Victoria Falls, Wallow Lodge, Zimbabwe - SAM

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.

All visitors require tickets and documents for return or onward journeys, as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay. Visa charges are payable in US Dollars cash and have been known to fluctuate so it is recommended that visitors confirm visa costs before arrival in the country.

Please see notes on Kaza/ Univisa below

European Union, USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia & New Zealand

A valid passport and visa is required. A 90 day holiday visa or 30 day business visa can be obtained for a fee charged in US Dollars. Procuring your visa prior to arrival is recommended.

South Africa:

South Africans must have a passport valid for at least the period of stay in the country. A visa is required – a 90-day holiday visa or 30-day business visa can be obtained free of charge.

Visit: www.zimbabwetourism.co.zw/entryrequ.htm for visa application contact information.

* Kaza / Univisa

With effect of 21st of December 2016 the Kaza Uni-Visa will be reinstated. The Governments of the Republics of Zambia and Zimbabwe are pleased to announce the re-launch of the Kavango Zambezi Trans-Frontier Conservation Area (Kaza) Uni-Visa on 21st December 2016.

The Uni-Visa will be issued at a standard fee of US$50. Guests must have US$50 cash available for payment in the event there are no credit card payment facilities at the port of entry.

Validity – the Kaza Uni-Visa will be valid for 30 days and act as a multiple entry visa as long as you remain in Zimbabwe and Zambia i.e. clients can cross into Zimbabwe/Zambia as frequently as they like within the 30 day period. It also covers those who visit Botswana for day trips through the Kazangula Borders, however, it will not be valid if staying in Botswana overnight. In this case, you would need to purchase a new Visa.

Clients will be directed to the dedicated counter where the special visa shall be issued – the visa is for holiday purposes only and not for business purposes.

Currency

Zimbabwe uses US$ as it's own unit of currency (the Zimbabwe Dollar) is suspended. South African Rands and Euros are also widely accepted. It is advised to carry small denominations of change with you, however it is best to pay for as much as possible outside of the country.

South African Rands work well in supermarkets, whle US$ are proferred for curios, accommodation and activities.

Banking

Banks in Zimbabwe are open for business Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 08h00 to 15h00, on Wednesdays from 08h00 to 13h00 and Fridays from 08h00 to 11h30. They are closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.

Taxis are safe and reliable, and can be booked through your hotel front desk. Taxis in cities travel within a 40km radius of the city. Always take a taxi at night.

Major airlines fly into Victoria Falls, Harare and Bulawayo. Charter flights are available to most attractions and camps.

Zimbabwe has a good road infrastructure, by African standards, although potholed. Between major towns, there are frequent road blocks. Traffic drives on the left side of the road.

Travellers passing through countries affected by yellow fever require a vaccination certificate. Precautions against Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, bilharzias and rabies are also recommended. Zimbabwe has a high prevalence of AIDS/HIV.

Malaria is a year round risk 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 mosquito-borne diseases. Prophylactic medication is advised but note that mosquitoes in this region are chloroquine resistant.

Cholera outbreaks can occur especially during the rainy season when flooding and contamination of water sources takes place. Visitors are advised to take food and hygiene precautions. The standard of tap water in urban areas is considered low but bottled water is available.

There is a shortage of medication and staff in public hospitals so it is advisable to bring a supply of personal medication and ensure that you have adequate medical cover before travelling. Private clinics expect cash payment and medical costs can be high.

A new coalition government was formed following elections in 2008. Political tensions still prevail but the situation is improving and the social and economic infrastructure of the country is slowly being rebuilt. Many tourist centres have been largely unaffected by political and social unrest but opportunistic crime still occurs.

It is advisable to travel with a recognised tour operator to established tourist destinations. Tourists are advised to avoid displays of wealth. Valuables and passports should be kept out of sight or preferably left in a hotel safe. Visitors should be cautious at ATMs and after dark.

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: No 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: Zimbabwean cuisine is influenced by traditional African dishes and British colonial heritage. Sadza, a thick maize porridge, is a staple, often served with meat and vegetables. Other popular dishes include Nyama, a grilled meat dish, and Mopane worms. 

Drinks: Notable local drinks include Chibuku (traditional beer) and maheu (fermented drink). 

Tipping: 10-15% is customary in restaurants if a service charge is not included. 

Summer runs from November to April and has hot, sunny days in the main centres and hotter weather in the low-lying areas such as the Zambezi Valley, Kariba and Victoria Falls. Summer coincides with the rainy season when afternoon thunderstorms are possible, although the Eastern Highlands experience rain throughout most of the year. Winter runs from June to August with warm dry days but a vast drop in temperature at night. Being the most pleasant time to travel and the best time for game viewing and white water rafting, winter is also the peak tourist season.

Generally, casual comfortable clothing is suitable for Zimbabwe throughout the year. For your Zimbabwe safari, pack lightweight clothing in light, neutral colours (but not white as it gets dirty very easily). Include a warm jacket or fleece in your suitcase for evening game drives as well as a pair of comfortable walking shoes. It's probably wise to wear closed-toe athletic or hiking shoes in the event you're on a safari. However, if you're only exploring the immediate falls area (especially the places you're going to get drenched), then perhaps shoes that can handle water (like Keens or other forms of water shoes). It is possible to wear sandals or Chacos, but keep in mind there are risks involved with that.

Hat, sunscreen, insect repellant, Poncho or raincoat, camera, quick-drying clothing. Long sleeve and long pants also serve as an additional protection against both sunburn and mosquito bites.

Camouflage-patterned clothing is not permitted in Zimbabwe. This applies to any clothing that can be construed as mimicking military-wear. Travellers are urged not to wear, or even carry, any military-inspired clothing while travelling in Zimbabwe.

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