SPIRIT OF ZIMBABWE - 9 DAYS

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.

A passport, valid for at least six months beyond your last date of stay in Zimbabwe, is mandatory.  One blank page (in addition to any pages required by other countries in your itinerary) will be required for official use.

Visas are required for US passport holders entering Zimbabwe. These can be secured on arrival with payment of $30.00 per person, US currency.  Travelers also entering Zambia can request a Uni-Visa (good for both countries) on arrival, at a cost of $50.00 US.  Requirements for passport holders of other countries vary.

Proof of yellow fever inoculation (administered at least 10 days before arrival) is required whenever travelers are arriving after having stayed in or transited (more than 12 hours) through any yellow fever country.  Your (yellow) official medical card must be presented.

It is the sole responsibility of the traveler to understand and fulfill any entry requirements.

Currency

Zimbabwe uses the Zimbabwe Dollar (ZWL). Limited amounts of currency may be available from banks and ATM's within the country.

Only VISA and MasterCard are accepted in Zimbabwe, however it should be noted that very limited facilities will have credit card machines, and the connection is not always reliable so it is advisable to carry cash as back up.

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.

Water in the main towns is usually purified.. The locals drink it, and are used to the relatively innocuous bugs that it may harbor. 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 or treated water,  generally supplied by your hotel or lodge.

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 become much cooler, 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.

When in Zimbabwe the cardinal rule is to wear casual, comfortable clothes during the day as temperatures can get very hot. It is advisable to wear light loose fitting clothing,   Warmer clothes are advised for the evenings and rainwear for the wet season. 

A  hat and sunglasses are a good idea year round. Long sleeved shirts and long trousers will also guard against the scourching sun rays. It is recommended you wear light shoes, especially if your itinerary entails a lot of walking. 

For safaris, please remember to wear appropriate clothing and shoes. Earth color clothes, such as browns, greens and tans are advisable. 

Internet availability is very limited especially outside of the major cities. 

Most holiday accommodation venues offer internet and/or WiFi (free or paid) to their guests but there are often disruptions in service.