Zimbabwe - private family or group trip Mana Pools, Lake Kariba, Victoria Falls

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.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Zimbabwe, your passport must have:

• an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive
• 3 blank pages, in case you need to enter Zimbabwe and exit through one of the neighbouring countries or if you need to leave at short notice

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Dual nationals

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement.

You must have a visa to visit Zimbabwe. Most visitors get their visa on arrival.

Applying for a visa

The visa on arrival is usually granted for 30 days. Take enough US dollars with you in small notes to pay for your visa. See information on visa fees from the Zimbabwean Embassy.   

It is possible to apply for an e-visa before you travel, with options for single entry or double entry visas at different prices. You can apply online here: https://www.evisa.gov.zw/index.html

You can also use the KAZA Univisa in Zimbabwe. It is valid for travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia and for day trips into Botswana. The KAZA Univisa is available at Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls airports and at the land borders at Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe-Zambia border) and Kazungula (Zimbabwe-Botswana border). It costs 50 US dollars and is valid for 30 days.

It is no longer possible to get a visa from the Zimbabwean Embassy in London.

Certificate requirements

Please read the information below carefully, as certificate requirements may be relevant to certain travellers only. For travellers further details, if required, should be sought from their healthcare professional.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country, however, there is a certificate requirement.
• Under International Health Regulations, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over 9 months of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• According to World Health Organization (WHO), from 11 July 2016 (for all countries), the yellow fever certificate will be valid for the duration of the life of the person vaccinated. As a consequence, a valid certificate, presented by arriving travellers, cannot be rejected on the grounds that more than ten years have passed since the date vaccination became effective as stated on the certificate; and that boosters or revaccination cannot be required.

View the list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission here: https://nathnacyfzone.org.uk/factsheet/65/countries-with-risk-of-yellow-fever-transmission

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that you can take into or out of Zimbabwe. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Arms embargo

There is a UK arms embargo against Zimbabwe. It is an offence in UK law to take firearms into Zimbabwe, even if you plan to bring them back to the UK.

Gemstones

Do not carry any precious or semi-precious stones without the correct paperwork.

Pornographic material

It is illegal to carry or import pornographic material.

Taking money into and out of Zimbabwe

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 10,000 US dollars or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. It is illegal to leave Zimbabwe with cash worth more than 2,000 US dollars.

Currency
Local currency: Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG)
Symbol: ZiG
ISO code: ZWG
Subunit: Cent
Banknotes: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 ZiG
Coins: 1, 2, 5 ZIG

Note: US Dollars are widely accepted and commonly used alongside the local currency.

Banking

Card Transactions: Limited
ATMs: Yes, cash withdrawals may be limited and often dispense US dollars. Some ATMs may not accept foreign cards, so check with your bank.
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Limited acceptance
Diner’s club: Limited acceptance

Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM/4:30PM
Weekends: Limited hours in some locations on Saturdays and closed on Sundays.
Public Holidays: Closed
Foreign exchange services: Yes

Air:
Main airlines: Air Zimbabwe
International Airports: Harare International Airport (HRE), Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ)
Domestic Airports: Yes, in major cities and tourist areas

Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes, in rural areas
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

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 from a mobile phone and ask for an ambulance.  

Zimbabwe’s emergency response capabilities are limited and, in many places, you will need to make local arrangements for transport.

The Official Government of Zimbabwe web portal has a full list of emergency numbers.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Zimbabwe
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

There are currently a number of disease outbreaks in Zimbabwe. For more information, please see: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/248/zimbabwe#Vaccine_Recommendations

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on Travel Health Pro, here: https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/factsheet/43/medicines-abroad

Healthcare in Zimbabwe

Healthcare provision and quality in Zimbabwe is variable and can be very poor outside of the major cities.

There are shortages of drugs and trained medical staff in hospitals, making it difficult for hospitals to treat some illnesses and trauma cases.

Emergency response capabilities are limited.

Private clinics will not treat patients until they pay and often require large amounts of cash before they will admit emergency cases, even if you have travel insurance. Many businesses in Zimbabwe will only accept US dollars in cash, rather than credit or debit cards. This includes some medical providers. Medical costs, particularly for evacuation, can be high. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Zimbabwe where most staff will speak English, which can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/zimbabwe-list-of-medical-facilities

Terrorism in Zimbabwe

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Zimbabwe, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation

Demonstrations and rallies can be unpredictable and may turn violent. Authorities have in the past used force to suppress them. Avoid political gatherings or activities which could be considered political, including political discussions in public places or online.

It is illegal to make derogatory or insulting comments about the President or to carry material considered to be offensive towards the office of President.

Blackouts and water rationing

There are frequent, and sometimes long, power blackouts because of electricity shortages. During blackouts, traffic lights may not work. There is also water rationing in parts of the country. Contact your tour operator or hotel for the latest updates.

Mobile network and landlines

The Zimbabwean mobile phone network and landlines are unreliable.

Crime - Protecting yourself and your belongings

There is a moderate level of crime in Zimbabwe. People travelling alone may be more vulnerable. Mugging, pickpocketing and bag-snatching are common in city centres, especially after dark. Street lighting can be poor. Be vigilant when leaving banks and ATMs. Do not carry or display large amounts of cash in public places.

There have been occasional armed robberies targeting foreign residents. Make sure your accommodation is always secure.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Carry a copy of your passport’s photo page and your visa at all times. Leave your original passport somewhere safe. If you lose your UK passport, get a police report. You may need to show this to immigration to explain why you have no proof of entry when you depart.

Zimbabwean residents must carry their residence card.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.

Airports in Zimbabwe have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

Money

Zimbabwe’s economy is unpredictable. Monetary policy can change at short notice.

Zimbabwe has a multi-currency system. You can use US dollars for most transactions. In April 2024, Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) was introduced as a new currency to replace the Zimbabwean dollar. The US dollar remains legal tender.

It is illegal to exchange foreign currency anywhere other than at officially licensed dealers such as banks or bureaux de change. Bureaux de change will accept and change foreign currency, particularly US dollars.

There is a shortage of physical US dollar cash, so it’s not always possible to make withdrawals using an international debit or credit card. Change is rarely available, so carry small denomination notes. Do not accept torn or damaged notes in change as shops and restaurants are likely to refuse them. 

Check in advance what payment methods a restaurant, hotel or tour operator will accept. Some businesses, including some medical providers, may not accept credit or debit cards. Most suppliers prefer US dollars in cash.

International money transfers from outside Zimbabwe are not always successful.

Using cameras and binoculars in secure areas

It is illegal to take photographs of government offices, airports, military establishments, political party offices, official residences, embassies and other sensitive locations without special permission from the Ministry of Information. It is also illegal to photograph police and armed forces personnel, demonstrations and protests. The police strictly enforce these laws. You should exercise caution and avoid taking photos or videos that might accidentally include sensitive buildings or personnel.

State House in Harare

Armed members of the Presidential Guard patrol the area around State House in Harare (the President’s official residence). They do not allow loitering by motorists, cyclists or pedestrians, and it is illegal to take photographs. The roads in this area are closed from 6pm to 6am. Do not use GPS navigation systems around the President’s residence and, if possible, avoid the area altogether.

Journalism and social media

The Zimbabwean government uses a broad definition of journalism. This may include any form of interview, filming or photography. Journalism is illegal without accreditation. See Entry requirements. Consider carefully the risks of any social media activities, including posting comments, blogging or sharing photographs, which can be seen as journalism.

Dual nationality

Zimbabwe’s position on dual nationality has been inconsistent. The Constitutional Court has ruled that some categories of dual nationality are legal, and that Zimbabwean citizens by birth may hold dual nationality. However, Zimbabwean law prohibits dual citizenship for those who acquire Zimbabwean citizenship by descent or registration. The authorities may obstruct, detain or even seek to prosecute someone they consider an offender.  

If you are a British national considering acquiring Zimbabwean citizenship, you should take legal advice.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its parts without a licence. Buying or trafficking such items risks prosecution and a prison sentence of up to 9 years.

Camouflage clothing

It is illegal for civilians to wear any form of clothing made from camouflage material.

LGBT+ travellers

Sex between men and same-sex marriage are illegal in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwean society remains conservative towards same-sex relations, especially between men. However, there is a small but active underground LGBT+ scene in Harare and prosecutions are rare. Be aware that showing affection in public could result in unwanted attention.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers. You can also find more local information from the GALZ Association.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Safari lodges and game reserves

Safety standards in Zimbabwe’s safari lodges and game reserves vary. Check with the Safari Operators Association of Zimbabwe whether operators are trained and licensed. Animal attacks have injured and killed visitors.

Treat wild animals with caution and always keep a safe distance. Some activities, such as walking or canoe safaris, could pose risks to personal safety. Make sure your travel insurance covers all the activities you plan on doing in Zimbabwe.

Transport risks

Driving standards and road conditions

The standard of driving is very poor in Zimbabwe. Traffic accidents are a common cause of death and injury. Hazards include:

• deep potholes
• broken traffic lights
• vehicles without lights (including heavy good vehicles and cyclists)
• poorly lit roads
• badly marked roads
• stray livestock
• pedestrians

Emergency services may provide very limited help in the event of an accident and ambulances are unreliable.

You should:

• always wear a seatbelt
• lock car doors
• avoid driving outside main towns at night
• travel carefully on roads between cities
• carry a comprehensive medical kit
• be careful about stopping at laybys

Taxis

Taxis recommended by hotels are usually reliable and in good condition. Major hotels usually have their own taxis.

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. 

Annual rainfall: Varies 
Average temperature: 22°C 

Summer: 
Average highs: 30°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: 25°C 
Average lows: 10°C 

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Zimbabwe is during the dry season from May to October when wildlife viewing is at its best, especially in national parks like Hwange and Mana Pools. The weather is generally pleasant during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities. 

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, mainly in major cities
Accommodation: Yes, including hotels, guesthouses, and lodges
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Limited
Public parks: Limited, in urban areas
Libraries: Limited