Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is the ideal destination for travellers who are looking for a safari experience beyond merely observing wildlife from a game viewing vehicle. This country is one where interactive experiences stretch far and wide. Various wilderness experiences can be enjoyed in the numerous parks - from day and night-time Game Drives in open vehicles to boat cruises, walking safaris, canoeing and houseboats - not to mention the world-famous Victoria Falls. Those who visit Zimbabwe can expect breath-taking nature, exotic wildlife, and ancient sites that offer a fascinating insight into the history of the African continent. The vistas seen from the range of viewpoints throughout the region provide panoramic landscapes filled with unworldly beauty. In addition, Zimbabwe's world-class Game Reserves and UNESCO World Heritage Sites have remained relatively untouched and are surprisingly uncrowded. Thus, giving you the surreal feeling that you have stepped off the world map.

       


Banking and Currency

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


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

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


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

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. 


Climate and Weather

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. 


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

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 Availability

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


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type D, Type G
Voltage (V): 220/240
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50

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


Botswana

The landlocked African country of Botswana consists of a beautiful tableland spread across the middle of southern Africa. It consists of unfenced game reserves, friendly people, and incredible natural elegance. Landscapes vary between deserts and deltas and play home to a wide variety of animal life. With rock art dating back at least 100,000 years, the Kalahari Sand Dunes dominate western Botswana's landscape and are a cultural and historical highlight. In addition to the Kalahari, the country is also engulfed by the Makgadikgadi salt pan, accompanied by the vast inland delta of the Okavango - an oasis of lagoons and channels amidst grasslands, palms and Mopane forests. Botswana offers the chance to see all of the Big Five in one place, including the largest population of elephants on the continent. The country has indeed become the pride of Africa, with its exceptional beauty, majestic wildlife, natural wonders, and warm locals, making it a place to visit. 


General Guidance

VERY IMPORTANT: Travel with Minors (under 18) to Botswana 

Strict entry requirements apply for minors entering Botswana. Guests traveling with children under 18 must carry the following documents, even if both parents are travelling:

  • An unabridged birth certificate listing both parents (mandatory).
  • Affidavit(s) in the following cases:
  • If traveling with one parent: affidavit from the non-traveling parent.
  • If traveling without either parent: affidavits from both parents.
  • Please note: Abridged birth certificates are not accepted.

Failure to produce these documents may result in denied entry into Botswana, causing complications such as delays for other travelers and difficulties in returning to the point of departure.


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