First-Time Visitors Guide
Welcome to Zimbabwe! Whether you’re dreaming of thundering Victoria Falls, encountering elephants on safari, or exploring ancient stone ruins, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable first visit.Safe & Welcoming
Zimbabwe is one of Africa’s friendliest destinations with excellent tourism infrastructure
Incredible Diversity
From waterfalls to wildlife, ancient history to adventure sports
Great Value
Excellent experiences across all budget levels
Zimbabwe at a Glance
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Capital | Harare |
| Languages | English (official), Shona, Ndebele |
| Currency | US Dollar (USD) widely accepted |
| Time Zone | CAT (UTC+2) |
| Driving | Left side of road |
| Best Time | May-October (dry season) |
| Visa | Most visitors: visa on arrival |
| Electricity | 220V, UK-style 3-pin plugs |
Top 5 Must-See Experiences
1
Victoria Falls
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The mighty Zambezi River plunges 108 meters into a gorge, creating a spectacular curtain of mist visible from 50km away. Walk along the rainforest paths, feel the spray, and witness nature at its most powerful.Best time: February-May for highest water; August-December for best viewsLearn more about Victoria Falls
2
Hwange National Park
Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve and one of Africa’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries. Home to over 40,000 elephants plus lions, wild dogs, giraffes, and 400+ bird species. Classic African safari at its finest.Best time: July-October for wildlife viewingExplore Hwange
3
Great Zimbabwe
UNESCO World Heritage Site and Africa’s largest ancient stone structure outside Egypt. These medieval ruins were the capital of a powerful kingdom and give Zimbabwe its name (“Houses of Stone”).Best time: Year-round; cooler months (May-August) most comfortableDiscover Great Zimbabwe
4
Mana Pools National Park
A wilderness gem where walking safaris put you on foot among elephants, hippos, and predators along the Zambezi River. UNESCO World Heritage Site known for intimate wildlife encounters.Best time: September-October for concentrated wildlifeExperience Mana Pools
5
Matobo Hills
Ancient granite formations with San Bushman rock art dating back 13,000 years. Excellent rhino tracking, Cecil Rhodes’ grave, and spiritual significance to local communities.Best time: Year-roundVisit Matobo Hills
Before You Go: The Essentials
1. Visas & Entry
Good News: Most visitors can get a visa on arrival at the airport.Visa Categories:
- Category A (No visa): SADC countries, some African nations
- Category B (Visa on arrival): USA, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, most travelers
- Category C (Advance visa): Some countries require pre-application
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond travel dates
- Return/onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Visa fee in USD cash ($30-55 depending on nationality)
2. Health & Safety
Vaccinations:
- Routine vaccines (MMR, tetanus, etc.)
- Hepatitis A & B recommended
- Typhoid recommended
- Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from endemic country
- Antimalarial medication
- Mosquito prevention (repellent, long sleeves, treated nets)
- Higher risk areas: Lowveld, Zambezi Valley, Victoria Falls
- Zimbabwe is generally safe for tourists
- Normal precautions apply
- Use reputable tour operators
- Don’t display expensive items
- Tourist areas are well-patrolled
3. Money Matters
Currency: US Dollar (USD) is the primary currency for tourists.What to Bring:
Currency & money guide
- Sufficient USD cash in small denominations (5, 20)
- Credit card (Visa/Mastercard) for hotels and larger purchases
- Notify your bank of travel dates
- Available in cities but not always reliable
- Don’t rely solely on ATMs - bring cash backup
| Category | Daily Budget |
|---|---|
| Budget | $50-100 |
| Mid-range | $150-250 |
| Luxury | $350-500+ |
4. When to Visit
Dry Season (May-October): Best overall
- Excellent wildlife viewing (animals gather at water)
- Little to no rain
- Cooler temperatures (can be cold mornings June-August)
- Peak tourist season (July-October)
- Lush green landscapes
- Victoria Falls at highest (Feb-May)
- Baby animals, migratory birds
- Afternoon thunderstorms
- Lower prices, fewer crowds
- May-June: Victoria Falls impressive, pleasant weather
- July-August: Peak safari season, dry and cooler
- September-October: Best wildlife, hot and dry
- November-December: Rains begin, green season starts
- January-April: Wet season, Victoria Falls building
Suggested First-Time Itineraries
The Classic First Visit (7-10 Days)
The perfect introduction covering Zimbabwe’s highlights:Days 1-3: Victoria Falls
- Arrive Victoria Falls Airport
- See the falls, rainforest walk
- Choose activities: helicopter flight, sunset cruise, Zambia day trip
- Transfer to Hwange (2 hours by road)
- Safari game drives, walking safaris
- Night drives and waterhole viewing
- Fly out from Victoria Falls, or
- Add 2-3 days: Eastern Highlands, Great Zimbabwe, or Mana Pools
Victoria Falls Quick Trip (3-4 Days)
Perfect for adding Zimbabwe to a regional trip:Day 1: Arrive, sunset cruise on Zambezi
Day 2: Victoria Falls, activities (rafting, bungee, helicopter)
Day 3: Zambezi National Park safari or Chobe day trip (Botswana)
Day 4: Morning activity, departVictoria Falls guide
Wildlife Focus (10-14 Days)
For serious safari enthusiasts:Days 1-3: Victoria Falls
Days 4-7: Hwange National Park
Days 8-11: Mana Pools National Park
Days 12-13: Harare or Lake Kariba
Day 14: DepartSafari planning guide
Getting There & Around
Flights to Zimbabwe
Main International Airports:
- Harare (HRE): Capital city, most connections
- Victoria Falls (VFA): Modern airport, direct to tourism hub
- From Johannesburg: Multiple daily flights (1hr 45min)
- From Addis Ababa: Ethiopian Airlines (direct)
- From Nairobi: Kenya Airways (direct)
- From Dubai: Emirates via Harare
Getting Around
Best Options for First-Timers:
- Organized Tours/Transfers: Most convenient, recommended
- Domestic Flights: Fast between Harare and Victoria Falls (1.5hrs)
- Private Transfers: Point-to-point with driver
- Self-Drive: Possible but challenging (book 4x4 for parks)
Accommodation Overview
Types of Accommodation:
Booking Tips:
| Type | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Safari Lodges | $300-800/person | Immersive wildlife experience |
| Luxury Hotels | $150-400/night | Victoria Falls, cities |
| Mid-range Hotels | $70-150/night | Comfortable, good value |
| Guesthouses/B&Bs | $40-100/night | Personal service, local feel |
| Budget/Hostels | $10-50/night | Solo travelers, backpackers |
- Safari lodges: Book 6-12 months ahead for peak season
- Victoria Falls: Book 2-3 months ahead
- Many lodges are all-inclusive (meals, activities, drinks)
Essential Packing List
Safari Essentials
- Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, brown)
- Long sleeves and pants (sun/mosquito protection)
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Good binoculars
- Camera with zoom lens
- Dust cover for camera equipment
Practical Items
- Sunscreen SPF 30+
- Insect repellent (DEET-based)
- Reusable water bottle
- Power bank (power cuts occur)
- UK plug adapter
- Torch/flashlight
- Basic first aid kit
Clothing Tips
- Layers for cool mornings/evenings
- Light jacket or fleece (May-August)
- Rain jacket (November-April)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals for lodges
- Swimwear
Documents
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Visa fees in USD cash
- Travel insurance documents
- Yellow fever certificate (if applicable)
- Flight confirmations
- Accommodation bookings
- Emergency contacts
Common Questions from First-Timers
Is Zimbabwe safe for tourists?
Is Zimbabwe safe for tourists?
Yes, Zimbabwe is generally safe for tourists. Main tourist areas like Victoria Falls, national parks, and cities have good security. Use normal precautions you would anywhere: don’t display expensive items, use reputable services, and follow local advice.
Do I need a guide for safari?
Do I need a guide for safari?
Highly recommended. Guides know where to find animals, understand their behavior, and provide safety. Many parks allow self-driving, but a guide significantly enhances the experience.
Can I drink the tap water?
Can I drink the tap water?
Stick to bottled water. Hotels and lodges provide filtered or bottled water. Use bottled water for brushing teeth in rural areas.
What language do people speak?
What language do people speak?
English is the official language and widely spoken, especially in tourism areas. Shona and Ndebele are the main local languages. You’ll get by easily with English.
Is it expensive?
Is it expensive?
It varies widely. Budget travelers can manage on 500+/day. Mid-range options ($150-250/day) offer excellent value.
How much should I tip?
How much should I tip?
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory:
- Safari guides: $10-20/day per person
- Lodge staff: $5-10/day per person
- Restaurants: 10-15% if service not included
- Taxi drivers: Round up fare
What about travel insurance?
What about travel insurance?
Essential. Ensure your policy covers:
- Medical evacuation
- Adventure activities (if doing them)
- Trip cancellation
- Lost/stolen belongings
Quick Reference Card
Emergency Numbers:
Useful Phrases (Shona):
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 995 |
| Medical | 994 |
| Tourist Police | +263 242 703 432 |
- Hello: Mhoro (mor-oh)
- Thank you: Maita basa (my-ta ba-sa)
- How are you?: Makadii? (ma-ka-dee)
- Goodbye: Sara zvakanaka (sa-ra zva-ka-na-ka)
- E-Visa: evisa.gov.zw
- Zimbabwe Tourism: zimbabwetourism.net
- This site: travel-info.co.zw
Start Planning Your Trip
Explore Destinations
Discover Zimbabwe’s incredible places
Plan Your Safari
Everything you need for wildlife adventures
Book a Trip
Get help planning your perfect Zimbabwe experience
Contact Us
Questions? We’re here to help
Welcome to Zimbabwe - you’re going to love it! Last updated: January 2025