Zimbabwe Safaris, Tours & Holidays

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 108 m 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.

How to get to Zimbabwe

Few airlines fly directly to Zimbabwe. Most people fly to Johannesburg and from there connect to Harare, Victoria Falls, or Bulawayo on the same day. Most tourists fly to Victoria Falls Airport (VFA), located 18km/11mi south of the town of Victoria Falls, and continue from there by vehicle or charter planes.

Passport, Visa, and Entry requirements for Zimbabwe

All visitors require valid passports. With the introduction of the visa regime, all countries around the globe were grouped into three categories. These regulations are subject to change, please check with the relevant authorities. All journalists visiting Zimbabwe need to be accredited by the Department of Information and Publicity. Please contact the Zimbabwe Embassy or Consulate in or near your country. For more information visit http://www.zimimmigration.gov.zw/

The health sector of Zimbabwe

The top three health threats facing the people of Zimbabwe are HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and malaria. These diseases contribute significantly to maternal and childhood illnesses and deaths. But there are some decent hospitals in Harare but travelers need to purchase travel insurance

Malaria and Yellow fever vaccination for Zimbabwe

Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required for entry to Zimbabwe. Make sure you are vaccinated before entering the country if you are coming from a region with yellow fever. Malaria is also present in Zimbabwe. Make sure you are protected with Antimalarials, mosquito repellents, and nettings.

Currency of Zimbabwe

Whilst the primary legal tender in Zimbabwe is the “Zimbabwe Dollar”, it currently possible for tourists to transact using the US Dollar at the official exchange rate. There are some bureaux de changes that will accept and change foreign currency, particularly US dollars.

Official Language of Zimbabwe

Many languages are spoken, or historically have been spoken, in Zimbabwe. The country’s main languages are Shona, spoken by roughly 70% of the population, and Ndebele, spoken by roughly 20%. English is the country’s lingua franca, used in government and business and as the main medium of instruction in schools.

You might like

Best time to travel to Zimbabwe

With mild temperatures, virtually no rain, and a low malaria risk, the dry May to October winter season is generally seen as the best time to visit Zimbabwe for game-viewing, although note that September and October are extremely hot and dry months.

What to wear in Zimbabwe

Generally, casual comfortable clothing is suitable for Zimbabwe throughout the year. For your Zimbabwe safari, pack lightweight clothing in light, neutral colors (but not white as it gets dirty very easily). Avoid blue or black clothing – the tsetse flies are drawn to these colors, and their bite can give you African sleeping sickness. Include a warm jacket or fleece in your suitcase for evening game drives as well as a pair of comfortable walking shoes.

What to bring while traveling to Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is a popular safari destination so travelers are advised to pack wisely below are some essential items to be brought

-Clothes in khaki, green, beige, and neutral colors.
-Long-sleeved shirts that offer protection from the sun and mosquitoes.
-T-shirts.
-Shorts or a light skirt.
-Jeans or safari trousers for evenings and cooler days.
-Jackets and sweaters for early morning and late afternoon game drives.
-Camera
-spear batteries
-Binoculars
-insect repellent
-Hut or cape

Car hire and driving in Zimbabwe

Many 4×4 travelers ask us if it’s safe to go to Zimbabwe. The answer is yes, Zimbabwe is a good self-drive destination for the more adventurous traveler. Zimbabwe knows beautiful wildlife reserves, such as Mana Pools, Hwange, and Matusadona National Parks, the last bordering Lake Kariba.

Accommodation in Zimbabwe

Harare, formerly Salisbury, capital of Zimbabwe, lying in the northeastern part of the country. The city was founded in 1890 at the spot where the British South Africa Company’s Pioneer Column halted its march into Mashonaland; it was named for Lord Salisbury, then British prime minister and there are decent accommodations across Zimbabwe’s tourism destinations but during the busy season advance booking is required.

Local food of Zimbabwe

Sadza is widely consumed throughout the entire country is the national dish of Zimbabwe – sadza. Sadza to Zimbabweans is like pasta to Italians. It’s made by gradually cooking either cornmeal or maize until it maintains the consistency of thickened porridge.

Tipping while Travelling in Zimbabwe

Tipping in Zimbabwe is not compulsory but always appreciated, and the amount will always depend on your own opinion and personal satisfaction this guide can be used US$10 per guest per day for a group guide, US$20 per guest per day for a private guide, and US$5 per guest per day for general staff.

Further information for Zimbabwe

It is recommended that you not use credit cards in Zimbabwe, as some places don’t accept them as payment.
Don’t bring any clothes with camouflage patterns or designs – this is not allowed in Zimbabwe. This applies to any clothing that can be construed as mimicking military wear. Visitors are urged not to wear, or even carry, any military-inspired clothing while traveling in Zimbabwe.

Safety of Zimbabwe

Travel to Zimbabwe is generally safe, but solo travelers need to be cautious of petty crime and scams. Lack of police presence has created a hotbed of crime, which for travelers can be dangerous and at times unnerving.

Zimbabweans are known for their hospitality and friendliness towards each other and visitors alike. Although all Zimbabweans are very helpful it is always advisable to be cautious when dealing with strangers. Police officers are very helpful and are easily identified by their uniforms. Like everywhere in the world valuables should always be safeguarded or left in the hotel safe box.