Zimbabwe travel information
Weather & climate
The weather in Zimbabwe is generally pleasant throughout the year – warm to hot days, and cool to warm nights. During our winter months however (May to September), it can get really cold at night and in the early morning, particularly when on safari, so we would like to suggest that you pack accordingly. Generally, the days are bright and sunny and the nights clear and cool. November to April are the summer months (which is also the rainy season) while winter is from May to August (which usually brings dry weather). September and October are very hot and very dry. The winter months from May to August inclusive can bring freezing temperatures (below 0°C sometimes) in the early morning and evenings
Passports & visas
You need a current passport with 6 months validity from the date you return and two blank pages, a return air ticket and a tourist visa. Visas are required and available on arrival for USD30 per person. If you intend to visit both Zimbabwe and Zambia please request the KAZA Visa, which allows you entry into both countries, for USD50 per person.
Health
Consult your GP or a travel doctor at least 6 weeks before you travel. You may be required or recommended to get vaccinations for Measles, Typhoid and Hepatitis A & B, among others. Malaria is present in Zimbabwe so malaria prophylactics are recommended.
Getting there
Zimbabwe has two international airports, Victoria Falls and Harare. There are domestic airports and airfields that connect major towns and safari destinations. Depending on your arrival time, you may require a night in Victoria Falls.
Getting around
Most of our itineraries involve private road transfers in 4×4 vehicles or light aircraft flights between place. The Elephant Express railway is a great way to transfer between Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park. When transferring by road keep in mind that road conditions can slow you down.
Currency & language
US dollars are the preferred currency for all tourism related services in Zimbabwe, and our recommended currency. The local currency is the Zimbabwe Dollar, however it has only recently become legal tender again. Access to cash is limited in Zimbabwe, so ensure to organise your US dollars prior to arrival. Zimbabwe is a cash society, so the use of credit cards is very limited. Many accommodations accept credit cards for hotel expenses only. Visa and Mastercard are usually accepted, Amex is not. English is the official language of Zimbabwe. Other widely spoken languages are Shona and Sindebele, which also have various dialects and other minority languages.
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