Help & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling to Zimbabwe. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling to Zimbabwe. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us.
If you have more questions about traveling to Zimbabwe, please contact our team for personalized assistance.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Do I need a visa to visit Zimbabwe?
Do I need a visa to visit Zimbabwe?
Most visitors to Zimbabwe require a visa. Visa requirements depend on your nationality:
- Category A: No visa required (includes most SADC countries)
- Category B: Visa on arrival (includes USA, EU, UK, Australia, Canada)
- Category C: Visa required in advance
How long can I stay in Zimbabwe on a tourist visa?
How long can I stay in Zimbabwe on a tourist visa?
A standard tourist visa allows a stay of up to 30 days. Extensions for an additional 30 days can be obtained from the Department of Immigration while in Zimbabwe. The maximum stay on a tourist visa with extensions is typically 90 days within a 12-month period.
What documents do I need for entry into Zimbabwe?
What documents do I need for entry into Zimbabwe?
You’ll need:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date
- Sufficient blank pages in your passport for entry stamps
- Proof of onward travel (return or onward ticket)
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Visa or visa approval letter (if applicable)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from a yellow fever endemic country
Health & Safety
Is Zimbabwe safe for tourists?
Is Zimbabwe safe for tourists?
Zimbabwe is generally considered safe for tourists, especially in main tourist areas. As with travel to any destination, it’s advisable to:
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings
- Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- Follow local advice and guidelines
- Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark
- Use reputable tour operators and accommodations
What vaccinations do I need for Zimbabwe?
What vaccinations do I need for Zimbabwe?
Recommended vaccinations for Zimbabwe include:
- Routine vaccinations (MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, etc.)
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
- Rabies (for extended stays)
- Yellow Fever (required if coming from an endemic country)
Is tap water safe to drink in Zimbabwe?
Is tap water safe to drink in Zimbabwe?
It’s recommended to drink bottled or purified water in Zimbabwe. While tap water may be treated in major cities, the infrastructure can be unreliable. Most hotels and lodges provide bottled water or have filtration systems in place.
Money & Costs
What currency is used in Zimbabwe?
What currency is used in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe officially uses multiple currencies with the US Dollar (USD) being the most widely accepted. The Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL) is also in circulation, but tourists are better off using USD.South African Rand, Euro, and British Pound are sometimes accepted at major tourist establishments, but often at unfavorable exchange rates.
Can I use credit cards in Zimbabwe?
Can I use credit cards in Zimbabwe?
Credit cards (primarily Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at major hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban areas and tourist destinations. However, many smaller establishments, markets, and rural areas operate on a cash-only basis.It’s advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when traveling outside major tourist areas. ATMs are available in cities but may not always have cash or could be temporarily out of service.
How much should I budget for a trip to Zimbabwe?
How much should I budget for a trip to Zimbabwe?
Costs vary widely depending on your travel style:
- Budget travel: $50-100 USD per day (basic accommodations, public transport, local food)
- Mid-range: $150-250 USD per day (3-star accommodations, some activities, mix of restaurants)
- Luxury: $350+ USD per day (luxury lodges, private guides, exclusive safaris)
Transportation
What's the best way to get around in Zimbabwe?
What's the best way to get around in Zimbabwe?
Options for getting around Zimbabwe include:
- Organized tours: The most convenient option for most tourists
- Self-driving: Possible with 4WD vehicles, but challenging due to road conditions
- Domestic flights: Available between major cities and tourist destinations
- Public buses: Economical but often uncomfortable and unreliable
- Taxis and ride-sharing: Available in major cities
Is it safe to self-drive in Zimbabwe?
Is it safe to self-drive in Zimbabwe?
Self-driving in Zimbabwe presents challenges:
- Road conditions can be poor with potholes and unmarked hazards
- Fuel shortages can occur
- Many roads are unlit and wildlife may cross unexpectedly
- Traffic rules may be interpreted differently than in Western countries
Climate & Best Time to Visit
When is the best time to visit Zimbabwe?
When is the best time to visit Zimbabwe?
The dry season (May to October) is generally considered the best time to visit Zimbabwe:
- May to August: Mild days and cool nights with excellent wildlife viewing
- September to October: Very hot and dry with the best wildlife concentration around water sources
- November to April: Rainy season with lush landscapes but more challenging wildlife viewing
What should I pack for a trip to Zimbabwe?
What should I pack for a trip to Zimbabwe?
Essential items include:
- Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors and blue/black on safari)
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants (for sun/mosquito protection)
- Warm layers for cool mornings/evenings (especially May-August)
- Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Sturdy walking shoes
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Basic first aid kit
- Binoculars and camera with zoom lens for wildlife viewing
- Waterproof bag/case during rainy season
- Power bank (power outages can occur)
Safari & Wildlife
Do I need a guide for wildlife viewing?
Do I need a guide for wildlife viewing?
A professional guide is highly recommended for wildlife viewing in Zimbabwe:
- Guides know the best locations to spot specific animals
- They understand animal behavior, enhancing safety and viewing opportunities
- They provide valuable insights about the ecosystem and conservation
- They can identify less obvious wildlife you might otherwise miss
What animals can I expect to see on safari in Zimbabwe?
What animals can I expect to see on safari in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe is home to the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) and much more:
- Elephants are particularly numerous in Hwange National Park
- Mana Pools is known for wild dogs and large populations of hippos and crocodiles
- Matobo Hills has a significant rhino population
- Antelope species, zebras, giraffes, and numerous bird species are commonly seen
Communication & Connectivity
Is there internet and mobile phone coverage in Zimbabwe?
Is there internet and mobile phone coverage in Zimbabwe?
Mobile coverage and internet access vary across Zimbabwe:
- Major cities and tourist areas have reasonable 3G/4G coverage
- Remote areas and national parks may have limited or no coverage
- Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and lodges but can be slow or intermittent
- Power outages can affect connectivity