Last update: 22 Oct 2026
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Zimbabwe Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Zimbabwe – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type D , Type G
Type D:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) (ZWG) £1 ≈ ZWG 35.66 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common in Zimbabwe, especially in larger cities. However, cash is still widely used, and credit card acceptance may be limited outside urban areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is appreciated in Zimbabwe but not mandatory. In restaurants, a 10% tip is standard. Small tips are also welcomed in taxis and for hotel services. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in Zimbabwe, but alcohol is typically consumed in licensed venues or private spaces. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces but is allowed in designated outdoor smoking areas. |
| Independence Day (18 April) |
Celebrates Zimbabwe’s independence from Britain |
|---|---|
| Christmas (25 December) |
Celebrated with family gatherings and festive meals |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 999 (General), 995 (Police), 994 (Ambulance), 993 (Fire) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber |
| Other: | Zimbabwe is known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and landmarks such as Victoria Falls. It offers a variety of outdoor and adventure experiences. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls: water volume highest March to May with heavy spray hiding views, lowest October to December
Mana Pools and many remote bush camps close or are inaccessible during the rains, roughly November to April
Swimming at Devil's Pool on the Falls is possible only at low water, roughly September to December
Don't miss
- 💦 Admire Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side’s best viewpoints
- 🦓 Go on a safari through Hwange National Park
- 🏰 Visit the ancient stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe
- 🐘 Watch elephants gather at a watering hole in Mana Pools
- ⛵ Cruise Lake Kariba at sunset with local guides
- 🌺 Stroll through Harare’s botanical gardens and craft markets
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe's appeal lies in its remarkable diversity of wildlife and landscapes. The country boasts some of Africa's most impressive safari experiences, particularly in Hwange National Park, home to one of the continent's largest elephant populations. Beyond the famous wildlife, you'll find the UNESCO World Heritage site of Great Zimbabwe, the adrenaline-pumping activities at Victoria Falls (one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World) and the chance to experience authentic cultural encounters with warm and resilient local communities. However, travelers should be prepared for certain challenges. The country has faced economic difficulties in recent years, which can sometimes result in fuel shortages and limited access to cash. While major tourist areas have good infrastructure, facilities in more remote regions can be basic. The climate varies dramatically across regions, with the Lowveld experiencing temperatures that can spike as high as 40°C, while the Highveld enjoys more moderate temperatures due to its higher elevation.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Victoria Falls
Where the mighty Zambezi River plunges into a spectacular gorge, creating one of Africa's most iconic natural wonders. The twin bridges span the chasm, offering breathtaking views of the mist and roaring waters below. -
2
Hwange National Park
This vast Zimbabwean sanctuary borders Botswana, offering expansive savannahs teeming with elephants and lions. Its seasonal rivers attract diverse wildlife, while rugged landscapes provide dramatic backdrops for unforgettable safari experiences under the African sky.
🏯Places worth seeing
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Harare International Festival of the Arts
-
Victoria Falls Carnival
-
Zimbabwe International Film Festival
-
Bulawayo Arts Festival
-
Shoko Festival
-
Zimbabwe International Book Fair
-
Jikinya Traditional Dance Festival
-
Chimanimani Arts Festival
-
Harare Jazz Festival
-
Zimbabwe Fashion Week
Knowledge before you go
- Malaria risk high; take prophylaxis and use repellent.
- Avoid driving at night; roads have potholes, animals and reckless drivers everywhere.
- Stay vigilant against petty theft in Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls tourist spots.
- Book safaris with reputable operators; follow guides closely during wildlife viewing to stay safe.
How to travel to Zimbabwe
Most international visitors arrive in Zimbabwe through Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare or Victoria Falls International Airport. Several international airlines connect Zimbabwe to major African hubs like Johannesburg, Addis Ababa and Nairobi, with onward connections worldwide. Land entry is possible from neighboring countries like South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Mozambique. Visitors typically need a visa to enter Zimbabwe, which can be obtained on arrival for many nationalities, though it's advisable to check current requirements before traveling.
Access summary
- Victoria Falls: Fly to VFA from JNB, CPT, ADD.
- Hwange NP: Fly to HRE/VFA, then charter/road.
- Mana Pools: Fly to Kariba from HRE/VFA, charter.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe offers accommodations ranging from luxury safari lodges to mid-range hotels and budget guesthouses. In wildlife areas like Hwange and Mana Pools, safari lodges and tented camps provide comfortable bases for game viewing, often with guided activities included. Cities like Harare and Bulawayo feature international hotel chains alongside local options. Victoria Falls has the highest concentration of luxury accommodations. Budget travelers can find affordable guesthouses in most towns. During peak safari season (July-October), accommodations in popular wildlife areas should be booked well in advance.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Zimbabwe
Getting around Zimbabwe typically requires a combination of transportation methods. In major cities like Harare and Bulawayo, local buses and taxis are available for urban travel. For intercity journeys, long-distance buses connect major destinations, though comfort levels vary. For wildlife areas and national parks, organized safari tours with 4WD vehicles are the standard option, as many wildlife areas require specialized transportation. Domestic flights connect major cities and tourist destinations, saving time over sometimes challenging road journeys.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Zimbabwe are around 48% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to ZWG) is 42% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is a lot cheaper compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Zimbabwe is generally safe for tourists in established areas. Exercise normal precautions and avoid isolated areas after dark. The main safety concerns are related to wildlife encounters and occasional political demonstrations in urban centers rather than conventional crime.
Health & Medical
Medical facilities are limited outside major cities. Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential. Malaria is present in many regions, particularly in the Zambezi Valley, so antimalarial medication and mosquito precautions are necessary.
Accessibility
Accessibility is challenging throughout Zimbabwe. Even major cities have limited infrastructure for mobility-impaired travelers, while wildlife areas and natural attractions present significant difficulties with rough terrain and few accommodations for wheelchair users.
Tap water
Tap water is generally not safe for drinking throughout Zimbabwe. Rely on bottled water with sealed caps, which is widely available in tourist areas but may be limited in remote regions. Always carry water when traveling between destinations.
Packing recommendations for Zimbabwe
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
👕
Light, breathable clothing
for safaris
🧥
Waterproof jacket
if visiting November–March
👀
Binoculars
for wildlife viewing
🕶️
Sunglasses
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
🪰
Insect repellent
👛
Cash in small denominations
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
👒
Sun hat
hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sun cream
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
🧥
Fleece mid-layer
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
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