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ZIMBABWE TRAVEL – TRAVELING TO ZIMBABWE

Planning an African safari and thinking about traveling to Zimbabwe? This guide will tell you all you need to know for a smooth, unforgettable journey.

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in southern Africa, noted for its spectacular landscapes, wonderful wildlife and Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world.

You may track the Big Five at game parks, discover ancient ruins and stand in the mist of the falls. That said, it’s good to be prepared.

Watch for stuff like civil upheaval, petty theft, animal safety.

Respect local regulations and take basic health precautions, such as malaria pills and bug repellent.

With a bit of planning, you’ll get to enjoy Zimbabwe’s natural beauty and rich heritage. Here’s what traveling here really involves.

Traveling To Zimbabwe by Air

Flying is usually the quickest way to get to Zimbabwe. Here’s what to know.

Airports In Zimbabwe

These include.

Harare International Airport (HRE): Zimbabwe’s largest airport, just outside Harare. It handles international flights from across Africa and connections through Johannesburg.
Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA): Serves Vic Falls, one of the country’s top tourist spots. You’ll find daily flights from Johannesburg with South African Airways, Airlink, and British Airways.
Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Airport (BUQ): In Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second city. Flights come in from Johannesburg with SAA and Air Zimbabwe.

Airlines Flying to Zimbabwe

Some of these include.

Air Zimbabwe: The national airline, running domestic and regional flights to places like Johannesburg, Bulawayo, and Vic Falls.

South African Airways: Connects Johannesburg to Harare, Vic Falls, or Bulawayo, plus onward links across Africa.

South African Airlink: Flies from Johannesburg to Harare and Vic Falls.

KLM: Offers direct flights from Amsterdam to Harare, sometimes stopping in Lusaka or Nairobi.

Emirates: Flies Harare-Lusaka and Harare-Dubai.

Air Namibia: Connects Windhoek to Vic Falls.

Ethiopian Airlines: Direct to Harare and Victoria Falls from Addis Ababa.

Kenya Airways: Connects Nairobi to Harare and Bulawayo.

Domestic Airports or Airstrips

These include.

Hwange National Park Airstrip: Serves the popular reserve.

Mana Pools Airstrip: Located inside Mana Pools National Park.

Many safari lodges have their own airstrips, usually reached by charter flight.

Domestic Airlines | Flights in Zimbabwe

Fastjet: A domestic carrier operating within Zimbabwe.

Solenta Aviation: Links international arrivals to tourism hubs and safari lodges across the country.

Popular Routes

Harare to Vic Falls: The preferred route for tourists travelling to the falls.

Harare to Bulawayo: Connects the capital to the second largest city.

Victoria Falls to Johannesburg: Popular with visitors and business travelers.

Immigration, Entry, And Exit, Zimbabwe Visa Requirements

These consist of.

Visa: Required for most travelers. Available on arrival or online application.

Passport: Valid for a minimum of 6 months and minimum 3 blank pages.

Yellow Fever Certificate: Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever.

Safe Air Travel Tips

Keep a close check on local news and be on the lookout for signals of civil upheaval.

Comply with local rules and regulations.

Ask your doctor about immunizations and malaria medicine before you travel.

Getting the basics right makes your arrival by plane seamless and stressfree.

Traveling To Zimbabwe by Land/Road

Coming in by road gives you a real taste of Southern Africa. You can drive through South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, or Mozambique and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Border Crossings

Beitbridge: Main crossing with South Africa. Expect crowds and delays.

Plumtree: On the Botswana border, good for reaching western Zimbabwe.

Victoria Falls: Links Zimbabwe and Zambia via the Vic Falls Bridge. The views are spectacular.

Kazungula: Another crossing with Botswana.

Pandamatenga: Also into Botswana.

Chirundu: Connects to Zambia. Kariba: Another Zambian crossing.

Forbes: In Mutare, on the Mozambique border.

Nyamapanda: Also borders Mozambique.

Zimbabwe Land Transport Choices

By Car: You can either solo drive or hire a car with driver.Fuel is available but often at higher prices than in neighbouring countries.Expect bumpy roads, potholes and the odd barrier.

By Bus: There are regular luxury buses from Johannesburg to Harare and Bulawayo. Other companies go from Harare to Blantyre, Malawi.

Popular operators include:

Intercape: Direct from Johannesburg to Harare.

Greyhound: Serves Harare and Bulawayo.

You’ll also find buses from Windhoek, Namibia, to Harare via Victoria Falls.

Cross-Border Requirements for Land Travel to Zimbabwe Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from date of expiration.

Visa: Check if you require a visa.It can also be obtained at the border by some nationalities.

Personal Documents: If driving, carry your International Driving Permit and vehicle paperwork.

Safety Tips for Land Travel

Conditions of the road vary.
Expect rough spots, slick parts, and obstructions.
Try to avoid driving at night.
Learn the local traffic rules.
Hide valuables and be vigilant.
Apply insect repellent to prevent bug-borne infections.
Many game parks are remote and need a 4×4.

With the right prep, overland travel can be a great part of your Zimbabwe adventure.

Traveling To Zimbabwe by Train

Traveling by train in Zimbabwe is slow, but it’s a unique way to see the countryside. Here’s what to know:

Railways | Train Operators

National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ): Provides passenger and freight services.
Rovos Rail: Luxury train on spectacular travels e.g. Bulawayo to Vic Falls.
Botswana Railways: Connects Bulawayo with Francistown and Gaborone.

Popular Routes

Harare – Bulawayo:Links capital and second city.
Harare to Vic Falls: A favorite for tourists, with countryside views.
Bulawayo to Vic Falls: Classic overnight route through Hwange National Park.
Bulawayo to Francistown: Daytime service into Botswana.
Francistown to Gaborone: Overnight sleeper to Botswana’s capital.
Maputo to Bulawayo: Weekly service from Mozambique, often called the “Ghost Train” or Limpopo line.

Train Types

Sleeper Trains: Equipped with beds and compartments for overnight travel. • Daytime Trains: Seats only for shorter trips

Service Levels

Economy Class: Basic seat.
Sleeper Class: Compartments with berths.
Luxury Class: Rovos Rail with the best facilities and views

Booking and Prices

NRZ: Buy tickets at the station on the day. A 16-hour sleeper trip starts around $3.
Rovos Rail: Book luxury journeys in advance on their website.
Botswana Railways: Book online. Day trips start around 70 BWP, about $9.

Requirements for Entry on a Train

Visa:Check requirements for your nationality and entry place.
Documents:Retain a valid passport and any required documentation.

Tips for Safe Train Travel

Keep up to current with local news and travel advisories. • Ask your doctor about immunizations and malaria prevention.
Keep emergency contacts and embassy details handy.

Train travel in Zimbabwe is an experience in itself if you have the time and patience.

Top Tourist Places/Destinations in Zimbabwe & Getting There/Around

When you get to this nation, these are some of the ways to get around some famous destinations, i.e.

1) Victoria Falls

One of the world’s largest waterfalls, over 1.7 km wide and more than 100 meters high. The spray can be seen for miles.

You can go white-water rafting, bungee jumping, take sunset cruises, or explore nearby Zambezi National Park.

Getting there: Fly into Victoria Falls International Airport, or drive from Harare or Bulawayo. Rovos Rail runs a luxury train from Pretoria, South Africa. Buses also run from Harare and Bulawayo.

Getting around: Walk; taxis/hotel shuttles.Activities can be booked via vehicle rental or via tour transfers.

2) Zambezi National Park

This park is located just outside Vic Falls on the banks of the Zambezi River. Perfect for elephants, lions, giraffes and more.

Activities include game drives, sunset cruises, walking safaris and boat outings.

Getting there: Fly to Victoria Falls Airport and transfer by road or drive from Vic Falls town, some 5km distant.

Getting around: Take guided game drives, boat safaris, canoe expeditions or walking safaris. Always use trained guides.

3) Mana Pools National Park

A wild, inaccessible park in northern Zimbabwe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Zambezi River generates four permanent ponds which attract large herds of elephants, buffalo and other species throughout the dry season.

You can do game drives, canoe safaris, boat trips, and walking safaris. Guided walks are recommended.

Getting there: Fly into Harare or Vic Falls, then take a charter to Mana Pools’ airstrips. By road, it’s 7–8 hours from Harare via the Harare-Chirundu Road.

The park is remote with limited facilities, so plan carefully and take wildlife precautions.

4) Eastern Highlands in Zimbabwe

A mountainous region along the Mozambique border, notable for rolling hills, forests, peaks and waterfalls. It contains the Nyanga, Chimanimani and Bvumba ranges.

Highlights include Zimbabwe’s highest peak Mount Nyangani and Mtarazi Falls, one of Africa’s tallest waterfalls.

Activities: hiking, birdwatching (300+ species), trout fishing, and horseback safaris.

Getting there: Drive from Harare – around 4 hours to Nyanga National Park and 6 hours to Chimanimani. There are also charter flights.

5) Great Zimbabwe

Ancient stone ruins from the 11th–14th centuries, including the Hill Complex, Great Enclosure, and Valley Ruins.

It’s 27km southeast of Masvingo. Get there by road — catch a local combi from behind TM Pick n Pay or take a taxi. Entry is about $15 for foreigners.

Transportation Options for Getting Around These Places in Zimbabwe

SelfDrive: You are welcome to bring your own vehicle or rent a car.You’ll need a valid license, insurance, safety gear – reflectors, triangles, spare tire, fire extinguisher.

Guided Tours: A lot of providers will provide packages which include transport, accommodation and activities.

Public Transportation: Buses and minibus taxis connect towns, however service is sparse and unreliable in rural areas.

Private Transfers: Book a shuttle for an easy ride.

Domestic Flights: Quick way to bounce between major hubs like Harare and Victoria Falls.

Lodge Hops: Many lodges and safari companies may arrange shuttles between camps and attractions.

Safety Hints

Travel via public transit and hitchhiking with caution.
Carry some local currency for fares.
Major roads are decent, but expect roadblocks and police checks.

With these options, getting around Zimbabwe’s highlights is straightforward.

Additional Travel Information for A Successful Zimbabwe Safari Trip

Here are other key things to consider before you go.

Zimbabwe Exit and Entry Requirements

They include but a few

Passport Requirements

Valid for at least 6 months after your departure date.

Must have at least 3 blank pages for stamps.

2) Zimbabwe Visa Requirements and Types of Visas (E.g., Business Visa, Tourist Visa)

Most visitors need a visa. Types include:

Tourist Visa: Get it on arrival or online. Valid 30 days, extendable to 90 days. Costs: $30 single entry, $45 double entry, $160 multiple entry for 12 months.

Business Visa and Work Permit: Can’t be extended inside Zimbabwe. You must leave and re-enter or apply for a new one.

Other visas for living, working, studying, or investing should be arranged through the Department of Immigration before arrival.

Entry Requirements

Show a valid passport, a visa if needed, a return ticket, and proof of funds. You can bring in unlimited currency, but you must declare over $2,000 when leaving.

A yellow fever certificate is required if coming from an affected country. Make sure you get an entry stamp — you’ll need it when you leave.

Exit Requirements

Valid visa and all paperwork. Don’t get into trouble, declare currency over USD $2,000. Check your departure date for overstay charges.

5) Additional Travel Documents

Work Permit: Required for employment, volunteer or missionary work.

Emergency Travel Documents: If your passport is lost, submit a police report.

X Gender Passports: Accepted in Zimbabwe, but you should check with any other countries you’re traveling.

1. Zimbabwe Currency Rules

The local currency is the Zimbabwean Gold (ZiG), although US dollars are regularly utilized.
Other acceptable currencies: South African rand, Botswana pula, pound, euro.
Cash is king. Cards are not generally accepted and charges are hefty.
Bring enough cash with you, because ATMs often don’t operate with foreign cards.
Only change money at licensed banks or bureaux de change.

Travel Advice

Keep documents current and follow local guidance.
Understand the laws surrounding cash, customs and immigration.
Prepare for possible shortages of cash and basic goods.

For the latest info, check with the Zimbabwean Department of Immigration, or your nearest embassy.

Health (Stay Healthy)

Stay healthy on your trip with these precautions:

Routine Vaccines

Be current on MMR, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella, meningococcal, flu, etc.

Pre-Travel Vaccines and Medications

Consult a travel clinic for yellow fever, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, COVID-19, flu, and malaria.

Safe Food and Water Quality

Eat hot prepared meal. Avoid raw or undercooked products.
Boil or bottle water for drinking.
Do not eat ice unless you are sure it is made from clean water.
When swimming, don’t get river or lake water in your eyes, mouth, or nose.

Tick And Insect Bite Prevention

Use bug spray containing DEET on exposed skin.
Wear loosely woven, light-colored clothing that fits well.
Use a mosquito net when outside or in open lodging.

Person-To-Person Infections

Wash your hands frequently.
Wear a mask if you are sick or in crowded places.
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
Use condoms or stop to prevent STIs.
Do not touch ill persons.

Medical Services | Medical Facilities

Few facilities especially outside the main cities. • Buy travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and hospital fees.

Care is pre-paid.

6) Medical Facilities | Medical Services

Facilities are scarce, especially outside big cities.
Purchase travel insurance that includes medical evacuation and hospital expenses.
Expect to pay in advance for care.

Specific Health Hazards

Malaria: Take anti-malarial medicines, and use nets and repellent.

HIV/AIDS: If sexually active, use caution.

Other outbreaks: Watch out for cholera, typhoid, and TB.

Avoid contact with sick people.

Air Quality – Air quality can be bad in cities. If you have trouble breathing, use a mask.

9) Medical Insurance (Medical Evacuation)

Ensure your coverage includes evacuation to a country with better care. Seek additional coverage for emergency transport.

10) Travel Insurance

Be covered for cancellations, delays , and interruptions. See if it includes the adventure activities you want to do.

Medical Tourism

Zimbabwe isn’t set up for complex medical procedures. If you need care, research reputable facilities first.

Medications | Pharmaceuticals

Bring enough prescription meds for your whole trip.

Keep them in the original packaging with your prescription.

Check that your meds are legal in Zimbabwe.

For malaria tablets, you may need to start several days before travel and continue after.

Animal Precautions

Avoid stray dogs, livestock, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Don’t eat undercooked meat.

Additional Health Tips

See a healthcare provider before you travel.
Stay updated on local health alerts.
Take malaria tablets as directed — before, during, and after your trip.

These steps help you stay safe and enjoy your safari.

Safety And Security

This encompasses.

Border Security and Measures

Watch for protests or demonstrations.
Avoid them — they can turn violent. Avoid political discussions. They can be seen as illegal.
Follow local news and instructions from authorities.
Steer clear of risky border areas, like near Mozambique and Lupane district.

Landmines

Some border areas still have landmines. Stick to marked paths and trails.

Crime

Petty crime, like pickpocketing and bag-snatching, happens. Stay alert.
Don’t walk alone at night. Keep valuables secure.
Cover your PIN at ATMs and avoid using them in isolated spots.

Violent Crime

Armed robbery and assault can occur, especially after dark.
Don’t carry large amounts of cash.
Keep car doors locked and windows up to avoid “smash and grab” theft.

Civil Unrest and Demonstrations

Protests can turn violent.
Stay away and monitor the media.
Follow police instructions.

Fraud

Be careful with debit and credit cards.
Check statements for fraud.
Be skeptical of unsolicited business offers.

Tourism

Keep a safe distance from wildlife — most are dangerous.
Use professional guides and tour operators.
Follow park rules and your guide’s instructions.

Travel by road

Drive defensively.
Watch for people, animals and risks.
Go for established safari providers.
Follow traffic laws and traffic lights.

Essential Services

Power and water disruptions can persist for weeks, especially in urban areas. Mobile signal and data can be sketchy.

Consular assistance

In crises such as medical concerns and crime, your embassy can assist.

Emergency numbers: 999 for fire, ambulance and police.
Harare Central Police Station: 0242 777 777. Always get a police report if you are a victim of a crime. Keep your insurance company’s 24-hour emergency number nearby.
Emergency numbers: 999 for fire, medical, and police.
Harare Central Police Station: (0242) 777 777. Always get a police report if you’re a victim of a crime.

Keep your insurance provider’s 24-hour emergency number handy.

International Child Abduction

Zimbabwe follows the Hague Convention.

If your child is taken to or kept in Zimbabwe unlawfully, you can apply for their return.

Talk to a lawyer in your home country and in Zimbabwe.

Cyber Security

Be careful on public Wi-Fi. Protect your devices and data.

Avoid posting about local politics on social media — it can lead to arrest.

Natural Disasters

Flooding is common in the rainy season, from November to April.

Expect service disruptions. Secure your passport and follow local media.

Swimming Safety

Avoid swimming in lakes and rivers due to:

Waterborne Diseases: Like bilharzia and other parasites.

Wildlife Attacks: Hippos and crocodiles are a real risk.

Terrorism

The global threat applies. Stay alert and follow local advice. Avoid conflict areas.

Domestic Abuse

General safety tips:

Be aware of your surroundings, don’t walk alone at night, keep your room locked, don’t show off your wealth.

Follow these tips for a safer, more enjoyable vacation

Infrastructure | Road Safety and Conditions

This means.

Public Transportation in Zimbabwe

limited and often unreliable.
Commuter buses, known as combis, are typically overcrowded, poorly maintained, and without insurance.
Drivers lack caution.
The railway network is under-developed and accident-prone.

Caravans

All cars have to give way to official motorcades even on the other side of a dual highway.
Security forces may intimidate if not stopped.

Road Safety in Zimbabwe.

The main issues are :

Excessive Speed
Poorly maintained roads and vehicles • No street illumination
Animals on roadways
Security inspections and checkpoints

Road Conditions

Roads are often narrow with potholes and sharp dips.
Animals are loose on main roadways.
Dont drive at night owing to low visibility.

Zimbabwe on the go

Drive left.
Possess a valid license and an International Driving Permit.
Safety gear: fire extinguisher, emergency triangles.
Keep your tank full – there are fuel shortages.
Prepare for police document checks and fine collection points.

Local Traffic Laws

No phone use without hands-free while driving.
Seatbelts and motorcycle helmets required.
Car seats for kids aren’t legally required.
Drunk driving laws exist, but aren’t strictly enforced.

Infrastructure | Communication

Mobile reception and data can be unreliable.
Power and water outages are common.

Plan accordingly and you’ll manage fine

Local Laws and Culture in Zimbabwe

Some of the indigenous laws that govern the nation include.

Illegal Drugs

Don’t use or carry illegal drugs, including marijuana.
Penalties are severe — long jail time and heavy fines.
Drug laws are strictly enforced.

Monitoring Media

Follow local news to stay aware of safety issues or disruptions.

Exports

There are rules about exporting wildlife products and semi-precious stones.
Get the right permits for anything you plan to take home.

LGBT Travelers

Same-sex relationships are illegal. LGBT travelers may face discrimination or detention. Be discreet and cautious.

Women Travelers

Avoid walking alone at night and stay aware of your surroundings. Respect local customs.

Culture and Respect

Learn local etiquette.
Clapping twice shows thanks.
Use your right hand to give or receive things.
Avoid public displays of affection or political talk.

Photography

Don’t photograph government buildings, military sites, airports, or official residences like the President’s Office at Munhumutapa Building without permission.

Check for restrictions in certain areas.

Personal Identification

Carry your passport, visa, and documents with you. Keep a photocopy of your passport separate in case it’s lost or taken.

Zimbabwe Currency

Know the local currency and exchange rates. Protect your money and valuables.

Pornographic Material

Possession or import is illegal in Zimbabwe.

Penalties

Breaking laws might include penalties, incarceration, or deportation. Be vigilant to avoid issues.

Wild Animal Parts

Regulated trading or ownership of wildlife items. Get permits if required.

Faith-Based Travelers and Students

Be respectful to local customs.
Be mindful of any limitations on religious speech.
Students should do research on laws and customs before coming.

People With Disabilities

Zimbabwe has limited accessibility. Make sure you plan ahead to meet your demands.

National Parks

Know the rules for parks and wildlife areas. Take precautions to stay safe.

Dual Citizenship

Zimbabwe recognizes it, but check the rules of other countries you’ll visit. Understand the legal implications.

Hunting

You need permits and must follow local regulations. Some areas and species are restricted.

Contact the Zimbabwe Professional Guides Association (Z.P.G.A) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) for more information.

Knowing these laws and customs helps you have a safe, respectful trip.

Zimbabwe Time Zone

Zimbabwe uses Central Africa Time (CAT), UTC+2, year-round. No daylight saving.

The IANA database lists it as “Africa/Harare.”

Food In Zimbabwe

Zimbabwean food mixes African, British, and Portuguese influences. Staples include sadza, a cornmeal porridge, plus meats and vegetables.

Popular dishes: Dovi, a peanut butter stew, and Muriwo unedovi, greens with peanut butter.

Other foods: kapenta, small dried fish, mopane worms, and biltong, dried meat.

Common drinks: maheu, a corn drink, and tea.

The cuisine is hearty and flavorful, built around local ingredients. International food is available at most lodges and hotels.

Language In Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has 16 official languages, demonstrating its cultural variety. The key ones:

Shona: Spoken by around 70% of the population
Ndebele: around 20%
English: Widely used as a lingua franca, and in government, business and education

Other languages are Chewa, Chibarwe, Kalanga and Xhosa.English is often spoken in towns and tourist spots.

The mixing of languages is a reflection of Zimbabwe’s tradition and history.

Tourist Areas, Zimbabwe National Parks and Reserves

Zimbabwe’s landscapes and fauna are varied and ideal for nature and adventure lovers. National parks and reserves provide everything from wildlife drives to birding.

Zimbabwe National Parks

Hwange National Park: Large elephant herds and big cats. More than 100 animal species, 400 bird species.
Matobo Hills National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with distinctive rock formations. Home to sable antelope and rock hyraxes.
Mana Pools National Park: Stunning, remote, 350+ bird species.Great for walking & canoe safaris.
Gonarezhou National Park: Underrated and wild, now host to the big five.
Nyanga National Park: Tranquil retreat in lush hills and waterways.

Zimbabwe Attractions

Victoria Falls – One of the world’s most famous waterfalls
Great Zimbabwe Ruins: Historical site and ancient stone city
Lake Kariba: Great for boating and fishing
Big Five: Lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and Cape buffalo in the wild
Scenic Landscapes: Hills, mountains and valleys with wonderful vistas
Birdlife: More than 400 species, from waterbirds to raptors to songbirds
Interesting rock formations: Especially in Matobo Hills

Safari Activities Done at Zimbabwe Parks and Reserves

Watching games
Bird viewing
Walking safaris:
Canoeing
Sunset Cruises
Helicopter & microlight flights
White water rafting
bungee jumping.
Swing gorge

Facilities in Parks and Reserves of Zimbabwe

Luxury lodges and campgrounds within parks
Safari lodges luxury
Budget Options in Larger Cities

Cost of Visiting Zimbabwe Parks and Reserves

Park fees: $60-100 per person per day
Accommodation: $300-$600 per person per night for luxury lodges
Safari activities: $50-$200 pp/activity
Transportation: $200 – $500 per person each day depending on distance and kind

Guidelines and Tips

Follow park rules and wildlife
Pay attention to your guide during activities
Bring sunscreen and bug spray
View current exchange rates and payment alternatives

Zimbabwe’s parks provide diverse species, magnificent scenery and real adventure.

Zimbabwe Currency/Money

The Zimbabwean Gold (ZiG) is the new local currency, replacing the Zimbabwe dollar ($ZWL).US currencies are accepted practically everywhere. Other approved currencies: South African rand, Botswana pula, pound sterling, euro, etc.

Cash is best. Card acceptance is limited and fees are high.

ATMs often don’t work with foreign cards, so bring enough cash.

Zimbabwe Safari Costs

Park Fees: $60–$100 per person per day

Accommodation: $300–$600 per person per night at luxury lodges

Safari Activities: $50–$200 per person per activity

Transportation: $200–$500 per person per day

Tipping

It’s customary for good service, unless a service charge is already added.

Carry small bills — change is often unavailable.

Money Precautions and Rules

Declare over $2,000 when leaving the country.

Only use licensed banks and bureaux de change.

Find out about payment options with hotels and providers in advance.

You should expect exorbitant bank fees and limited ATM access.

Knowing about money helps you plan and enjoy your safari.

Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe for A safari Trip

Best time for safaris and game viewing is during the dry winter months May to October.

The weather’s nice, humidity is low, animals are congregating at water sources thus easy to view. Other seasons have their own attractions:

Dry Season (June – October)

Great wildlife viewing as animals congregate at rivers and waterholes
Nice temps, little rain – great for safaris
peak safari season. June and August in particular
Hwange National Park this time of year is great with big elephant herds

Rainy Season (December to March)

Foliage and rain obstruct wildlife viewing
Lush green landscapes, perfect for culture and birdwatching
Many migratory birds arrive – great for birders
Tough roads, especially in Mana Pools

Shoulder Season (April, May and November)

April: Cooler temperatures and less rain. Good for safaris and Victoria Falls
May: High season. Full falls and good game viewing
November: Weather is changeable but wonderful for birdwatching and fewer crowds

Ideal Time for Particular Tourist Activities

Victoria Falls Tours: February to June for highest water flow; July to September for less spray and clearer views
Birding Tours: November through March for migration.
Walking Safaris: Dry season, April – October
Photography: September for famous wildlife images

Weather Advice

Bring layers for cool mornings and evenings during the dry season
Carry waterproof gears during rainy season
Low-altitude parks become quite hot October to February
Consult local forecasts and road conditions before you travel For the best trip, plan around what you want to see and do.

Zimbabwe Packing List for Safari (Clothing, Insect Repellent, etc)

Pack these for a no fuss journey :

Apparel

Neutral colors: khaki, beige, olive green for blending in • Long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect from sun and bugs
Comfortable walking shoes for game drives & walking safaris
Light jacket or sweater for cool mornings and evenings
Waterproof rain jacket or poncho for sudden showers
Swimwear for downtime at the camp or lodge
Comfortable underwear and socks for rocky roads

Safari Equipment

Seeing animals far away with binoculars
Camera and charger to document your vacation
Sunscreen and sun cap for protection from the sun
Bug spray to keep away bites and sickness
Power bank and device charger • Refillable water bottle to keep you hydrated

Health & Hygiene

Malaria medicines — check with your doctor or travel clinic
First-aid kit including bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers
Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, eco friendly soap
Prescription medications – take plenty and maintain in original packing

Miscellaneous

Identity documents: passport, visa, travel insurance, safari permits
Cash: You should bring some little cash in USD
Snacks and energy bars for lengthy game drives
Book or diary for some peaceful time

More Tips

Layer packing to respond to temperature change
Employ neutral colors to ward off bugs or fauna
Bring rain gear and warm clothes to prepare for changing weather
Visitors to local communities should dress modestly and remove hats

Packing wisely implies you are set for a memorable safari in Zimbabwe

Traveling To Zimbabwe FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Is It Safe to Travel to Zimbabwe Now?

Zimbabwe is a mediumrisk destination and does have higher crime levels, but is generally safe for travelers who are vigilant and aware.

2. Can US Citizens Travel to Zimbabwe?

Yes. US nationals must have an electronic travel authorization (eTA or eVisa) or can receive a visa on arrival. The eVisa is good for a 30-day stay for tourism

3. Can Tourists Go to Zimbabwe?

Yes, tourists can go there. Know the dangers and be cautious. Victoria Falls, the Great Zimbabwe Ruins and Lake Kariba are among the top. It is advisable to use a reliable tour provider.

4. Is Zimbabwe a Cheap Country to Visit?

With the US Dollar commonly utilized, Zimbabwe is relatively cheap. Cost: Lodging $20-$500/night, Meals $5-$30/meal, Safaris $100-$300/day.

5. Is Zimbabwe Or South Africa Safer?

Overall, Zimbabwe is thought to be a safer country to visit than South Africa. Zimbabwe has a safety index of 53 , and crime is more prevalent in South Africa. Both countries have safety problems such as violent crime and road conditions.

6. What Danger Level Is Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe is at a moderate danger level, 3.2/5.Risks: Crime (petty and violent), bad roads, and natural disasters. Tourists can protect themselves by taking precautions and being observant. These are tips to help you have a safe vacation in Zimbabwe.

Feel free to contact us with any queriesand let us help you organize your Zimbabwe safari!