Our country

Zimbabwe is a country of unparalleled beauty and contrasts, from the semi-tropical areas in the West and North, to the cool Highlands of the East and to the open expanses of the Centre and the South.  Fauna and flora is truly remarkable and sporting pursuits include some of the finest angling and game and bird watching to be found in Africa. The relative height of the plateau on which most of Zimbabwe is situated accounts for its healthy, equitable climate with warm days but fresh nights.  We have no doubt that you will find a first visit to our country to be a breathtaking experience.

You will find the population to be friendly and helpful. While almost all Africans' mother tongue is either Shona or Matabele, English is spoken by almost everyone.

Roads and transport 

Roads are generally good by African standards although potholes do exist and maintenance is not up to European standards. Power cuts are frequent so due care and attention are required at most traffic light intersections.  A system of tolls exists on major roads.  Road fuel is freely available and a number of international car hire companies operate from various centres, including airports.  Bus and train services cover the country but we cannot recommended their use. Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls are also connected by internal air services. 

Travel formalities 

The main point of entry into Zimbabwe is Harare airport, a modern facility within a short drive of the city.  Airport formalities are generally dealt with efficiently for but for entry by road considerable delays are likely at border crossing points, commonly of 3-4 hours.

You should note that an entry visa is required for residents of the UK, most European Union countries and the United States.  This can be purchased in advance from the Zimbabwean embassy in your country of residence or may be paid on arrival at Harare airport or at any other points of arrival into the country.  Please check with the embassy in your country of residence for any changes in visa requirements.  You should also review the status of vaccinations and have these updated before you travel.  If you plan to travel to certain areas of the country such as Kariba or Victoria Falls, you should bring malaria medication, as recommended by your medical practitioner.  Malaria is not normally a problem in Harare.

Your visit 

 Currency

In 2009 Zimbabwe adopted the US dollar as its unit of currency although South African rands are also widely accepted.  US dollar notes are in plentiful supply but, as there is a scarcity of coins, you are unlikely to receive small change; you may be offered a credit note or some small item such as confectionary to make up any balance owing to you. 

It may be worth explaining to your bank that you are planning a visit to Zimbabwe.  Otherwise, you may find that credit/debit cards are unexpectedly blocked.

By comparison to Europe, the cost of living is not high and you can expect an excellent evening meal for around $25 per person.  Credit Cards and Travellers Cheques although widely used in the western world are of limited use in Zimbabwe.  The few cash dispensers (ATM's) are only to be found in large cities, and are subject to daily limits.

As when travelling to any country, it is sensible to take precautions with your cash, valuables, passports and travel documentation.

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