Zimbabwe travel guide
Zimbabwe Tourism | Zimbabwe Guide
You're Going to Love Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is the perfect country to visit for those who want to tick three major items off their bucket list: observe majestic animals in the wild, visit archaeological heritage sites, and see breathtaking natural wonders.
What to do in Zimbabwe
1. Observe Wildlife at a National Park
Known for its diversity of animals wandering in the wild, Zimbabwe is home to several national parks where you can truly experience nature. Head to Hwange National Park for the big cats or Matobo National Park for the rhinos.
2. Admire Grand Victoria Falls
A true force of nature, the furiously rapid waters of the Victoria Falls are one of Zimbabwe's most famous natural landmarks among tourists.
3. Get Closer to Local Art
Visit the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Harare to attend art shows that introduce visitors to both traditional and contemporary local artists.
4. Explore Bulawayo
The second largest city in the country, Bulawayo is a treat for enthusiasts of 19th-century colonial architecture.
5. Take a Trip to the Chinhoyi Caves
A destination well-known to experienced scuba divers, the Chinhoyi Caves also makes up for a good offbeat attraction for those who are looking for something unique in Zimbabwe.
When to visit Zimbabwe
The top months to visit Zimbabwe are April (for the Harare HIFA cultural event), and May and August for a chance to visit the Victoria Falls at their prime.
This time of year has the best weather, but it's not the best time to observe wildlife. For the Big Five, visit Zimbabwe between July and September.
How to Get to Zimbabwe
Entry requirements
Nationals from almost all countries need a visa to enter Zimbabwe. It will be issued on arrival at your entry point and be valid for up to 30 days.
Plane
There are two main airports serving Zimbabwe: Harare International Airport and Victoria Falls Airport.
Most international flights land in Harare. Victoria Falls is served mostly by flights from South Africa and Namibia.
Car
Entering Zimbabwe by car from the neighboring countries is fairly easy. Keep in mind that the same visa rules apply as if entering by plane.
The simplest land border crossings to Zimbabwe are in Francistown (Botswana), Beira (Mozambique), Johannesburg (South Africa), and Victoria Falls (Zambia).
Bus
There are several bus connections between Zimbabwe and border countries, operated by different companies. You can take an international long-distance bus to Zimbabwe from Francistown (Botswana), Blantyre (Malawi), and Lusaka (Zambia).
Popular airlines serving Zimbabwe
Where to stay in Zimbabwe
Larger cities have a good variety of hostels, guesthouses, and business hotels. National parks also offer accommodation, usually in the high-end luxury range.
Where to stay in popular areas of Zimbabwe
Most booked hotels in Zimbabwe
How to Get Around Zimbabwe
Public Transportation
The only means of public transportation available within cities in Zimbabwe are taxis. They're almost always metered and you can ask your hotel to book one for you.
Trains
There are regular train services, mostly running at night, connecting Harare, Victoria Falls, Bulawayo, and Mutare.
Bus
Bravo and Pathfinder are two local companies operating regular bus connections between the larger cities and towns.
Check the timetables carefully since luxury buses and local buses might depart for the same destination at the same time. The local buses (known as "chicken buses") are cheaper but less comfortable and with no extra amenities.
Car
You can drive around Zimbabwe for up to 90 days with your local driver's license, as long as it's in English. For other cases, get an International Driving Permit.
Most car rental companies don't rent vehicles to drivers over 65. Minimum age varies between 23 and 25 years old.
Plane
There are domestic flights connecting Harare to Victoria Falls and Bulawayo, most of them operated by local airline Air Zimbabwe.
The Cost of Living in Zimbabwe
In 2019, Zimbabwe reinstated its national currency, the Zimbabwe Dollar, so check the latest currency exchanges rates before arrival. Check with your hotel and other service providers which payment mode they prefer at the time of your trip. Prices may still be listed in US Dollars in some places. On average, consumer prices are lower than in English-speaking countries like the USA, Canada, and the UK, but so is the local purchasing power.