Vic Falls & Chobe Explorer

A nation of spectacular natural beauty, friendly people and rich culture, Zimbabwe’s status as one of Africa’s leading safari destinations was dampened for years by its political instability. But now that the country is transcending its strife and returning to a state of equilibrium, it is once again emerging as a vacation highlight of the continent. Victoria Falls – known to locals as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ – is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the sheer power of this massive body of water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge is awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Lake Kariba, with its game-rich shores and islands, is an idyllic safari spot featuring mind-blowing sunsets; Hwange National Park is known for its huge herds of elephants; and a kayak trip down the Zambezi through the Mana Pools National Park will appeal to the intrepid traveller, providing close encounters with crocodiles, hippos and a host of other wildlife.

Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Those nationalities that require visas to enter Zimbabwe may have to apply for these in advance, however, some nationalities are able to obtain these on arrival at the Port Of Entry.

There are 3 categories:

Category A: Countries whose nationals do NOT require a Visa. No action required, you will be granted easy entry at any border post.

Category B: Countries whose nationals are granted a Zimbabwe visa at port of entry on payment of requisite visa fees. These visas are easiest obtained on your arrival at the Airport or border post. If you get them done via an agency in your home country they will often cost you quite a bit more and be a lot more hassle.

Category C: Countries whose nationals are required to apply for and obtain a Zimbabwe visa prior to travelling. You can apply through a Zimbabwe High Commission in your home or neighbouring country.

All Categories need:-

• Passport valid for a least 6 months from your date of entry.
• Return ticket to your country (or enough money to buy one)
• Sufficient funds to cover your stay in Zimbabwe
• Enough blank pages in your passport to fit the required entry visa.

NB - Multiple Entry Visas - CANNOT be obtained at the port of entry into Zimbabwe. You may enter Zimbabwe on a single entry visa and then obtain a Multiple Entry Visa from the town office - but this may take up to 7 working days to be issued and in many cases is declined - if you need to enter 3 or 4 times rather buy a single entry and then a double entry visa or two doubles, which is a perfectly accepted by immigration.

Children - As of June 2012 - Zimbabwe will now be charging FULL VISA fees for any individual who is required to have a VISA despite their age. This includes infants and children who were previously being exempted from this. This has been imposed with immediate effect.

CATEGORY B: ZIMBABWE VISA FEES

Single EntryUS$ 30

Double EntryUS$ 45

Multiple Entry - See notes aboveUS$ 55

CATEGORY B: EXCEPTIONS

British and Irish

Single EntryUS$ 55

Double EntryUS$ 70

Canada

Single EntryUS$ 75

You should bring enough cash with you to pay for your visa on arrival - (no credit/debit cards or cheques).

Visitors are currently being given entry permission for anything up to 90 days but you are strongly advised to check that the number of days given at the port of entry covers your intended period of stay, although you can apply to have this period renewed and extended if required.

The Uni-Visa is available to passengers visiting Zambia and Zimbabwe and is only available at the below ports of entry at a cost of US$50.00 per person in cash. The visa is valid for 30 days allowing multiple access between these two countries as provided you stay in either of these countries. It is also valid for day trips into Botswana through Kazangula Land Borders. It is only available for holiday purposes.

Zambia:

Harry Mwaanga Airport (Livingstone)

Victoria Falls Land Border

Kazungula Land Border Kazungula Land Border

Kenneth Kaunda Airport (Lusaka)

Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls Airport

Victoria Falls Land Border

Kazungula Land Border

Harare Airport

Multiple entry visas have to be obtained in advance from your nearest Zambian consulate. Be sure to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Currency & Credit Cards

The government have said it is illegal to use USD or any other foreign currency in cash for transactions.   The Zimbabwe dollar (at present ZWL bond notes) is the only legal tender for transactions within Zimbabwe, but neither foreign currency nor the Zimbabwe dollar (ZWL) are available from ATM machines; there is a shortage of all cash. However, visas fees, National Parks fees and airport departure taxes should still be paid in USD cash.  Tipping is not a commercial transaction so therefore paying in foreign currency is acceptable. Foreign credit and debit cards are acceptable at hotels, lodges and larger shops in Victoria Falls (preferably Visa/Mastercard as opposed to American Express). Elsewhere in the country please ask first as you enter a shop whether they have the swipe machine for foreign cards. Please inquire at your hotel/lodge reception or the local Zimbabwe bank regarding exchanging foreign currency, and ensure you bring small denomination notes to pay exact amounts requested as change is not always available.

All cash should be kept securely on your person at all times, unless you have placed it securely in your room safe, and only you have access to the code on the safe. Do not leave cash, passports and valuables lying around in your vehicle, hotel room or on restaurant tables where it might tempt a petty thief.

Banking

Banks in Zimbabwe are open for business Monday to Friday from 08h00 to 15h00,  and Saturdays from 08h00 to 11h00. They are closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.

Air: 
Main airlines: Air Zimbabwe 
International Airports: Harare International Airport (HRE), Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ) 
Domestic Airports: Yes 

Road: 
Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 
Railway system: Limited 
Subway System: No 

Water: 
Ferries: No 
Water taxis: No 
Leisure cruises: No 

We are not medical practitioners, so for medical advice for the country you are visiting we recommend that you contact your own health or medical centre, or nearby travel clinic for up to date advice. You can also visit these trusted sites for recommendations, although any advice online should be followed up by a consultation with a travel medication specialist.

MASTA

CDC

WHO

There is no national welfare scheme and visitors to Zimbabwe are responsible for their own medical expenses. You must carry your own medical insurance.  

Malaria can be found throughout Zimbabwe. When visiting these areas malaria precautions are advised, please check with your health professional for the recommended malaria prophylaxis.   Please remember that the best insurance is the preventative kind: avoid being bitten by using mosquito repellents liberally.  Wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers/slacks in the evenings.

Zimbabwe's native cuisine is based on sadza, a cooked porridge made from ground maize which is normally be accompanied by some tasty relish, perhaps made of meat and tomatoes, or dried fish. Safari camps will often prepare sadza if requested, and it is almost always available in small restaurants in the towns.

Camps, hotels and lodges that cater to overseas typically serve a variety international fare, and the quality of food prepared in the most remote bush camps is usually excellent.

If you are driving yourself around and plan to cook, then get most of your supplies in main towns. There are a number of South African shopping chains operating in Zimbabwe which will generally have all that you will need.

Water in the main towns is usually purified.. The locals drink it, and are used to the relatively innocuous bugs that it may harbour. If you are in the country for a long time, then it may be worth acclimatising yourself to it. However, if you are in Zimbabwe for just a short period of time, then try to drink only bottled, boiled, or treated water available in towns and from all camps, lodges and hotels.

In Zimbabwe, the rains come principally in December, January,February and March; the further north you are, the earlier the precipitation arrives and the later it leaves. Zimbabwe's higher eastern areas usually receive more rainfall than the lower-lying western ones.

By April and May most of the rain is gone, leaving a verdant setting, which is starting to dry out. Especially in more southerly and higher locations, the night-time temperatures start to drop.

The nights in June, July and August can be really cold, so don't forget to bring some warmer clothes, in case you want to spend an evening outside; the days are still clear and warm. For Zimbabwe, this is the start of the 'peak season'– days are often cloudless and game sightings continually increase.

Into September and October the temperatures rise once again: Zimbabwe's lower-lying rift valley – Mana Pools – can get very hot in October. During this time, you'll see some fantastic game, as the Zimbabwe's wildlife concentrates around the limited water sources.

November is unpredictable; it can be hot and dry, it can also see the season's first rainfalls – and in this respect it's a very interesting month, as on successive days, you can see both weather patterns.

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Internet cafes: Limited 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Limited 
Public parks: Limited 
Libraries: Limited 

Plug Type: Type D, Type G 
Voltage (V): 230 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 

Comprehensive information on activities from Victoria Falls can be found at http://www.VictoriaFalls.net/

Tipping/Gratuities

Tipping is not compulsory. If, however, you would like to tip because you have received good service, we have enclosed a brief guideline to assist you. The amounts are not set in stone and you can tip less than the guidline or more.

You may wish to add a nominal amount ranging between US$ 10 to US$ 30 per day for incidentals (subject to personal budget choice) – i.e. if additional activities are booked once on your journey, if travel arrangements change for any reason, in acknowledgement of good service received in another area, etc.

Guides, Specialist Guides & Butlers – We recommend US$5 to US$ 10 per guest per day.

Mokoro Paddlers & Trackers – We recommend that each paddler receive US$ 3 to $5 per guest per day and that camp/lodge trackers receive US$ 3 to $5 per guest per day.

The General Safari Camp, Lodge or Hotel Staff – We recommend about US$ 5 to $10 per guest per day for safari camps/lodges. This should be placed in the communal tipping box to be distributed equally amongst all the staff.

Transfer Driver – We recommend about US$ 2.00 to US$ 3.00 per guest per movement.

Porterage – We recommend about US$ 2.00 to US$ 3.00 per guest per movement.

We recommend tipping your guide directly and making use of the gratuity box in the main area for the general camp/lodge staff.

Situated in the southern reaches of Africa, Botswana is renowned for its pristine wilderness areas characterised by deep lagoons, wetlands, lush palms, rugged hills and desert plains. The country’s primary tourist drawcard is undoubtedly the vast red expanse of the Kalahari Desert and its remarkably beautiful Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world. These natural wonders provide a tranquil haven for an abundance of African wildlife to thrive. Other highlights include the impressive Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, where visitors are privy to massive zebra migrations during the flood season; the Savuti plains, which host a significant pride of lions; and the Tsodilo Hills, where 4500 rock paintings form a unique record of human settlement over many millennia.

In June 2017 it was declared that all Non-SADC visitors entering Botswana would  be required to pay $30 tourism levy at the point of entry. However, this was never implemented (though could be at any time); it is just something to be aware of. 

Currency: 
Local currency: Pula (BWP) 
Symbol: P 
ISO code: BWP 
Central bank: Bank of Botswana 
Subunit: Thebe 
Banknotes: P100, P50, P20, P10 
Coins: P5, P2, P1; T50, T25, T10, T5 

Banking: 
Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Generally, no 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Generally, no  
Diner’s club: Generally, no 
 
Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 08h00 or 09h00 – 16h15 or 17h15 

Weekends: 08h00 or 09h00 – 10h45 or 12h00  

Public Holidays: No 

Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Public transport in Botswana is geared towards the needs of the local populace and is confined to main roads between major population centres. Although cheap and reliable, it is of little use to the traveller as most of Botswana’s tourist attractions lie off the beaten track.

Driving off the main roads in Botswana is only recommended to experts in 4x4 vehicles, that are equipped correctly. Most lodges offer transfers or they can be arranged. If, however, you will be driving in Botswana: your home driving licence will be accepted (with an official English translation if necessary; driving is on the left side of the road; and the national speed limit is on tarred roads is 120km/h and 60km/h in towns and villages.

If you are entering Botswana by road from Zimbabwe or Zambia, here are a few tips to assist you with the border formalities:

Botswana Border Formalities

A representative from a ground-handling company will accompany guests at all times and they will assist in any possible way. While these representatives are all very experienced at crossing these borders, however, the border posts are not under their jurisdiction, and as a result, guests may on occasion experience some of the scenarios laid out below.

ZIMBABWE – BOTSWANA

• You will be required to present yourself at Immigration

• Possible queues at Immigration.

• When crossing from Zimbabwe to Botswana you will change from one coach to an open 4x4 game viewing vehicle. 

• You may need to walk a short way with your bags to change vehicles.

• On the Botswana-side you will be required to step on a treated mat for foot and mouth disease control. The foot & mouth control is a regular occurrence and should be advised to guests as a matter of procedure. Please note that you will be required by Port Health at the Botswana border to disinfect your shoes before entering Botswana. With this in mind, we request that you carry ALL your shoes as hand luggage in a separate bag for the border crossing.

ZAMBIA – BOTSWANA

• You will be required to present yourself at Immigration

• Possible queues at immigration

• On the Zambian side of the river, you will be required to walk a short distance from the transfer vehicle to the boat.

• You will cross the Zambezi River in a speedboat (approximately 5 minutes). The general public and heavy commercial traffic cross the river on state-operated ferries.

• On the Botswana side of the river, you will be transferred in an open 4x4 game viewing vehicle  to the Botswana immigration and customs hall. Every passenger is required to present themselves in person to the officials. Again scanning equipment will be encountered, however you may be required to complete manual declaration forms at either border should the computer systems be offline.

• On the Botswana-side you will be required to step on a treated mat for foot and mouth disease control. The foot & mouth control is a regular occurrence and should be advised to guests as a matter of procedure. Please note that you will be required by Port Health at the Botswana border to disinfect your shoes before entering Botswana. With this in mind, we request that you carry ALL your shoes as hand luggage in a separate bag for the border crossing

• Possible delays due to heavy truck congestion.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

• Have your passport and visa (or cash for visa) ready. Botswana does not process visas at the border without prior arrangement and they will only accept BWP as payment

• The best currency to carry is US Dollars

• Have some water and reading material nearby

• Keep an eye on your belongings as this border is a busy one with a lot of foot traffic

• When entering Botswana, we request that you carry ALL your shoes as hand luggage in a separate bag for the border crossing for foot & mouth disease control

Be sure to watch out for wild animals on the roads!

There are major airports in Maun, Kasane and Gaborone, while smaller charter flights are used to get to the other top attractions and camps.

Food and water safety:  
Can you drink the tap water: Yes within major cities 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes within major cities 
Ice: Yes within major cities 
Meat: Yes within major cities 
Street food: Yes within major cities 
 
Local cuisine: Food centres around meat such as goat, beef, chicken and fresh water fish, and a maize meal known locally as “pap”.  Adventurous culinary enthusiasts may want to try the traditional speciality of Mopane Worms, while those with a sweet tooth should make sure to sample the local Kalahari Truffles (made as a dessert) and unusual fruit called Marula. It is believed that watermelon originated here.  

Drinks:  Bojalwaja Setswana (the beer of Botswana) - created using fermented sorghum seeds.  

Tipping: 10%, usually added to the bill at restaurants. It is also customary to tip game drivers and guides.

Annual rainfall: 475 mm  
Average temperature: 27°C 
 
Summer: 
Average in highs: 31°C 
Average in lows: 20°C 
 
Winter: 
Average in highs: 23°C 
Average in lows: 22°C 
 
Best time to visit: It’s best to visit Botswana between April and September – the dry winter months. At this time, animals usually stay close to their water sources, increasing your chances of seeing them.  

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 
 
Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Yes 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 
 
General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Internet cafes: Yes in cities 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes in cities 
Cafes: Yes in cities 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: No 
Libraries: Yes in cities 

New Regulations for Travelling with Children - Botswana

Please note that as of the 1st October 2016, the Botswana Government updated their laws concerning travelling with minors. The Ministry of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs informs the general public and travel industry that it has imposed requirements for minors (children under 18) travelling through the country's ports of entry.

Minors travelling through Botswana's borders will be required to produce certified copies of unabridged birth certificates in addition to their valid passports. In the event that one parent is not travelling with the child, the other parent's affidavit consenting to such travel should be presented. However, an affidavit will not be required if the father's name does not appear on the child's birth certificate. The Director of Immigration and Citizenship, Mr Mabuse Pule has been spoken to, and whilst there is yet to be updates to various government websites, it has been communicated in an official letter received from the Botswana Ministry of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs, it was stated the decision is due to an enactment of the United Nations Anti Human Trafficking Protocol.

The following documents will be required when travelling to Botswana with minors (18 years and below):

Valid Passport
Valid VISA, if required
Unabridged Birth Certificate (Birth Certificate containing the particulars of a minor and those of the parents)
A letter of consent from the other parent should the minor be travelling with one parent

These requirements are similar to the ones introduced by South Africa in June 2015, and as such, should not affect our guests to a great extent as most of them travel through South Africa before entering Botswana and should already have the correct documentation.

Tipping/Gratuities

Tipping is not compulsory. If, however, you would like to tip because you have received good service, we have enclosed a brief guideline to assist you. The amounts are not set in stone and you can tip less than the guidline or more.

You may wish to add a nominal amount ranging between US$ 10 to US$ 30 per day for incidentals (subject to personal budget choice) – i.e. if additional activities are booked once on your journey, if travel arrangements change for any reason, in acknowledgement of good service received in another area, etc.

Guides, Specialist Guides & Butlers – We recommend US$5 to US$ 10 per guest per day.

Mokoro Paddlers & Trackers – We recommend that each paddler receive US$ 3 to $5 per guest per day and that camp/lodge trackers receive US$ 3 to $5 per guest per day.

The General Safari Camp, Lodge or Hotel Staff – We recommend about US$ 5 to $10 per guest per day for safari camps/lodges. This should be placed in the communal tipping box to be distributed equally amongst all the staff.

Transfer Driver – We recommend about US$ 2.00 to US$ 3.00 per guest per movement.

Porterage – We recommend about US$ 2.00 to US$ 3.00 per guest per movement.

We recommend tipping your guide directly and making use of the gratuity box in the main area for the general camp/lodge staff.