**Travel Guidance with Mutondo Safaris**
Thank you for choosing Mutondo Safaris for your adventure! To ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey, please consider the following travel guidance:
1. **Documentation:**
- Ensure all travelers have valid passports with sufficient pages and validity.
- Check visa requirements for all countries on your itinerary.
- Keep a copy of your itinerary, passports, and visas in a secure location.
2. **Health Precautions:**
- Consult with a healthcare professional for recommended vaccinations and prophylaxis.
- Carry necessary medications and a basic first aid kit.
- Be aware of health and safety protocols related to specific destinations.
3. **Insurance:**
- Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal belongings.
- Ensure coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.
4. **Baggage Restrictions:**
- Adhere to specified baggage restrictions, especially for flight transfers.
- Pack essentials in carry-on bags for convenience.
5. **Communication:**
- Keep the Mutondo Safaris contact information handy.
- Share your travel itinerary and Mutondo Safaris contact details with family or friends.
6. **Responsibility:**
- Abide by Mutondo Safaris' Terms & Conditions.
- Follow lawful instructions from Mutondo Safaris representatives.
- Promptly communicate any changes or concerns to Mutondo Safaris.
7. **Behavior:**
- Be considerate of fellow travelers and enjoy a shared travel experience.
- Follow ethical wildlife viewing practices and respect local customs.
8. **Payments:**
- Adhere to payment schedules and methods outlined in the Terms & Conditions.
- Inform Mutondo Safaris of any payment-related concerns promptly.
9. **Emergency Preparedness:**
- Familiarize yourself with emergency evacuation procedures.
- Carry a copy of Mutondo Safaris' emergency contact information.
10. **Communication during the Safari:**
- Stay informed about daily itineraries and activities.
- Immediately report any concerns to Mutondo Safaris representatives.
11. **Environmental Responsibility:**
- Follow Leave No Trace principles during wildlife activities.
- Minimize your ecological footprint and respect the natural surroundings.
12. **Cultural Sensitivity:**
- Respect local cultures and traditions.
- Seek guidance from Mutondo Safaris on cultural etiquette.
13. **Enjoy the Experience:**
- Immerse yourself in the beauty of Africa.
- Capture memories responsibly, ensuring minimal impact on wildlife.
By adhering to this guidance, you contribute to the success of your safari and the preservation of Africa's unique ecosystems. We wish you an incredible journey with Mutondo Safaris!
*--End--*
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.
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.
