Adventure Activities and Assumption of Risk
Certain activities available during your travel experience, such as game drives, walking safaris, motor boating, mokoro, bungee jumping, primate trekking, hot air balloon, helicopters, white-water rafting, and similar high-adventure pursuits, carry inherent risks. We partner with trusted operators who prioritize safety; however, by choosing to participate in these activities, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk and accept full responsibility for any potential outcomes or consequences that may arise (such as personal injury, illness, or other hazards). Please be advised that certain insurance policies may not cover these activities. We recommend reviewing your insurance coverage and, if necessary, obtaining additional insurance to ensure adequate protection.
Zimbabwe has been called “the most beautiful country on the continent”, due to its spectacular natural scenery, pristine, untouched, and remote wilderness areas, and a staggering abundance and diversity of wildlife – it has some of the best game-viewing in Africa. The country is also home to two mighty rivers – the Zambezi and the Limpopo – and enormous, beautiful Lake Kariba, the largest man-made lake in the world (by volume). In addition to its wealth of natural history, the country also has a rich cultural history, with the magnificent ancient ruins of Great Zimbabwe and some of the best-preserved ancient rock paintings in Africa. Zimbabwe has also been called “Real Africa”, unspoiled and wild. Visitors who come here for safaris have authentic and intimate experiences with wildlife, without the long lines of vehicles found in many other parks on the continent. Hwange National Park is well-known for its enormous herds of elephants, and Mana Pools is a watery wildlife haven, offering wildlife adventures by jeep, foot, boat and canoe.
Last, but certainly not least, there is the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world and the “Adrenalin Capital of the World”, where the adventurous can bungee jump into a precipitous gorge, go white water rafting, or take the helicopter “Flight of Angels”.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Zimbabwean Dollar
Symbol: Z$
ISO code: ZWL
Subunit: Cent
Banknotes: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 dollar
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cent, 1, 2, 5 dollar
Banking
Card Transactions: Limited
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Limited acceptance
Diner’s club: Limited acceptance
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Weekends: Limited hours in some locations
Public Holidays: Yes (limited hours)
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
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
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
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Limited
Public parks: Limited
Libraries: Limited
Electricity and Plug Standards
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.
