Travel info Zimbabwe
The name Zimbabwe has been associated with so much negative publicity and crisis but within all the drama in this southern African country the country has a beautiful story to tell and should be Africa’s preferred destination .
How to get to Zimbabwe. What you should know.
Visa
Zimbabwe operates a three tier visa system ,some nationalities qualify for visa-free entry to Zimbabwe ,some nationalities cab acquire visa on arrival while other nationalities must apply for and obtain a visa prior to travel either for leisure or business purposes.
Category A countries whose nationals do not require a pre-applied visa.No action required,you will be be granted easy entry at any border post
Category B countries whose nationals are granted a visa at any port of entry on payment of requisite visa fees
Category C countries whose nationals are required to apply for and obtain a visa prior to travelling . You can do this online at www.evisa.gov.zw or through an agency or Zimbabwe High commission in your home country
All categories need:
Passport valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.
Return tickets to your country or enough money to buy one. Sufficient funds for your stay. Enough blank pages in your passport to fit the required entry visa into Zimbabwe. If you have purchased a single entry upon arrival and then decide to leave Zimbabwe ,even for a few hours you will need to buy another visa to re enter Zimbabwe. In this you should buy a double entry visa upon arrival it works cheaper. Children are charged full visa fees despite age including children and infants
Kaza visa
This is a single tourist visa available at designated entry points into Zambia &Zimbabwe. Tourists may access the single visa fee of US$50 which entitles them to remain in both Zambia and Zimbabwe for up to 30 day and visit Botswana on day trips basis.
www.evisa.gov.zw
Currency
Zimbabwe has a multi currency system but the major currency of use is United States dollar. Zimbabwe also has a cash crisis tourists are advised to carry enough cash for use.For visas no credit cards /debit cards or cheques are accepted
Languages
The official language is English which is used in government and business affairs .Shona and Ndebele are the two main national languages and other ethnic groups speak their languages
Health
Travelers should be up to date with all vaccination before visiting Zimbabwe. Malaria preventatives are always recommended. Some vaccines may be required due to outbreaks. Modern private and public hospitals clinics are available in all major cities and towns. Health insurance is highly recommended
Climate
Zimbabwe has a tropical climate typically hot and humid with seasonal rains.
Dry season April-October with the rest of the country experiencing little rain.
Rainy season November- March
The best time to visit :
Big 5 sightings July-Oct dry season and animals gather around water holes
Walking activities April -November
Bird migration Nov- February but good throughout the year
Price best in November-February
Cultural experience great throughout the year
Most national parks are open all year except Mana pools which closes from December to March
Clothes
Loose cool clothing are recommended all year round winters may be a little cooler than normal. Dress code is relaxed but visitors are advised to avoid clothing which are of camouflage military style, suggestive slogans. Rain wear is useful for November-March.
Long trousers are required for safaris.
White and red clothing is to be avoided on safaris earth and natural colors or khakis highly recommended.
Boots ,comfortable foot wear for safaris
Other info
Local time GMT +2 hours
National dialing code +263
Driving Zimbabweans drive on the left . Visitors require an international driving license and insurance if they wish to drive. Tipping the quality of service dictates your generosity
Safety and security Zimbabwe is considered a very safe country for tourists with harmonious and hospitable people.Personal effects and documents must be kept very secure
Standard electrical supply is 220-240 volts. Most places have 3-pin square pin UK type outlets. Travelers are advised to bring their own adapters
Art and culture
Zimbabwe art includes the Shona stone sculpture while the Matebele are known for their wood carving including teak species. Reed baskets and mats are also unique to the Binga people and all over Zimbabwe. Modern metal sculptures are a new trend and recycling of different material from plastics, rubber and scrap metal. Colourful unique African ethnic dresses and beaded and stone jewelry and organic seeds and wood earrings are a fashion trend.
Zimbabweans love to dance and its featured in religious and spiritual ceremonies for example, rainmaking ceremony in Mathojeni near Bulawayo. The Budja of Mutoko are also known to keep this tradition strictly. There is the Jerusalem, Mushongoyo, Mbakumba dances accomplished with marimba, mbira, hosho, drums, magavhu(leg rattle) music instruments which all tell a different story.