Located in Southern Africa,Zimbabwe is a nation coming into its own as a travel destination. The Zambezi River forms the natural boundary with Zambia, and when in full flood – usually between February and April – enormous Victoria Falls forms the world's largest curtain of falling water. After you take in the cascade views, head inland to the remarkable Matobo National Park, where the granite landscape features massive balanced boulders that seem to defy gravity.
Visa requirements may change, so for the most up-to-date information we recommend using our Entry Requirements tool. Alternatively, check the Zimbabwean embassy website in your country of departure.
Recommended vaccinations for Zimbabwe include hepatitis a, hepatitis b, tetanus, polio, typhoid, meningococcal meningitis, cholera, and rabies if you’re in rural areas. You’re also required to have a yellow fever vaccination in order to enter the country. You should also be aware that there is a risk of Malaria here — consult your doctor before travelling to see whether you need antimalarials.
However, as advice can often change, you can check out our Entry Requirements tool for the most up-to-date details on vaccination requirements.
The weather in Zimbabwe is temperate to subtropical, and there are distinct wet and dry seasons here — running from mid-November to March and April to mid-November respectively. Temperatures tend to range from around 15 to 27°C (59 to 80.6°F), though during the cooler months of mid-May to mid-August, it can get even colder. Pack layers!
The heaviest rainfall tends to occur in the months of December to March, when it can average around 160mm (6.30 inches) per month. Be warned that even though you’re in Southern Africa, the nights can get cold and even almost freezing at altitude. Be prepared!
While there’s no bad time to visit Zimbabwe, the best time is generally during the dry season, which runs from April to October. This period offers pleasant weather, fewer mosquitoes, and great wildlife viewing opportunities as animals gather around water sources. June to August are cooler, so they’re ideal if you’re looking to do outdoor activities like hiking.
Tipping isn’t expected in Zimbabwe, though it is very much appreciated and is an important source of income for those within the tourism industry. The usual ballpark figure is around 10% for good service in restaurants and other hospitality venues. If the service is exceptional, then go for 15-20% instead.
You can use this guideline for staff on your tour if you'd like to show appreciation:
Internet access in Zimbabwe has been steadily improving in recent years, and you’ll find fairly good internet in larger towns and cities like Harare and Bulawayo. However, in rural areas like game parks, expect it to be much slower and less reliable.
Yes — there are plenty of ATMs in Zimbabwe, particularly within towns and cities and tourist areas too. Most tend to accept Visa more than Mastercard, so plan accordingly, and check with your bank to find out whether you’ll be charged withdrawal fees. If you’re heading out into rural areas like game reserves, it’s a good idea to carry cash with you in case you can’t locate an ATM.
In a word — no, Zimbabwe isn’t particularly LGBTQ+-friendly, and same-sex relations are technically illegal here. However, be discreet and you should run into no problems.
As part of their commitment, all CEOs receive LGBTQ+ inclusion training so every traveller feels respected and welcomed on all of our tours. We commit to making our tours a safe and inclusive place for people to express their authentic selves without judgement, free from any discriminatory language or harassment.
While travelling with G Adventures, all travellers must treat each other with dignity and respect to create an environment that is positive, safe, and where everyone feels welcome. You can find out more via our LGBTQ+ travel page.
There are three main languages spoken in Zimbabwe — Shona, Ndebele, and English. Besides these, there are also a whole range of indigenous languages spoken here, including Xhosa, Tonga, and Ndau.
No, in a word, the tap water here isn’t safe to drink. We’d recommend only drinking bottled water wherever you are within the country.
Please note however that all drinks provided on our tours are safe to drink (including drinks with ice), as well as the water in most hotels and restaurants visited on tour. If in doubt, please ask your CEO for further info.
Zimbabwe is generally safe, and most visits here are trouble-free. That being said, petty crime and violent crime does exist here, and you should be careful at night, particularly in towns and cities. Take a taxi. There’s also a risk of malaria, as well as wild animals in areas surrounding Victoria Falls.
G Adventures takes all reasonable measures to ensure your safety and enjoyment while travelling with us. All of the included activities are properly vetted and regularly checked by us, and we take great care in choosing the right transportation, stays throughout your trip, and guides to lead your tour. However, there are always inherent risks when travelling — you can find out more via our travel safety page.
