Zimbabwe offers an astounding variety of natural beauty for a small, landlocked country in southern Africa, and is a must for active adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts and anybody who can appreciative spectacular scenery. The destination's sights include the iconic Victoria Falls, the giant marble-like boulders of the Motopo Hills, the verdant mountains of the Eastern Highlands, national parks teeming with wildlife, and the Great Zimbabwe ancient ruins. Zimbabwe's capital city, Harare, is also impressive in many ways.

The Victoria Falls are Zimbabwe's most popular tourist attraction and one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Their mile-wide (2km) curtain of water plunges deep into the Zambezi Gorge, creating a cloud of mist that can be seen up to 20 miles (32km) away. This area is renowned for being the 'adventure capital of Africa', and offers a variety of high adrenaline activities, including one of the wildest days of whitewater rafting on earth, and a 364-foot (111m) bungee jump into the Zambezi River gorge from the bridge linking Zimbabwe to Zambia.

If visitors would rather lie back and relax, they can enjoy scenic flights over the area, game viewing adventures, and tranquil sundowner cruises above the falls. Wildlife flourishes in the untamed wilderness of the Zambezi Valley, in national parks, and on the shores of Lake Kariba, where hippo, crocodile, buffalo, rhino, elephant, and lion roam freely. Remote and protected wildlife reserves line the banks of the Zambezi River and the region offers some of the finest canoe safaris in Southern Africa, particularly the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Mana Pools, which is renowned for its outstanding variety of game.

The saltpans and grassy plains of Hwange National Park support one of the largest concentrations of animals in the world, and form the largest game reserve in the country. Lake Kariba is treasured as a source of hydro-electricity, as well as for its fishing resources. It is a beautiful stretch of water studded with islands and the sun-bleached branches of dead trees, surrounded by mountains and forests. Houseboats offer a wonderful opportunity to relax and take in the spectacular sunsets, enjoy a variety of watersports, and spot the vast quantities of game attracted to the lake, including huge Nile crocodiles and hippos.

The ongoing social and political unrest in Zimbabwe, together with an exceptionally weak economy, has deterred many potential travellers from visiting Zimbabwe and experiencing some of the most breathtaking scenery and first-class game viewing safaris in Africa. Although visitors to the country are urged to exercise caution at all times and to remain aware of recent political developments, the main tourist areas, and national parks in particular, have been largely unaffected by the political situation, being far from the main cities where much of the instability exists.

Things to do in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is blessed with a host of globally recognised touristic gems that will delight outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The two most famous areas to visit in the country are the incomparable Victoria Falls (on the western border), and the wide expanse of Lake Kariba (on the northwestern border). In both cases, wondrous natural features have ensured the development of tourist hubs that are comparatively safe for visitors, and that boast many activities, attractions, and well-developed amenities. Victoria Falls alone justifies travelling to Zimbabwe, and the Zambezi River, where the falls are located, is famed for its high-volume whitewater rafting adventures. Lake Kariba is a favourite playground for fishermen and boaters, and is particularly renowned for its house boating potential.

Of course, Zimbabwe is also home to diverse wildlife and some game viewing is a must during a visit to the country. The Matusadona National Park, which incorporates Lake Kariba, is a good option for animal sightings. Other popular game parks include Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park and Matobo Hills National Park. Keen bird watchers will find the Honde Valley and Eastern Highlands well worth a visit. Culturally, the most popular attraction in the country is Great Zimbabwe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 11th century. Exploring the well-preserved ruins of this mysterious ancient culture is thrilling.

Zimbabwe travel info

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Three-pin rectangular blade plugs are common.

Language

English is the official language in Zimbabwe, although it is only spoken as a first language by a tiny percentage of the population. Several indigenous languages are spoken including Shona and Ndebele.

Money

Though the primary legal tender is the Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL), travellers can transact using the US dollar at the official exchange rate, as it's widely accepted. The symbol for both is $, so travellers should check which currency is in use before making a transaction. They should also confirm in advance what payment method a restaurant, hotel or tour operator will accept. Some businesses, including medical providers, may not accept payment by credit or debit card. The country is currently experiencing a shortage of cash. Withdrawals are possible at some ATMs and bank branches with an international bank card, but the availability of cash is not always guaranteed.

Tipping

A service charge is usually included in the bill, and a 10 percent tip is customary for staff in restaurants, hotels and taxis. Some tour guides and game rangers depend largely on tips for their income.

Health

Travellers to Zimbabwe who arrive from infected countries must have a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid are recommended. There is a year-round risk of malaria in most of the country, particularly in the Zambezi Valley, Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park and in the Eastern Highlands; the risk is very small in Harare and Bulawayo. Precautions against mosquito bites should be taken to avoid a number of mosquito-borne diseases. Cholera outbreaks usually occur during the rainy season, when flooding and contamination of water sources takes place. Rapidly declining health standards are also responsible for Zimbabwe having one of the lowest life expectancies in the world, according to the World Health Organization; visitors are advised to take food and hygiene precautions. The standard of tap water in urban areas is considered low, and bottled water is available. The current economic instability has led to shortages of medication in public hospitals, and striking is common; it is advisable to bring a supply of personal medication and travel health insurance is essential. Private clinics expect cash payment and medical costs can be high.

Safety

The level of crime is moderate and visitors who are travelling alone may be more vulnerable. Mugging as well as petty crimes such as pick pocketing are common in city centres, especially after dark. Travellers should be vigilant at Harare International Airport and when leaving banks and cash points, and should avoid carrying or displaying large amounts of cash in public places.

Travellers shouldn't use intercity bus and rail services, as they're dangerous. Buses are overcrowded and poorly maintained, and drivers are often reckless; the rail system is also inadequately maintained, and there are many accidents. Visitors are better off using taxis that are either owned or recommended by major hotels.

Wildlife viewing presents risks, especially for safari-goers who are on foot or at close range. Adventurers should always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife, and only exit the tour vehicle when a professional guide or warden says it is safe to do so. They should also only use reputable guides or tour operators, and closely follow park regulations and their guide's advice.

Victoria Falls is considered the most safe and well-policed part of Zimbabwe and the majority of visits are hassle-free. The resort areas around Lake Kariba are also considered to be safe, especially on guided tours and package holidays.

Local customs

In Zimbabwe it's a sign of respect to stand up when greeting people who have recently entered a room, or to physically lower the head when meeting someone older or of higher status. It's important to greet elders or senior-ranking people first, and it's considered extremely rude to challenge an elder's opinion, even if they are incorrect. Locals will often communicate gratitude nonverbally with claps to show respect. For instance, people clap twice to say 'thank you' if someone is passing them something.

It is against the law to take photographs of public buildings or government institutions, and it is not advisable to take photographs anywhere in the vicinity of such buildings, or any roadblocks and illegally occupied farms, as this could lead to arrest. It is also illegal to photograph police and military personnel, as well as of demonstrations. Homosexuality is illegal; civilians are not permitted to wear camouflage clothing.

Doing business

Business in Zimbabwe is conducted in English, and is fairly informal, with drinking and socialising very much part of the business culture. Dress is fairly conservative, but lightweight suits or casual jackets are more suited to the hot climate than formal business wear. It is customary to shake hands with men and women at the beginning and end of a meeting. Business hours are generally Monday to Friday, 8am to 4.30pm, although hours vary considerably depending on the establishment; some businesses close at 11am on Wednesdays, and some are open on Saturday mornings.

Duty free

Travellers to Zimbabwe do not have to pay duty on items to the value of US$200 provided this allowance is not claimed more than once in a 30-day period. These include goods for personal consumption, including tobacco, and alcohol up to 5 litres with no more than 2 litres of this being spirits. Prohibited items include narcotic and amphetamine drugs, indecent or obscene reading material, toy firearms, and blade knives.

Communications

The international dialling code for Zimbabwe is +263. Travellers can purchase prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones and top hotels offer WiFi.

Passport & Visa

All visitors require travel itineraries, tickets, and documents for return or onward journeys, as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay. Visa fees, where applicable, are payable in US dollars. Fees vary depending on nationality and type of visa. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry requirements

US passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zimbabwe. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.

UK passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zimbabwe. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.

Canadian passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zimbabwe. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.

Australian passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zimbabwe. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.

South African passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zimbabwe. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.

Irish passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zimbabwe. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.

New Zealand passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date they expect to leave Zimbabwe. A visa is required. A 90-day tourist visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained on arrival.

Useful contacts

Official tourism website of Zimbabwe: www.zimbabwetourism.net

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Embassies / consulates in other countries

Zimbabwe Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 332 7100.

Zimbabwe Embassy, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 (0)20 7836 7755.

Zimbabwe Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 421 2824/1242.

Zimbabwe Embassy, Canberra ACT, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 (0)2 6286 2281/2700.

Zimbabwe Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 342 5125.

Embassies / consulates in Zimbabwe

United States Embassy, Harare: +263 (0)4 250 593.

British Embassy, Harare: +263 (0)4 338 800

Canadian Embassy, Harare: +263 (0)4 252 181/2/3/4/5.

Australian High Commission, Harare: +263 (0)4 853 23 555.

South African High Commission, Harare: +263 (0)4 760 404.

Honorary Consulate of Ireland, Harare +263 (0)4 771 949.

New Zealand High Commission, Pretoria (also responsible for Zimbabwe): +27 (0)12 435 9000.

Climate in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has a sub-tropical climate and a summer season of about eight months (October to April), when hot, sunny days are the norm. Summer daytime temperatures average around 86F (30C) in main centres, though low-lying areas such as the Zambezi Valley, Kariba, and Victoria Falls tend to be hotter, and there is always the possibility of an afternoon thunderstorm. The Zimbabwean winter climate is pleasant, with warm, dry days from June to August (temperatures drop more extremely at night), and an average temperature of around 68F (20C). Rain occurs mostly between November and March in Zimbabwe, but rainfall patterns vary according to region. The best game-viewing time is during the months of August, September and October. This is the dry season and animals congregate at the waterholes. The best time of the year for white-water rafting on the Zambezi is over September, October, and November.