Fast facts
About Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is a landlocked country on a high plateau in southern Africa, nestled between the Zambezi and Limpopo rivers. It is bordered by South Africa to the south, Botswana to the southwest, Zambia to the northwest, Mozambique to the east and north, and Namibia's Caprivi Strip. English is the official business language, Shona is the most widely spoken native tongue and Ndebele is spoken mainly in the west. Roughly two-thirds of the population are Shona, 15% Ndebele, with a small minority of white and other ethnicities. Ours is a land of diverse beauty — semi-desert lowlands, mist-covered highlands, ancient stone cities and one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
Climate
Zimbabwe is like a captivating melody that stays with you long after it is heard. The climate splits into three zones: the expansive central plateau enjoys a mild temperate climate; lower regions like the Zambezi Valley are hotter and more arid; and the Eastern Highlands are refreshingly cool with year-round rainfall. Life-giving summer rains fall between November and April, followed by a crisp winter from May to July.
Our people & culture
Wherever you go you will be surrounded by warm, hospitable people — always wearing a smile and willing to lend a helping hand. Alongside that welcome runs a proud, layered heritage: hundreds-year-old rock art created by long-forgotten San artists, monuments to great medieval kingdoms, and a living culture of music, craft and ceremony.
A world of wonders
A World Heritage Site and one of the natural Wonders of the World — the largest curtain of falling water on earth at 1,708m wide and 108m at its deepest. Often called Africa's adrenaline capital, with white-water rafting, the famous bungee and safari in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.
The largest stone structure in Africa outside Egypt, built between 1100 and 1450 AD across almost 800 hectares. Its curving mortarless granite walls — divided into the Hill Complex, Great Enclosure and Valley Monument — testify to the ingenuity of a great medieval kingdom.
Home to the renowned Big Seven: lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, leopard, hippopotamus and crocodile. National Parks dotted across the country provide platforms near key waterholes for close-range game viewing.
Zimbabwe's Garden of Eden — deep valleys, granite peaks, trout rivers and pine-clad slopes. Mt Nyangani, the country's highest peak, rises here. Play golf, ride a pony through the forests or simply watch the morning mist lift.
One of the largest man-made reservoirs in the world — 280km long and 40km at its widest — home to 40 fish species, crocodiles, hippos and a paradise of birdlife along the Zambezi River.
Rock art galleries older than most nations, colonial-era towns, liberation-war memorials and living traditions that stretch from Great Zimbabwe to today's craft markets.
Frequently asked questions.
Most international visitors require a visa. Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a visa on arrival at the airport or land border, or you may need to apply for an e-Visa online in advance. Check the latest requirements on the official Zimbabwe eVisa website (evisa.gov.zw) before your trip.
Yes — Zimbabwe is generally considered a safe destination. Violent crime against visitors is rare, particularly in well-managed tourist areas like Victoria Falls and the national parks. As with any travel, keep valuables secure, avoid walking in city centres at night, and stay aware of your surroundings.
The United States Dollar (USD) is the functional currency for most tourist transactions, alongside the local Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). Bring clean, crisp USD notes in small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20). Additional USD cash is available from ATMs and bureaux de change via Visa and Mastercard.
Don't rely on cards alone. Major hotels, lodges and higher-end restaurants in cities and tourist hubs accept them, but many independent operators, smaller businesses and rural areas are cash-only. Always carry a cash cushion.
The dry season (April–October) is best for safari — wildlife concentrates around waterholes and is easy to spot. To see Victoria Falls at its most powerful, come after the summer rains, February–May.
Malaria risk exists in many areas, particularly the Zambezi Valley and around Victoria Falls. Consult a travel health professional 6–8 weeks before departure about prophylaxis. Routine vaccinations (Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus) are recommended. A Yellow Fever certificate is required only if arriving from a risk country.
Drink bottled, purified or boiled water to avoid an upset stomach. Stick to reputable brands of bottled water and check that the seal is unbroken.
Light, neutral-coloured clothing (avoid bright whites — they show dust quickly). Bring layers: early-morning and evening game drives can be chilly even in the dry season. A warm fleece, hat, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes and binoculars are essential. Camouflage patterns are strictly prohibited in Zimbabwe.
Yes — tipping is welcomed and appreciated. There is no fixed amount, but 10–15% in restaurants and general hospitality is a polite gesture. Cash tips are best.
For long distances between Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls, domestic flights are the most efficient. For national parks, hire a 4x4 or book through a local tour operator — remote road conditions can be challenging. Avoid driving after dark due to poor lighting and wildlife on the roads.
Yes, foreign-registered vehicles are welcome. You'll need a Temporary Import Permit (TIP) at the border — save time by applying for an e-TIP online via the ZIMRA website before arrival.
Original vehicle registration (logbook), a signed and stamped Letter of Authority from the owner/bank if you are not the owner (e.g. rental or company car), and a valid driver's licence. Local licences in English are accepted; otherwise an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
On entry expect: Road Access Fee ≈ USD 10 · Carbon Tax ≈ USD 10 (valid 30 days) · Third-Party Insurance ≈ USD 30 (unless you hold a valid COMESA Yellow Card) · Bridge/Toll fees vary by port (Beitbridge ≈ USD 9).
Local law requires every vehicle to carry two red reflective triangles, a serviced and accessible fire extinguisher, and reflective tape (white on the front bumper, red on the rear).