Zimbabwe is one of the most politically stable countries in the world. Zimbabweans are known for their hospitality and friendliness towards each other and visitors alike. Although all Zimbabweans are very helpful it is always advisable to be cautious when dealing with strangers.If you need help be on the lookout for anyone wearing a ZIMHOST badge, as they are the best people to ask. Police officers can also be very helpful and are easily identified by their uniforms although some may be plainclothes police. Like everywhere in the world valuables should always be safeguarded or left in the hotel safe box. If you do not know where to obtain a certain service or you are not sure always contact The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, Publicity Association, Police Post or the hotel information desk.

FLIGHTS: Domestic flights run between the main cities.

ROADS: Excellent road network.

DOCUMENTATION: IDP (International Drivers Permit) is required and vehicle identification.

BUS: Services are provided in most parts of the country.

RAIL: Daily between the main cities.

Zimbabwe has three cellular network operators through which roaming facilities are available. If you wish to bring your cellular telephone along it is advisable to check with your local cellular provider as to whether or not they have roaming facilities in Zimbabwe.

Pay as you go cards are also available from the cellular companies in Zimbabwe.

220/240 Volts AC; 50 Hz.

Majority Christianity; Hindu and Muslim minorities. Traditional beliefs in rural areas.

0800 – 1500 Monday to Friday.

0800 – 1130 Saturday.

Zimbabwe uses a multi-currency system. 

Most establishments will accept USD or local bond notes. The official exchange rate between USD and bond notes has been pegged at 1:1. 

International credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops. Some banks have ATM machines where visitors can use their international credit cards. Please check with your bank if you can use your ATM card in Zimbabwe. Travellers Cheques can be cashed at the bank.

Western Union: Available

Piped water in urban areas is considered safe to drink. Normal precautions should be observed with food. All fruit and vegetables should be peeled before consumption.

Yellow fever: Vaccination recommended

Most airlines now include this sum in the price of the ticket; please check if this has been included on your ticket.

Valid passport required by all with at least 6 months from date of entry. Return Ticket Required. Requirements may change at short notice. Contact the nearest Zimbabwe Embassy before departure.

If you are not staying for longer than six months, you enter Zimbabwe with minimum of formalities. All you need is a valid passport, a return ticket to your country (or enough money to buy one) and sufficient funds to cover your stay in Zimbabwe. All visitors require valid passports. A visa can be obtained from the Embassy in Ottawa, any Zimbabwean Embasssy, or from:

All journalists visiting Zimbabwe need to be accredited by the Department of Information and Publicity. Please contact the Zimbabwean Embassy or consulate in or near your country.

Indecent film and publications; ammunition, narcotic drugs etc.

Monday to Friday 0800 to 1700hrs

Saturday 0800 to 1300hrs

A number of smaller shops stay open until later and many suburban supermarkets are open on Sunday morning. In tourist areas most curio shops or markets are open all day and all week. Throughout Zimbabwe many roadside markets sell hand made curios and carvings with a wide variety to choose from.