Zimbabwe is a beautiful African country located between South Africa and Zambia. It is one of the most diverse countries in the world, home to stunning mountains, vast plains, and crystal-clear rivers. Zimbabwe offers something for everyone – no matter your budget, you will find something perfect for your holiday.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about traveling to Zimbabwe and exploring the best parts of this beautiful country:
Overview of Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is a remarkable country located in the south-central part of Africa. It has a population of over 18 million. Zimbabwe shares borders with Botswana, Zambia, South Africa, and Mozambique. Harare is the capital city and offers numerous attractions for visitors to explore. Tourism is one of the major industries in Zimbabwe, and visitors are drawn to its extensive wildlife areas and stunning landscapes, as well as its ancient culture and vibrant cities.
Zimbabwe has a diverse climate ranging from subtropical in some regions to temperate in others. There are four distinct seasons—summer (November to April), winter (May to August), rain season (February to March), and spring (September to October). Different languages are spoken throughout Zimbabwe, with Shona being the most commonly used language, followed by Ndebele and English as official languages.
When traveling around Zimbabwe, public transportation can be unreliable or sparse, depending on your location. For example, most buses cannot travel at night or during a holiday, so plan your journeys carefully when using public transportation. As an alternative, renting a car can be an ideal way to get around the country and explore at your own pace without needing timetables or fixed routes laid out by your travel provider.
With its impressive range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels, beach resorts, safari lodges, and traditional homestays, there’s something for everyone on a Zimbabwean holiday!
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Zimbabwe enjoys a predominantly subtropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. The country’s dry season, from April through October, is usually mild and sunny. However, wet season temperatures can soar, with days reaching up to 30°C (86°F).
The best time to visit Zimbabwe depends on your preferences. During the dry season, conditions are generally cool and dry, making it a great time to explore national parks and gaze in awe at Victoria Falls. Zimbabwe is also popular during the wetter months when landscape views are transformed from crisp deserts to lush vegetation. In addition, water-based adventures are an ideal way to enjoy nature during this time of year. Remember that accommodations may be more expensive during peak season (December – January), so consider this if you choose to visit at this time.
Accommodation
Zimbabwe has various accommodation options available depending on your budget and travel plans. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, there are plenty of choices for travelers in Zimbabwe.
In this section, we’ll look at some of the best accommodation options in Zimbabwe and what amenities are available:
Hotels
There are numerous places to stay in Zimbabwe, depending on your preference and budget. As with most countries, larger cities will have more variations in prices and types of accommodations than rural areas. Hotels are the most common accommodation in Zimbabwe and can be found in almost all major cities. If you’re looking for luxury or a more upmarket experience, there are plenty of five-star hotels with excellent facilities and rooms to fit any budget.
At the mid-range level, you can find three-star resorts which offer comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. Most resort hotels have swimming pools and other recreational amenities that make lodging an enjoyable experience. On the lower end of the spectrum are two-star budget hotels that usually provide basic amenities like air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and wireless internet access at a fraction of the cost compared to more luxurious options.
For those wanting a home away from home experience, holiday rentals or villas offer a great alternative way to stay while visiting Zimbabwe. Holiday rentals can range from one-bedroom apartments to fully stocked family homes – ideal for large groups or those looking for a longer stay in the country. In addition, holiday homes give visitors access to a private kitchen where they can cook their meals and other amenities such as cable TV or pool access, depending on which property you choose to rent.
Hostels
Hostels provide a cost-effective way to travel and are well-suited to young travelers. Typically located in convenient city centers near attractions, hostels offer travelers a central hub for meeting other like-minded backpackers and exploring the city.
Most hostels have shared sleeping arrangements, but they may also offer private rooms, depending on the property. Shared sleeping is generally done in dormitories that are divided into either gender or mixed gender, with the number of beds ranging from 4 to 40 or more, depending on size. When booking a hostel room, you may want to consider whether you’re comfortable sleeping in an open space with strangers, whether you’ll need your bedding, or if the hostel provides this.
The costs of staying at a hostel depend on location and available facilities, ranging from budget accommodations to upscale premium stays. Typically, budget accommodations will have communal bathrooms, while higher-end accommodations may provide private bathrooms, laundry facilities, and bar and restaurant spaces for guests to socialize.
Other amenities available at some hostels include access to fitness centers, internet cafes, swimming pools, saunas, and outdoor terraces with views of the city skyline or beachfront.
Camping Sites
Zimbabwe is a country of vast natural beauty and great potential for outdoor adventure. With national parks, game reserves, and some enticing sites for the outdoor enthusiast, camping can be a fun and affordable way to explore the country.
The main camping sites are in renowned national parks: Hwange National Park, Matopos National Park, Victoria Falls National Park, and Bundu National Park. These locations offer an array of choices for camping styles, from rustic bush camps to luxury tented camps. Many have restricted areas to ensure visitors have a safe environment free from wildlife intrusion. In contrast, others offer access to communal cooking facilities, public ablutions, and laundry services.
For something a little different, there are off-the-beaten-track campsites akin to Zimbabwe’s many community projects that provide unique cultural experiences ranging from safari-style adventures to visits to traditional African cultures. These are available throughout Zimbabwe in many remote encampments at private gardens and stretches of scenic highways.
Whether you’re looking for convenience or something more tailored towards your tastes – there is bound to be a camping site or two throughout Zimbabwe that has suited just right for you!
Transportation
Zimbabwe has a vast network of transportation options available to travelers. Whether you are looking to fly from one city to another by air or take a train cross-country, Zimbabwe has various options to get you around the country.
From air travel to cars, buses, and even trains, we will go through all the options available for getting around Zimbabwe:
- Air Travel
- Cars
- Buses
- Trains
Air
Zimbabwe has four international airports, a few of which offer direct flights. Harare International Airport is the busiest hub for domestic and regional flights. Air Zimbabwe is the national carrier with several international destinations, including London, Johannesburg, Dubai, and Beijing. Other local operators serve regional destinations mainly within Africa.
For domestic travel, flying is often quicker than using a bus or hiring a car – even if you incur relatively high ticket prices due to limited competition in the industry. In addition, many smaller airstrips for light aircraft exist throughout the country as part of privately-run air charter services.
The more popular routes from Harare include:
- Victoria Falls International Airport with local operators like Fastjet, Air Zimbabwe, and Solenta Aviation.
- Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International near Bulawayo.
- Buffalo Range Airport in Chiredzi.
- Victoria Falls airport is close to Kazungula Border Post.
- Hwange National Park Airstrip.
- Kariba Airport.
- Masvingo Airport in Masvingo town is close to Great Zimbabwe Monument.
- Mana Pools Fly-in farm airstrip located at Mana Pools National Park on the Zambezi River.
Bus
Buses form the backbone of Zimbabwe’s public transportation system and are widely used by locals and visitors alike. They generally run along a network of fixed routes, although the route can change depending on demand. Most buses in the country are owned by private companies and have comfortable air-conditioned interiors with cloth-covered seating. Many also feature onboard entertainment systems for passengers to enjoy during their journey.
Prices for bus travel vary depending on route and type of service, though it is usually more affordable than other transportation options such as taxis or rental cars. Certain inter-city routes may require reservations in advance, while others allow you to hop on at any point. It is advised to plan if traveling during peak hours or holidays due to limited seating available on some routes.
In major cities such as Harare or Bulawayo, there are two main types of buses: large long-distance coaches and smaller city buses that ply between suburbs. In addition, smaller sightseeing and tour operators offer local day trips and week-long itineraries with passage around popular sights in different parts of Zimbabwe, often at discounted prices when bought online in advance. Safety is assured since all vehicles used by these firms are regularly maintained and licensed according to government regulations for passenger transport services.
Car
A private car is often the best way to get around Zimbabwe. The country’s roads are well-paved, and most major kilometers are covered by paved highways, although rural sections remain accessible by unpaved roads. However, there is no public transportation system, and the only way to travel long distances is by train or plane.
Renting a car requires a valid driver’s license from your home country. However, some rental companies accept international driving licenses from Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Germany, and specific African countries. Usually, a credit card and deposit are required to guarantee payment of any damages resulting during your rental period.
Regarding rapid transit in Zimbabwe, three car rental companies currently offer self-drive or chauffeured services – Europcar, Budget Rent-A-Car, and International Rent-A-Car. Additionally, some cities have an Uber-like ride-hail app called MytaxiyZim, allowing passengers to organize their journeys online.
Sightseeing
Zimbabwe is a beautiful country with plenty of sights and sounds to explore. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the bustling city of Bulawayo, there is something for everyone in Zimbabwe. The country has a lot to offer, whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure or a relaxing retreat.
This guide will explore the main attractions for sightseeing in Zimbabwe:
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls, located in southern Zimbabwe, is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. While the Zambezi river runs along the edges of four countries (Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe), Victoria Falls is one of Zimbabwe’s main attractions. Those who visit will be amazed by the sight – a mile-wide stretch of thundering white water stretching across two countries over a 108-meter drop. It’s not just a treat for your eyes – there are plenty of activities to choose from, such as bungee jumping, white water rafting in grade-five rapids, and zipline tours through Rainbow Gorge. Those who want something less adventurous can take part in a game drive at Mosi-oa Tunya National Park or view wildlife from the sky during an awe-inspiring helicopter ride over Victoria Falls itself.
No matter what you choose to do while visiting Victoria Falls, remember that this destination can take your breath away with its incredible sights and fascinating wildlife. So plan accordingly, come prepared, and don’t forget to bring your camera!
Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park is one of Zimbabwe’s premier game reserves. It lies in the northwest corner of the country, near the borders with Botswana and Zambia. Home to some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife, Hwange is a thrilling destination for any safari enthusiast. Its immense 5,660 square miles are rich in biodiversity, offering visitors a different environment to explore depending on the season.
Summer months bring together huge herds of elephants that migrate across Kalahari sandveld from Botswana to Zimbabwe’s Kalahari Desert Valley. During this time, wildebeests gather en masse and build waterways along much of Hwange’s southern edge for easy access to waterholes and pans. Birds flourish in their natural habitat around the Deka Delta Region and pack into large flocks along Tree Island, a water-rich feature at mid-summer when migratory birds come together on their journey south.
The gentle hills near Kennedy Vlei are home to zebra and other predators such as giraffe, which can be spotted grazing throughout the summer months or during extraordinarily busy migration season periods when hundreds convene close by watering holes during dry spells. Also residing in these parts is one of Africa’s biggest Rhino conservation havens that boasts a high concentration of black and white rhinos and buffalo roaming freely nearby.
Apart from its wild inhabitants, visitors may be captivated by charming hides, including The Guinea Fowl Hide, focusing on smaller species like guinea fowls and dung beetles, as well as The Hide, a dedicated camera hide showcasing inspiring wildlife moments from up close. Exciting game drives also provide opportunities for secret night adventures seeking nocturnal species like leopards, which remain hidden until after dark hours have settled in for an unforgettable experience beneath African skies shrouded by stars beyond count!
Matobo National Park
Matobo National Park, one of Zimbabwe’s most important national parks, is located in the Matabeleland South Province of southern Zimbabwe. The UNESCO World Heritage Site contains a unique combination of geological formations, diverse wildlife, and significant historical and cultural sites.
The distinctive landscape of Matobo National Park is characterized by its ancient granite domes and kopjes, or hills. Scattered throughout the park are hundreds of paintings created by the San or Bushmen people between 500 and 1700 years ago. The park also contains many archaeological sites that date back to 700 AD.
Matobo National Park can offer an unforgettable wildlife experience. While predator populations are small due to hunting pressure from nearby communities, large herds of zebra, eland, gemsbok, hartebeest, and wildebeest roam the savannas between rocky outcrops. Leopard sightings have recently increased in response to successful antipoaching efforts; it’s also possible to spot several smaller animals and over 28 species of reptiles recorded in the park. In addition, birdwatchers will be delighted by sightings of emerald spotted wood doves, black eagles, and many other bird species native to Zimbabwe.
A major attraction at Matobo National Park is Rhodes Grave; this is a tribute to Cecil John Rhodes, who founded De Beers diamonds company in South Africa and was once buried here at his request with his loyal servant Tomjulu beside him under a tall granite boulder which has become an iconic symbol for conservationism in Africa today. Visitors can also explore San or Bushmen rock art displays scattered throughout the park – depicting life during ancient times – as well as modern solutions taken up by local communities, such as traditional medicines derived from plants in this region.
Culture and Cuisine
Zimbabwe’s unique and diverse culture and cuisine will leave you with a great travel experience. Many of their traditional foods are made with locally-sourced ingredients and unique cooking techniques, which makes their cuisine all the more enjoyable.
Additionally, Zimbabwe’s culture is shaped by the presence of various tribes and customs, making the country a vibrant place of cultural exchange and exploration. So let’s get into the details and explore the world of Zimbabwe’s culture and cuisine.
Local Cuisine
Local cuisine differs from region to region in Zimbabwe and can encompass anything from classic curries to grilled meats. However, it is predominantly centered around mielie-meal (cornmeal), primarily for sadza – a dish served with vegetables or relishes. Fresh vegetables, sauces, and fruit are also popular in local dishes, though not much seafood or dairy products are consumed due to their limited availability. Street food is also popular, such as Vushungulou – an Angolan kebab made with ground peanuts, codfish, tomatoes, and potatoes. Traditional dishes include biltong (dried meat) and isitshwala (fermented corn meal snack).
Popular fruit juice flavors have grown to include the locally produced marula beer– brewed using the Marula tree’s pineapple-like fruit. Honey beer is becoming increasingly popular too.
In recent years, restaurants have begun to open up, offering more international delicacies such as sushi and steakhouse menus. However, there are more traditional options available should one fancy it. Vegetarianism is quite uncommon in Zimbabwe. However, some venues now offer vegetarian options alongside their more classic menu items like stewed beef with cabbage or pumpkin leaves and beans with peanut butter sauce.
Cultural Attractions
Zimbabwe has a rich cultural heritage featuring many traditional attractions worth exploring. Home to over 16 million people, Zimbabwe’s population comprises diverse groups, including the Shona and Ndebele peoples–the two largest communities in the country.
Visitors can come face-to-face with some of the oldest and most important cultural artifacts in Southern Africa, including ancient rock art sites, royal Victoria Falls, tribal religions, and rituals such as initiation ceremonies and spirit mediations. For those seeking to learn more about Zimbabwe culture, there are museums dedicated entirely to celebrating the history and heritage of this country. Moreover, art galleries showcase modern artwork depicting traditional motifs like birds or animals in natural landscapes.
In addition to its historical sites and artwork, Zimbabwe also boasts vibrant traditional cuisine offering flavors across the globe. While beef stew–a favorite dish from Zimbabwe features prominently on dinner tables throughout the nation–visitors will also find alluring Indian samosas served with chutney and succulent local fruits like papaya and mangoes. Finally, guests should be sure not to miss out on sampling African beer brewed from sorghum or millet during their time in Zimbabwe!
Safety and Security
When traveling to Zimbabwe, visitors’ safety and security should be considered. Crime, terrorism, and civil unrest must always be considered when traveling to any country. In Zimbabwe, certain areas are considered more dangerous than others. Knowing the risks and taking all necessary precautions can help ensure a safe, trouble-free journey. Let’s delve deeper into the safety and security considerations in Zimbabwe:
Health and Vaccinations
You must ensure you have all necessary vaccinations before traveling to Zimbabwe and consult with a physician or healthcare provider when planning any international travel. In addition, it may be wise to consider some travel health products, such as hand sanitizers, insect repellents, DEET lotion and sunscreen, malaria medication, and more.
Be sure you are up-to-date on your routine vaccinations before every trip, including the measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine; diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT) vaccine; varicella (chickenpox) vaccine; polio vaccine; and your yearly flu shot. In addition to immunizations, it is important to check the most recent travel advisories regarding the destination.
- Malaria: Prophylaxis (preventative medication) may be recommended for certain areas of Zimbabwe. Consult with a medical practitioner for specific recommendations about malaria protection during your travels in this country.
- HIV: HIV/AIDs is a serious concern in Zimbabwe, and particular care should be taken when engaging in sexual activities or coming into contact with blood during your stay here. Please take recommended precautions accordingly when abroad in any country.
- Additional Vaccines: In addition to the routine vaccines mentioned above, Typhoid and hepatitis A & B may be recommended for travelers going to Zimbabwe for long periods or those participating in activities that could put them at risk of contracting these diseases, such as eating raw or uncooked foods or consuming contaminated water sources.
Emergency Services
The first question most visitors have about safety in Zimbabwe is whether emergency services are offered in this country. The answer is yes – emergency services, including police, ambulance, and fire services, are available in Zimbabwe. These services protect the public from harm and respond to distress calls as quickly as possible.
The police force falls under the auspices of the government and consists of uniformed officers and plainclothes detectives who investigate more serious matters such as murder, robbery, drug trafficking, etc. Emergency medical response teams operate throughout the country and can be contacted by dialing 999 or 112 from any landline telephone. Firefighting services are provided by a dedicated team of trained personnel attending to fires in residential and commercial areas.
Citizens are encouraged to take responsibility for their safety while they travel within Zimbabwe, particularly during periods when there is political instability or civil unrest. Always avoid large crowds or demonstrations, be vigilant around main roads, ensure possessions can be tracked and monitored if lost or stolen and always report suspicious activity to police or security officials without hesitation if encountered.
Travel Insurance
When traveling to Zimbabwe, it is important to consider all of the risks associated with your trip and to be prepared for an emergency. Therefore, travel insurance is essential to international travel and should be taken out before departure.
Travel insurance can protect against various conditions, including medical costs due to an accident or illness, reimbursement for lost luggage, and coverage in the event of a flight cancellation or delay. It can also protect you if you are involved in an emergency evacuation and need transportation home.
You should also look for a plan that offers more than just financial coverage, such as access to international emergency assistance if necessary, including:
- Medical referrals
- Travel advisory services
- Interpretation services
- Legal aid
- And other emergency assistance like repatriation services if needed.
It is also important to get a plan that covers you in Zimbabwe and any other countries you may visit abroad. You should always check the policy documents carefully as policies will vary depending on the insurer, so read the small details. Hence, you understand what you are exactly covered for.