Zimbabwe is a land of dramatic natural wonders, rich wildlife, and timeless African adventure. Located in the heart of Southern Africa, this captivating destination is renowned for its diverse landscapes, warm hospitality, and remarkable safari experiences. From the mighty Victoria Falls and the wildlife-rich plains of Hwange National Park to the tranquil waters of the Zambezi and Chobe Rivers, Zimbabwe offers an authentic and unforgettable journey through some of Africa’s most spectacular scenery.
One of Zimbabwe’s greatest highlights is its exceptional wildlife and iconic safari destinations. Hwange National Park, the country’s largest game reserve, is home to vast elephant herds, lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, and an incredible diversity of birdlife. Along the legendary Zambezi River and nearby Chobe River region, visitors can experience unforgettable river safaris while watching hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and countless animals gather along the water’s edge. Sunset cruises on these rivers provide some of the most breathtaking safari moments in Africa, with golden skies reflecting across the calm waters as wildlife roams freely along the riverbanks.
Beyond its wildlife, Zimbabwe captivates with its sense of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—discover ancient landscapes and traditional villages, or enjoy thrilling safari activities ranging from walking safaris to canoeing and game drives. With its combination of luxury lodges, extraordinary wildlife encounters, and authentic African charm, Zimbabwe promises a safari experience that is both exciting and deeply memorable.
Swakopmund – Brandberg – Kamanjab – Etosha South – Eros Mountains – Ghanzi – Moremi Game Reserve – Kasane – Victoria Falls
14 Days / 13 Nights
Simon’s Town | KwaZulu Natal South Coast – Victoria Falls – Kasane – Moremi Game Reserve – Deception Valley Private Reserve
19 Days / 18 Nights
Khwai Conservancy – Delta del Okavango – Victoria Falls – Southern Hwange National Park
12 Days / 11 Nights
Banking and Currency
Currency
Zimbabwe currently operates with both the local Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency and the US Dollar (USD). In practice, the US Dollar remains the preferred and most widely accepted currency within the tourism industry, including hotels, safari lodges, restaurants, and tour operators.
Travellers are strongly advised to bring sufficient US Dollar cash for their trip, preferably in small denominations (1, 5, 10 and 20 USD notes), as change is not always available. Clean, undamaged notes are recommended, as older or damaged bills may not be accepted.
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.
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
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, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Zimbabwe’s native cuisine is based on sadza, a cooked porridge made from ground maize which is normally be accompanied by some tasty relish, perhaps made of meat and tomatoes, or dried fish. Safari camps will often prepare sadza if requested, and it is almost always available in small restaurants in the towns.
Camps, hotels and lodges that cater to overseas typically serve a variety international fare, and the quality of food prepared in the most remote bush camps is usually excellent.
If you are driving yourself around and plan to cook, then get most of your supplies in main towns. There are a number of South African shopping chains operating in Zimbabwe which will generally have all that you will need.
Water in the main towns is usually purified. The locals drink it, and are used to the relatively innocuous bugs that it may harbour. If you are in the country for a long time, then it may be worth acclimatising yourself to it. However, if you are in Zimbabwe for just a short period of time, then try to drink only bottled, boiled, or treated water available in towns and from all camps, lodges and hotels.
Climate and Weather
In Zimbabwe, the rains come principally in December, January,February and March; the further north you are, the earlier the precipitation arrives and the later it leaves. Zimbabwe’s higher eastern areas usually receive more rainfall than the lower-lying western ones.
By April and May most of the rain is gone, leaving a verdant setting, which is starting to dry out. Especially in more southerly and higher locations, the night-time temperatures start to drop.
The nights in June, July and August become much cooler, so don’t forget to bring some warmer clothes, in case you want to spend an evening outside; the days are still clear and warm. For Zimbabwe, this is the start of the ‘peak season’– days are often cloudless and game sightings continually increase.
Into September and October the temperatures rise once again: Zimbabwe’s lower-lying rift valley – Mana Pools – can get very hot in October. During this time, you’ll see some fantastic game, as the Zimbabwe’s wildlife concentrates around the limited water sources.
November is unpredictable; it can be hot and dry, it can also see the season’s first rainfalls – and in this respect it’s a very interesting month, as on successive days, you can see both weather patterns.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
When in Zimbabwe the cardinal rule is to wear casual, comfortable clothes during the day as temperatures can get very hot. It is advisable to wear light loose-fitting clothing, such as cotton or linen, as they are cool and easy to wash. Warmer clothes are advised for the evenings and rainwear for the wet season.
A brimmed hat and sunglasses are a good idea year-round. Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers will also guard against the scorching sun rays. It is recommended you wear light shoes, especially if your itinerary entails a lot of walking.
For safaris, please remember to wear appropriate clothing and shoes. Earth colour clothes, such as browns, greens and tans are advisable.
Electricity and Plug Standards
Electrical sockets in the Republic of Zimbabwe are Type G (BS-1363) and Type C (CEE 7/16 Europlug) and Type D (BS- 546). If your appliance’s plug doesn’t match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance’s plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it’s crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for all types.
Electrical sockets usually supply electricity at 230 volts AC / 50 Hz frequency. If you’re plugging in an appliance that was built for 230 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliance isn’t compatible with 230 volts, a voltage converter will be necessary.