Zimbabwe: Northern Highlights

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.

Visa
Fees for Visitors to Zimbabwe who are eligible to receive their visa on entry
Europe and USA: U$D 30.00 for single entry/ U$D 45.00 for double entry.
UK & Ireland: U$D 55.00 for single entry/ U$D 70.00 for double entry.
Canada: U$D 75.00 for single entry/ double entry to be obtained from local embassy prior to travel

Some visitors need to apply for visas before arrival - please check with your Embassy, Zimbabwe Government Visa Requirements. ALWAYS have cash available in the correct USD amount at ALL ports of entry.

Kaza Univisa – Zimbabwe and Zambia

Travellers planning to visit both Zimbabwe and Zambia should apply for a UniVisa (also known as KAZA visa). The visa can be obtained in advance, as well as at ports of entry, but cannot be guaranteed.

The UniVisa allows travellers 30 days travel within both Zambia and Zimbabwe, and is also valid for daytrips to Botswana. Travellers must remain within Zambia & Zimbabwe for the visa to stay valid. Visiting Botswana as a daytrip will not affect the visa’s validity, provided travellers return to Zambia or Zimbabwe the same day.

Internal Flights and Transfers
Due to the remote areas the camps and lodges are based in, transfers between camps may take place by boat, train, game drive vehicle or light aircraft.

Departure Taxes
International departure taxes are included in the scheduled flight rates. However light aircraft transfers from Victoria Falls Airport to Livingstone or Kasane require an International Departure tax of US$35 per person & AIDF Levy of US$15 = US$50 per person to be paid in cash.

Domestic departure taxes are payable in cash at the airport, for any flights departing internally from any registered, manned airport. These include Harare, Bulawayo, Kariba, Hwange and Victoria Falls Airport. The amount is US$10 departure tax + US$5 AIDF Levy = US$15 per person. We recommend small denominations for easier and quicker transactions as change is not always available. Traveller’s cheques and credit cards are NOT accepted.

Currency

The currency of Zimbabwe is the American Dollar (US$). US$ Dollar notes (2007 Series onwards), and Visa and MasterCard are accepted. South African Rand and Euros are only accepted in some places in Victoria Falls. Always have enough US$ cash available in smaller denominations in the event where ATM's and Credit Card facilities are not operational.

Banking

Banks in Zimbabwe are open for business Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 08h00 to 15h00, on Wednesdays from 08h00 to 13h00 and Saturdays from 08h00 to 11h30. They are closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.

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.

Departure Taxes
International departure taxes are included in the scheduled flight rates. However light aircraft transfers from Victoria Falls Airport to Livingstone or Kasane require an International Departure tax of US$35 per person & AIDF Levy of $15 = $50 per person to be paid in cash.

Domestic departure taxes are payable in cash at the airport, for any flights departing internally from any registered, manned airport. These include Harare, Bulawayo, Kariba, Hwange and Victoria Falls Airport. The amount is US$10 departure tax + US$5 AIDF Levy = US$15 per person. We recommend small denominations for easier and quicker transactions as change is not always available. Traveller’s cheques and credit cards are NOT accepted.

Due to the remote areas the camps and lodges are based in, transfers between camps may take place by boat, train, game drive vehicle or light aircraft.

Taxis are safe and reliable, and can be booked through your hotel front desk. Taxis in cities travel within a 40km radius of the city. Always take a taxi at night.

Major airlines fly into Victoria Falls, Harare and Bulawayo. Charter flights are available to most attractions and camps. 

Zimbabwe has a good road infrastructure, by African standards, although potholed. Between major towns, there are frequent road blocks. Traffic drives on the left side of the road. 

If you are driving yourself around Zimbabwe, be sure to check on fuel availability in advance. If you are covering long distances within the country, ensure you carry extra fuel in 5 or 10lt metal containers in case of emergency. Fuel is generally available, but supply can fluctuate. Fuel is only available for cash.

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 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Limited 
Public parks: Limited 
Libraries: Limited 

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.