Zimbabwe is the ideal destination for travellers who want to do more than simply view wildlife from a safari vehicle. The country's many game parks offer a variety of game viewing experiences, from day and night game drives in open vehicles to boat cruises, walking safaris, canoeing and houseboats. Find out what is available in the areas that you intend to visit.

Tourism is an important source of revenue in Zimbabwe and standards at hotels and restaurants in the more popular tourist destinations are stringently maintained. Most of the country's popular tourist spots are situated far away from its main cities in secluded locations. One of Zimbabwe's top tourist attractions, Victoria Falls is geared almost exclusively towards tourism and remains a popular destination.

Climate

• Summer: October - April     30˚C/86˚F    14˚C/58˚F
• Winter: May - September    20˚C/68˚F    5˚C/41˚F
• Rainfall: November - March

Currency & Banking

• US dollars are widely accepted; however, notes dated before 2003 are no longer accepted. Also, high denomination notes may not be accepted.
• Banking hours at most commercial banks are Monday to Friday from 09h00 to 15h30 and on Saturday from 08h00 to 11h00
• ATMs are found throughout Zimbabwe’s major city centres and shopping complexes.
• The currency is the Zimbabwean Dollar, where ZWD1 is made up of 100 cents (although in practice cents are not used). Please check with your hotel for daily exchange rates. Foreign currencies such as the USD are widely accepted.
• The use of credit cards is not recommended in Zimbabwe. Visa and MasterCard are accepted by most restaurants, shops and hotels. Diners Club and American Express are sometimes not accepted. Proof of identity may be requested, so be sure to carry a passport or some form of photo identification at all times. Credit cards are not accepted at petrol stations.

Safety

• It is advised you check with your tour operator or hotel concierge - they will know if there are any potentially unsafe areas along your travel route.
• It is wise to avoid deserted areas, particularly at night, and if you are on a self-drive adventure then please ensure your car is locked at all times - park in well-lit, busy areas.
• Dress-down (i.e. don’t wear excessive jewellery) when exploring Africa’s diverse cities. Concealed travel wallets are recommended.
• Stopping for hitch hikers is not recommended.

Photography

Please be sensitive when photographing people. Zimbabweans are renowned for being friendly; however it is courteous to ask permission before snapping away. It is illegal to take photographs of public buildings, government institutions or military personnel.

Passport & Visa requirements

Guests visiting Zimbabwe must be in possession of a passport that is valid for at least six months passport from the date of travel and should have two blank pages available in their passport. Visitors who intend travelling to Zimbabwe’s neighbouring countries and back are advised to apply for multiple entry visas.