Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Zimbabwe depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for ZimbabweEmergency Numbers
- Police
- 995
- Ambulance
- 994
- Fire
- 993
Currency
- Name
- US Dollar (primary)
- Code
- USD
- Symbol
- $
Zimbabwe uses multiple currencies; USD is the dominant and most useful. South African Rand is also accepted. Local ZiG (Zimbabwe Gold) notes are in circulation. Bring USD in small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20); $50 and $100 notes may not be accepted.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type D, Type G
- Voltage
- 220V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
CAT (UTC+2) — no daylight saving
Best Time to Visit
May–October is the dry season — best for wildlife in Hwange (water concentrates at October waterholes) and the best Victoria Falls spray view is May–July. November–April is wet season; Victoria Falls is at maximum volume February–May (iconic rainbow mist).
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Safari guides | $15–20 USD per day | Essential — guides are expert trackers and depend on tips |
| Camp staff | $5–10 USD per day | — |
| Restaurants | 10–15% | — |
| Victoria Falls activities (rafting guides, etc.) | $5–10 USD | — |
Dress Code
- Casual and practical for safari — neutral khakis and greens
- Modest in towns and cities
- Comfortable walking shoes for Victoria Falls — you will get wet
- Warm layers for early morning game drives
Social Etiquette
- Zimbabweans are exceptionally warm and hospitable despite economic hardships
- Greet everyone — 'Makorokoto' (congratulations/well done) is used as a warm, positive greeting
- Use both hands when receiving or giving — or hold your right forearm with your left hand
- Photography at Victoria Falls is stunning — always ask at smaller communities
- Economic difficulties mean tourist dollars matter greatly — support local businesses
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- LGBTQ+ activity is illegal; prosecutions occur — exercise extreme caution
- Photography of government buildings, airports, military, and the presidential residence is strictly prohibited
- Drug offences carry severe sentences
- Do not criticise President Mnangagwa or the government publicly
- Victoria Falls Bungee and white-water activities are world-class but confirm operator safety standards
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello (Shona) | Mhoro / Makadii? | M-HOH-roh / mah-KAH-dee |
| Thank you (Shona) | Masvita / Ndatenda | mah-SVEE-tah / ndah-TEN-dah |
| Hello (Ndebele) | Sawubona | sah-woo-BOH-nah |
| Thank you (Ndebele) | Ngiyabonga | ngee-yah-BON-gah |
| Welcome | Mauya (Shona) | mah-OO-yah |
Plan Your Trip
Planning a trip to Zimbabwe?
Traveller builds your personalised packing list, checklist, and travel brief in seconds.
Plan this trip with Traveller