Summer daytime temperatures range around 86ºF (30ºC) in the main centres, though the low-lying areas such as the Zambezi Valley, Kariba, and Victoria Falls tend to be hotter, and there is always a possibility of an afternoon thunderstorm.
The Zimbabwean winter climate is pleasant, with warm, dry days from June to August (though temperatures do drop more extremely at night) and the average temperature is around 68ºF (20ºC). Rain occurs mostly between November and March in Zimbabwe, though rainfall patterns do vary according to region.
The best game viewing time is during the months of August, September and October: this is the dry season when animals congregate at the waterholes. The best time of the year for white water rafting on the Zambezi is September, October, and November.
Health Notes when travelling to Zimbabwe
Travellers to Zimbabwe who are coming from infected countries require a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid are recommended. A high prevalence of AIDS/HIV exists in Zimbabwe. There is a risk of malaria all year in most of the country, particularly in the Zambezi Valley, Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park and in the Eastern Highlands; the risk is very small in Harare and Bulawayo. Mosquitoes are chloroquine resistant. Precautions against mosquito bites should be taken to avoid any number of mosquito-borne diseases. Cholera outbreaks occur usually during the rainy season when flooding and contamination of water sources takes place. Rapidly declining health standards are also responsible for Zimbabwe having one of the lowest life expectancies in the world, according to the World Health Organization. Visitors are advised to take food and hygiene precautions. The standard of tap water in urban areas is considered low,
and bottled water is available. The current economic instability has led to shortages of medication in public hospitals, and striking is common; it is advisable to bring a supply of personal medication. Medical insurance is essential. Private clinics expect cash payment and medical costs can be high.
On 6th September 2018, a Cholera outbreak was declared in Harare. The situation is being monitored by the World Health Organisation. Visitors are advised to seek the advice of a health professional before traveling.
Safety Notes when travelling to Zimbabwe
There have been violent protests in Zimbabwe in January 2019, and the current situation is unsettled. Tourists are advised to exercise caution, and to monitor news and travel advice websites for updates. Note that access to internet has been disrupted and some apps may not be available. Visitors should avoid political activity, demonstrations, and rallies. There is a moderate level of crime. Thus it is wise to use taxis and hire cars to avoid walking the city streets alone at night.
Victoria Falls is considered the most safe and well-policed of Zimbabwe and the majority of visits are hassle-free. The resort areas around Lake Kariba are also considered to be safe, especially on guided tours and package holidays.
*In March 2019, the Tropical Cyclone Idai hit Zimbabwe, causing significant flooding and mud slides, especially across the eastern parts of the country. Roads and bridges have been affected, as have electricity, water and telecommunications. Visitors travelling to affected regions should follow advice given by local authorities. They are also advised to check prior to travel that their hotel is still open, and they should monitor local and international weather updates.
Customs in Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe it is against the law to take photographs of public buildings or government institutions, and it is not advisable to take photographs anywhere in the vicinity of such buildings, or any roadblocks and illegally occupied farms, as this could lead to arrest. It is also illegal to take photographs of police and military personnel, as well as of demonstrations. It is a criminal offence to make insulting comments about President Mugabe and his government. It is also an offence to continue driving when the President's motorcade goes past, no matter which side of the road you are on. Visitors should be aware that an open hand is the political symbol of the main opposition political party, the Movement for Democratic Change, and a friendly wave may therefore be misinterpreted as a provocative gesture. Homosexuality is illegal. Civilians are not permitted to wear camouflage clothing.
Duty Free in Zimbabwe
Travellers to Zimbabwe do not have to pay duty on items to the value of US$200 provided this allowance is not claimed more than once in a 30-day period. These include goods for personal consumption, including tobacco, and alcohol up to 5 litres with no more than 2 litres of this being spirits. Prohibited items include narcotic and amphetamine drugs, indecent or obscene reading material, toy firearms, and blade knives.
Doing Business in Zimbabwe
Business in Zimbabwe is conducted in English, and is fairly informal, with drinking and socialising very much part of the business scene. Dress is fairly conservative, but lightweight suits or casual jackets are more suited to the hot climate than formal business wear.
It is customary to shake hands with men and women at the beginning and end of a meeting. Business hours are generally Monday to Friday, 8am to 4.30pm, although hours vary considerably depending on the establishment; some businesses close at 11am on Wednesdays, and some are open on Saturday mornings.
Communication in Zimbabwe
The international dialling code for Zimbabwe is +263. Local mobile phone operators provide network coverage in most cities, towns, and tourist areas throughout the country. Internet facilities are available in most towns and cities, but internet cafes are often crowded.
Tipping in Zimbabwe
A service charge is usually included in the bill in Zimbabwe, otherwise a 10 percent tip is customary for staff in restaurants, hotels and taxis. In general, tipping for good service is discretionary. Some tour guides and game rangers depend largely on tips for their income.
Passport/Visa Note
All visitors require travel itineraries, tickets, and documents for return or onward journeys, as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay. Visa fees, where applicable, are payable in US dollars. Fees vary depending on nationality and type of visa. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. If travelling on business, you'll also need multiple copies of a letter from your company and an invitation letter from a Zimbabwean company, both on company stationery.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
-
US passport holders must have a passport valid for at least the duration of their stay. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
-
Passports must be valid for at least the period of stay in the country. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
-
Passports must be valid for at least the period of intended stay. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
-
Australian passport holders must have a passport valid for at least the period of stay in the country. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
-
Irish nationals require a passport valid for at least the period of intended stay. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
-
New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for the period of intended stay. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
-
South Africans must have a passport valid for at least the period of stay in the country. A visa is not required for stays of less than 90 days.
Tourist Offices
Official tourism website of Zimbabwe: http://www.zimbabwetourism.net
Zimbabwe Embassies
- In the United States:
-
Zimbabwe Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 332 7100.
- In Canada:
-
Zimbabwe Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 421 2824/1242.
- In the United Kingdom:
-
Zimbabwe Embassy, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 (0)20 7836 7755.
- In Australia:
-
Zimbabwe Embassy, Canberra ACT, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 (0)2 6286 2281/2700.
- In South Africa:
-
Zimbabwe Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 342 5125.
Foreign Embassies in Zimbabwe
- American Embassy
-
United States Embassy, Harare: +263 (0)4 250 593.
- Canadian Embassy
-
Canadian Embassy, Harare: +263 (0)4 252 181/2/3/4/5.
- British Embassy
-
British Embassy, Harare: +263 (0)4 338 800
- Australian Embassy
-
Australian High Commission, Harare: +263 (0)4 853 23 555.
- Irish Embassy
-
Honorary Consulate of Ireland, Harare +263 (0)4 771 949.
- New Zealand Embassy
-
New Zealand High Commission, Pretoria (also responsible for Zimbabwe): +27 (0)12 435 9000.
- South African Embassy
-
South African High Commission, Harare: +263 (0)4 760 404.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Zimbabwe
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hide Vaccines and Medicines
Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor (ideally, 4-6 weeks) before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need.
| | Find Out Why | Protect Yourself |
All travelers You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel. |
| Routine vaccines | Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. |   |
Most travelers Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting. |
| Hepatitis A | CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Zimbabwe, regardless of where you are eating or staying. |  |
| Malaria | You will need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you, and also talk to you about other steps you can take to prevent malaria. See more detailed information about malaria in Zimbabwe. |   |
| Typhoid | You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Zimbabwe. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater. | |
Some travelers Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US. |
| Hepatitis B | You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures. |   |
| Rabies | Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Zimbabwe, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups: - Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
- People who are taking long trips or moving to Zimbabwe
- Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
|  |
| Yellow Fever | There is no risk of yellow fever in Zimbabwe. The government of Zimbabwe requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission. For more information on recommendations and requirements, see yellow fever recommendations and requirements for Zimbabwe. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans. | |
All travelers
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Zimbabwe, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You will need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria. Your doctor can help you decide which medicine is right for you, and also talk to you about other steps you can take to prevent malaria. See more detailed information about malaria in Zimbabwe.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Zimbabwe. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Zimbabwe, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
- Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
- People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
- People who are taking long trips or moving to Zimbabwe
- Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Zimbabwe. The government of Zimbabwe requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
For more information on recommendations and requirements, see yellow fever recommendations and requirements for Zimbabwe. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans.
Key
- Get vaccinated
- Take antimalarial meds
- Eat and drink safely
- Prevent bug bites
- Keep away from animals
- Reduce your exposure to germs
- Avoid sharing body fluids
- Avoid non-sterile medical or cosmetic equipment
Top
Hide Stay Healthy and Safe
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.
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
- Food that is cooked and served hot
- Hard-cooked eggs
- Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
- Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
- Food served at room temperature
- Food from street vendors
- Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
- Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
- Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- ”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
- Bottled water that is sealed
- Water that has been disinfected
- Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
- Carbonated drinks
- Hot coffee or tea
- Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
- Tap or well water
- Ice made with tap or well water
- Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
- Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Hide 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.
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
- DEET
- Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
- IR3535
- 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.
Hide 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.
- Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
- 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.
Hide 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.
Hide 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.
Hide 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.
Hide 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.
Hide 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.
Walking
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.
Flying
- 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.
Hide 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 warnings 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.
Hide Top
Hide 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.
Top
Hide Travel Health Notices
There are no notices currently in effect for Zimbabwe.
Top
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.
Top
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The de facto official currency is the US Dollar (USD). The Zimbabwe Dollar (ZWD) was effectively abandoned as the official curency in early 2009 after runaway inflation. The South African Rand (ZAR) and British Pound (GBP) are also sometimes accepted.
Major international credit cards are accepted in most of the larger hotels, restaurants and shops. Many smaller establishments still do not have credit card facilities. Diners Club and American Express are often not accepted. ATM facilities, dispensing USD, are available in the cities, although in smaller towns and rural areas you'll need to bring cash.
Harare International Airport (HRE)
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport
http://www.caaz.co.zw
Location: Harare The airport is situated around nine miles (15km) from Harare.
Time: Local time is GMT +2.
Contacts:
Tel: ++263 24 258 5004
Getting to the city:
Taxis and shuttle buses are available to the city centre.
Car rental:
Car rental companies include Europcar and Avis, among others.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis to central Harare are available.
Facilities:
Facilities include a bank, bureau de change, smoking areas, medical services and a pharmacy, restaurants, bars, duty-free, various shops, and post office.
Parking:
There is parking close to the terminal.
Victoria Falls Airport (VFA)
Victoria Falls Airport
http://www.caaz.co.zw
Location: The airport is situated 13 miles (22km) south of Victoria Falls town.
Time: Local time is GMT +2.
Contacts:
Tel: +263 (712) 411704
Getting to the city:
There is no public transport from the airport to the nearest town. Visitors are advised to book a driver or hotel transfer prior to landing, or one can hail a taxi or hire a car on arrival.
Car rental:
Europcar and Budget offer car hiring services at the airport.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
Facilities include banks, bureau de change, restaurants, bars, VIP Lounge, duty free shop, tourist help desk, and first aid.
Parking: There is plentiful parking close to the terminal.
Bulawayo Airport (BUQ)
Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport
Location: Bulawayo The airport is about fifteen miles (24km) north of central Bulawayo.
Time: Local time is GMT +2.
Contacts:
Tel: +263 24 258 5004
Getting to the city:
There are no bus or train services from Bulawayo Airport but you can take a taxi or rent a car to get into town.
Car rental:
Car rental companies at Bulawayo Airport include Avis and Europcar.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
Bulawayo Airport has ATMs, a bureau de change, and a number of restaurants. The airport has recently undergone renovations.
Parking:
There is extensive parking at the airport.
Overview of the Attractions in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is blessed with a host of globally-recognised touristic gems, mostly of the natural variety, beckoning outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers. The two most famous areas to visit in Zimbabwe are the incomparable Victoria Falls (on the western border), and the wide expanse of Lake Kariba (on the northwestern border).
In both cases, wondrous natural features have ensured the development of tourist hubs which are comparatively safe for visitors, boast plentiful activities and attractions, and offer well-developed amenities.
Victoria Falls alone justifies travelling to Zimbabwe, with the Zambezi River, where the falls are located, also famed for its high-volume whitewater rafting adventures. Lake Kariba is a favourite playground for fishermen and boaters, particularly renowned for its house boating potential.
Of course, Zimbabwe is also home to diverse wildlife and some game viewing is a must during a visit to the country. The Matusadona National Park, which incorporates Lake Kariba, is a good option for animal sightings. Other popular game parks include Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park and Matobo Hills National Park. Keen bird watchers will find the Honde Valley and Eastern Highlands well worth a visit.
Culturally, the most popular attraction in the country is Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 11th century. Exploring the well-preserved ruins of this mysterious ancient culture is thrilling.
Kariba
Located in the north of Zimbabwe near the Zambian border, Kariba is the Zimbabwean centre for the tourist industry orientated around the magnificent Lake Kariba. It is also a good base from which to explore surrounding game reserves and attractions in northern Zimbabwe such as Mana Pools, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It's also useful as a stopover en route to Zambia. The town has a number of restaurants, casinos, quality resort hotels, and safari lodges, not to mention a number of large luxury houseboat hotels which use Kariba as a base.
The airport at Kariba town is small, but regular flights to Kariba come in from Victoria Falls and Harare. The town is also only about four hours from Harare by road. Once there, the town is easily walkable, or you could make use of local taxis.
Lake Kariba itself is one the largest manmade lakes in the world. It powers the hydroelectric Kariba Dam in the Zambezi River Basin, which provides much of Zambia and Zimbabwe's electricity. The large dam walls are an impressive sight, and worth a day trip.
Such a large body of water attracts a multitude of game, especially in the dry seasons, so the game reserves bordering the dam make for excellent game viewing. Lake Kariba has a thriving commercial fishing industry and is also a world-renowned tiger fishing spot. The annual tiger fishing contest attracts teams from around Southern Africa and beyond every year.
Because of its size and the abundance of wildlife it attracts, Lake Kariba is ideal for a safari holiday. You can travel the lake by canoe or on a houseboat for several days at a time, camping on the shore at night at designated spots as you go.
For a more relaxed lake trip, hire a luxury cruiser or join a tour guide group for a day. The lake is no less impressive for being manmade: there are lots of islands and thousands of tiny inlets to explore. The Matusadona National Park, with its iconic half-submerged forest still standing after the lake was flooded half a century ago, is a favourite with photographers.
Victoria Falls
The majestic Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), is located on the Zambezi River, between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Explorer David Livingstone named the falls after Queen Victoria when he first saw them in 1855. One of the seven natural wonders of the world, the falls have been attracting travellers and adventure-seekers for decades, its pounding waters creating a mist that can be seen for miles and the sound of the falls, especially in the rainy season (November to April) making it difficult to hear anything else. There is a trail that runs along the cliff adjacent to the waterfall which visitors can use to reach the scenic viewpoints; a helicopter tour is another phenomenal way to see the falls from above. Guided tours are available, and there are opportunities to bungee jump (one of the world's highest) and white water raft down this section of the Zambezi. It is impossible to visit the Victoria Falls without being blown away by its
beauty and power, and both Zimbabwe and Zambia are justifiably proud of this great wonder.
Website: victoriafallstourism.org/
Matobo Hills
The granite formations in Matobo National Park contain rock art and San artefacts that date back thousands of years. Surrounded by huge rock formations and delicately balanced boulders, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a scenic place to see game like white and black rhinos, leopards, zebras, monkeys and much more. One of the strangest, but most fascinating attractions in Matobo Hills is the lizard feedings that take place three times daily at World's View, which is also where Cecil John Rhodes is buried. Although the game viewing can be spectacular, this area is mainly fascinating because of its ancient cultural remnants, making it a particularly exciting Zimbabwean attraction for those interested in rock art.
Website: http://www.zimparks.org
Devil's Pool
A popular but somewhat risky Vic Falls attraction is Devil's Pool, a naturally formed swimming spot right on the edge of the falls. The pool is only safe to swim in between September and December (and not always, even in these months), when the river flow is at the right level, but even then this is quite a daring adventure and not for the faint hearted. Aside from the thrill of swimming on the edge of the falls, Devil's Pool is also a great spot for those once-in-a-lifetime holiday photos. Ferries from Livingstone Island take visitors to this exciting attraction whenever the water levels are deemed safe enough, however this activity is predominantly accessible only from the Zambian side of the Falls.
National Parks
There are three primary national parks to explore while on holiday in Vic Falls - the Victoria Falls National Park, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park on the Zambian side of the falls and, about 120 miles (193km) further south, the Hwange National Park. These parks feature a vast selection of wildlife including elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra and various antelope; there are also occasional sightings of lion and leopard. There are a number of operators in Vic Falls town offering safaris to these national parks, as well as elephant-back safaris on Nakavango Estate and the 'walking with lions' experience at Masuwe Estate.
The Victoria Falls National Park incorporates the iconic falls - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - and is therefore an absolute must for travellers in the region. Apart from the falls, and the gorgeous rainforest beneath, the national park includes varied landscapes populated by diverse game, including the Big Five: elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard and rhino.
The Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is situated along the upper Zambezi River, on the Zambian side, and also incorporates part of Victoria Falls. Travellers will find that crossing the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia at Victoria Falls is generally very pain-free as border officials are totally accustomed to people popping over for a few hours to view both sides of the falls. Naturally both countries want to encourage tourism.
The largest game reserve in Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park, covers more than 5,637 square miles (14,600 sq km) of land in the western tip of Zimbabwe, near the Kalahari Desert. The park contains large numbers of gemsbok, hyena, African wild dogs, and elephants, and safari lodges within Hwange offer a range of safaris either on foot, by 4x4, or on horseback.
Mana Pools National Park
Mana Pools National Park has a split personality: it incorporates a vast expanse of flat, arid land which becomes a broad expanse of glorious lakes after each rainy season, which lasts from November to April. Animals follow the pools in search of water, and as the lakes dry up Mana Pools National Park is one of the best places in the country to view game like elephants, hippos, crocodiles and buffalo as they make the most of nature's bounty before it disappears. Mana means 'four' in Shona, and refers to four permanent pools in the middle Zambezi that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Far from any human settlement, Mana Pools National park is a great place to experience a truly wild Zimbabwe.
Website: http://www.zimparks.org
Great Zimbabwe
The capital of Zimbabwe during the Iron Age and dating back to the 11th century, Great Zimbabwe was home to the royal palace and an estimated 18,000 people in its heyday. At some point the city was abandoned, and now it stands empty and ruined, with its most prominent features being the mighty stone walls that reach 16 feet (5m) high, and the famous Zimbabwean Birds that were perched on top of eight monoliths around the city. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ruins are majestic and impressive, and form the largest ancient structure south of the Sahara Desert. Exploring the ruined city is extremely thrilling; it is a mysterious place, inviting flights of the imagination and with a palpable sense of age.
Public Holidays in Zimbabwe
| |
2020 |
2021 |
| New Years Day |
Wed. January 1 |
Wed. January 1 |
| Independence Day |
Fri. April 18 |
Fri. April 18 |
| Good Friday |
Thu. April 10 |
Wed. April 2 |
| Easter Monday |
Sun. April 13 |
Sat. April 5 |
| Workers' Day |
Thu. May 1 |
Thu. May 1 |
| Africa Day |
Sun. May 25 |
Sun. May 25 |
| Heroes' Day |
Sun. August 10 |
Sat. August 9 |
| Defence Forces Day |
Sun. August 10 |
Mon. August 11 |
| Unity Day |
Mon. December 22 |
Mon. December 22 |
| Christmas Day |
Thu. December 25 |
Thu. December 25 |
| Boxing Day |
Fri. December 26 |
Fri. December 26 |
