Zimbabwe Travel Guide
Country Landlocked country known for diverse wildlife and landscapes.
Victoria Falls thunders with a force that draws travelers to Zimbabwe, where the Zambezi River crashes into the gorge below. Visitors often embark on safaris in Hwange National Park, home to elephants and lions. Harare’s markets hum with life, offering a taste of local culture.
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Why Visit Zimbabwe #
See Victoria Falls (locally Mosi-oa-Tunya) from viewpoints on the Zimbabwe side for close-up spray and the classic vistas of the Zambezi plunging through the gorge. Walk the Knife-Edge Bridge and consider a helicopter flip for a fuller sense of scale. Visit in different seasons if you can-the fall and low-water views feel very different.
Explore the ruins at Great Zimbabwe near Masvingo-the largest ancient stone settlement in sub-Saharan Africa-where imposing stone enclosures and towers date to the medieval period. The site rewards quiet contemplation more than quick photos; take the museum tour to understand trade links and the site’s role in regional history. Morning light is best for photos.
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest reserve and is famous for large elephant herds and easily accessible game-viewing waterholes. Stay at a lodge or camp near permanent pans to watch animals arrive at dusk and dawn. If close encounters with big herds are a priority, Hwange frequently delivers.
Drive from Bulawayo to the Matobo Hills for granite kopjes, San rock art and a rhino sanctuary that emphasizes conservation. The landscape is excellent for short hikes and guided walks among balancing rocks and ancient paintings. Guides explain both the cultural histories and the preservation work underway for black and white rhinos.
Track the modern Shona stone-sculpture movement in Harare and smaller studios where artists carve serpentine and other local stone into expressive pieces. Galleries and artist cooperatives sell works and often allow studio visits. If you appreciate contemporary African art, arranging a meeting with a sculptor makes purchases more meaningful.
Who's Zimbabwe For?
Victoria Falls sunsets, luxury riverside lodges and private safari drives in Hwange create a romantic safari honeymoon: river cruises and helicopter flights add memorable splurges for two.
Family-friendly safari lodges around Hwange and guided activities at Victoria Falls suit older kids. Choose accommodations with family programs and consider malaria precautions for younger children.
A solid backpacker circuit includes Victoria Falls, Harare hostels and overland campsites. Budget travelers can find communal camps and cheap transfers, especially in peak dry-season safari circuits.
Harare’s internet is improving but inconsistent; coworking is limited. Outside cities bandwidth and power stability drop significantly, so remote work is best based in Harare or Victoria Falls.
Local staples like sadza with stews and nyama choma are hearty but not haute cuisine. Urban areas offer inventive takes, yet Zimbabwe isn’t a global culinary capital.
Adrenaline options abound: white-water rafting, bungee jumping and gorge swings at Victoria Falls, plus walking safaris and remote bush expeditions for thrill-seekers.
Victoria Falls has lively tourist bars and nightlife; Harare offers live music scenes. Expect social, traveler-oriented evenings rather than nonstop metropolitan clubbing.
Hwange, Mana Pools and other reserves deliver outstanding wildlife viewing, walking safaris and canoe-based game experiences-one of Africa’s strongest destinations for immersive nature encounters.
Best Places to Visit in Zimbabwe
All Cities ›
Where to Go in Zimbabwe #
Victoria Falls & Zambezi
The mighty Falls and the upper Zambezi form the country’s biggest draw, a compact area where adrenaline sports and scenic relaxation meet. Expect boat cruises, gorge walks and abundant tourist infrastructure. This is the must-see for first-time visitors and the best place to combine wildlife viewing with outdoor adventure.
Top Spots
- Victoria Falls - One of the world’s most dramatic waterfalls and adventure activities.
- Livingstone - Base for river safaris and cultural tours.
Hwange & Western Parks
Savannah plains and large national parks make the west Zimbabwe’s safari heartland. Wildlife viewing here is prime for elephant sightings, robust lodge options and long game drives. The region is less manicured than some private reserves, offering big-sky landscapes and traditional safari rhythms.
Top Spots
- Hwange National Park - Large elephant herds and classic safari circuits.
- Deka - Safari camps and game drives (camp gateway).
Great Zimbabwe & Masvingo
Historic stone ruins anchor this southern region, offering archaeology, quiet country roads and a sense of deep time. Great Zimbabwe’s ruined city is the cultural centerpiece, while surrounding farmlands and low hills make for peaceful drives and encounters with rural life. Expect fewer tourists and low-key accommodation.
Top Spots
- Great Zimbabwe - Ancient stone ruins and national heritage.
- Masvingo - Gateway town with local markets.
Eastern Highlands
Cooler, misty mountains define Zimbabwe’s eastern edge - ideal for hiking, trout streams and scenic road trips. Terraced farms, waterfalls and viewpoints reward active travelers who enjoy walking and simple country lodges. This is the country’s most temperate and green region, popular in summer months.
Top Spots
- Mutare - Market town and access to mountain walks.
- Nyanga - Rolling hills, waterfalls and hiking trails.
Matabeleland & Bulawayo
Matabeleland blends colonial-era towns, granite landscapes and distinctive cultural history. Bulawayo is the transportation and cultural hub, while Matobo Hills offers dramatic rock formations and rock art sites. The region suits history buffs, hikers and anyone wanting less-traveled national parks and strong local identity.
Top Spots
- Bulawayo - Laid-back museums, colonial architecture and markets.
- Matobo Hills - Granite kopjes and ancient rock art.
Top Things to Do in Zimbabwe
All Attractions ›
Planning Your Trip to Zimbabwe #
1 Week Zimbabwe Itinerary
See Victoria Falls activities, Zambezi river cruise, a Hwange safari and a visit to the ancient Great Zimbabwe ruins-wildlife, waterfalls and heritage in one short trip.
Show itinerary- Day 1 - Arrive Victoria Falls town; sunset cruise on Zambezi River.
- Day 2 - Full day at Victoria Falls National Park viewpoints.
- Day 3 - Half-day adventure: helicopter flight or white-water rafting option.
- Day 4 - Transfer to Hwange National Park for afternoon game drive.
- Day 5 - Full-day safari in Hwange with morning and evening drives.
- Day 6 - Return toward Bulawayo; visit local markets en route.
- Day 7 - Day trip to Great Zimbabwe ruins near Masvingo and depart.
2 Weeks Zimbabwe Itinerary
Two weeks in Zimbabwe mixes Victoria Falls excitement, extended Hwange safaris, Matobo rock art near Bulawayo, Great Zimbabwe ruins, and optional eastern lowveld lodge experiences.
Show itinerary- Day 1-3 - Victoria Falls: waterfalls, local markets and adventure activities.
- Day 4-6 - Hwange multi-day safari for elephant and large game sightings.
- Day 7-9 - Drive to Bulawayo; explore Matobo National Park and rock art.
- Day 10-11 - Great Zimbabwe ruins and Masvingo cultural sites.
- Day 12-14 - Eastern lowveld or Gonarezhou day trips and lodge stays.
3-4 Weeks Zimbabwe Itinerary
Three to four weeks in Zimbabwe: extended Victoria Falls, Hwange safaris, Matobo rock art, Great Zimbabwe, Lake Kariba and optional Mana Pools or Gonarezhou walking safaris.
Show itinerary- Day 1-4 - Extended Victoria Falls time with river cruises and local tours.
- Day 5-10 - Multi-day Hwange safari with morning and evening game drives.
- Day 11-14 - Bulawayo and Matobo National Park cultural and rock art visits.
- Day 15-18 - Great Zimbabwe and surrounding Masvingo archaeological exploration.
- Day 19-22 - Lake Kariba boating, fishing or relaxation at lakeside lodges.
- Day 23-28 - Optional Mana Pools or Gonarezhou guided walking safaris and return.
Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe #
Zimbabwe has a subtropical climate with a distinct wet season (roughly November-March) and a dry season (roughly April-October). Lowveld areas are hot in summer, while the highveld and highlands are cooler, especially at night during the dry winter months.
January
January is in the rainy (summer) season with warm, humid days and frequent thunderstorms, especially in the lowveld. Rivers and waterfalls are full and landscapes are lush, but some rural tracks may be difficult to pass. This is outside the prime wildlife-viewing window due to thicker vegetation.
Events
No major festivals this month.
February
February continues the hot, wet conditions with heavy, often daily rainfall in many regions. Travel plans should allow flexibility for flooding or closed roads. Birding and river scenery can be excellent, but large-game viewing is less reliable.
Events
No major festivals this month.
March
March remains within the wet season with frequent storms and high humidity; visibility for game viewing is reduced by thick vegetation. Coastal areas and the Zambezi basin see substantial rainfall. Tourist numbers are low and many lodges offer off-season rates.
Events
No major festivals this month.
April
April is a transitional month as the rains taper off; conditions become more settled and roads begin to dry. Many areas become accessible again, and the landscape remains green. Wildlife viewing starts to improve as animals are easier to spot along receding water sources.
Events
- Independence Day - Zimbabwean Independence Day on April 18 is a national public holiday with official ceremonies.
May
May marks the start of the dry season with cooler mornings and sunny days - ideal for game drives and walking safaris. Rivers lower and animals congregate around permanent water sources, improving viewing. This is a popular period for wildlife-oriented tourism.
Events
No major festivals this month.
June
June brings clear skies, low humidity and cool to chilly mornings, especially in higher elevations. Daytime temperatures are comfortable for outdoor activities. Wildlife viewing is strong and camps tend to be busy; book well in advance for prime reserves.
Events
No major festivals this month.
July
July can have cold nights and early mornings but pleasant days - a peak time for safari travel. Water sources are limited, concentrating animals and making sightings reliable. This is one of the busiest months for tourism, particularly in Hwange and Mana Pools areas.
Events
No major festivals this month.
August
August remains dry and sunny with warming days; river levels at Victoria Falls can be lower late in the dry season but weather is excellent for activities. Wildlife viewing continues to be excellent with animals gathered at waterholes. Expect peak-season prices and busy lodges in popular safari areas.
Events
- Victoria Falls Marathon - The Victoria Falls Marathon is traditionally held in August and attracts international and regional runners (dates vary by year).
September
September is dry and increasingly warm; daytime temperatures climb while nights stay cool. Vegetation is still sparse, which aids visibility for wildlife viewing. This month remains a top choice for safari travelers and for activities around Victoria Falls.
Events
- Victoria Falls Carnival - The Victoria Falls Carnival is typically staged around late September and features music and cultural programming (dates vary).
October
October is a transitional month that can be hot and dusty as the dry season ends; the first rains sometimes occur late in the month. Water sources start to shrink, concentrating wildlife around remaining water. Temperatures rise markedly, especially in lowveld areas.
Events
No major festivals this month.
November
November typically marks the beginning of the rainy season with increasing humidity and thunderstorms by month's end. Early rains refresh the landscape but can also make some dirt roads slippery. Visitor numbers drop and some camps offer shoulder-season rates.
Events
No major festivals this month.
December
December sees frequent heavy showers and warm, humid conditions as the wet season becomes established. Rivers and waterfalls start to rise and many areas are lush and green. This is a quieter tourist period for safaris; plan for weather-related travel delays.
Events
No major festivals this month.
How to Get to Zimbabwe #
International arrivals use Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) near Harare or Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) for access to the tourist area; Johannesburg (JNB) is the main regional hub for connections. Overland crossings from South Africa via the Beitbridge border post are heavily used for road travel between the two countries.
- Zimbabwe offers visa‑free entry for many African and SADC states; many other nationalities may apply for an e‑visa or obtain a visa on arrival depending on nationality - check the official Zimbabwe e‑visa portal for eligibility and application procedures.
- Carry a passport valid for at least several months beyond your travel dates and have proof of onward travel and accommodation. Yellow fever vaccination may be required if coming from affected countries; check current health entry rules before departure.
International Airports
All Airports ›Border Crossings #
Zimbabwe ↔ South Africa
The Beitbridge corridor is by far the busiest link between Zimbabwe and South Africa for passengers and freight. The main crossing at Beitbridge (Zimbabwe side) connects to Musina (South Africa) on the N1 and handles heavy truck traffic - expect long queues, especially at weekends and holiday periods. Passports are required; visa rules depend on nationality (many Western nationals need a South African visa, while some African passports have exemptions). Allow extra time for vehicle paperwork (roadworthiness, carnet or temporary import permit) and obtain South African third‑party car insurance before crossing.
Crossings
- Beitbridge (Zimbabwe side) - Musina (South Africa) (Matabeleland South to Limpopo) - Zimbabwe's busiest commercial crossing on the A6/N1. Used by long‑distance buses and heavy trucks; expect long processing times and delays. Suitable for travellers heading to Johannesburg or onward to the Cape; arrange vehicle papers and insurance in advance.
Zimbabwe ↔ Zambia
Two crossing types are important: the tourist crossing at Victoria Falls Bridge (easy day‑trip between Victoria Falls town and Livingstone) and the major commercial road crossing at Chirundu on the Harare-Lusaka route. Visa requirements vary by nationality - Zambia and Zimbabwe both operate visa regimes for many countries, and some nationalities can obtain visas on arrival or use e‑visas; check both immigration sites before travel. Vehicle permits and third‑party insurance are required for road travel between the two countries.
Crossings
- Victoria Falls Bridge (Zimbabwe side) - Livingstone (Zambia) (Matabeleland North to Southern Province (Livingstone)) - A short, scenic crossing primarily used by tourists and day‑trippers; pedestrian immigration posts operate on both ends. It's straightforward for same‑day visits between the towns but busy during peak tourist season - carry passports and check visa rules for both Zambia and Zimbabwe.
- Chirundu One‑Stop Border Post (Zimbabwe side) - Chirundu (Zambia) (Mashonaland West to Lusaka Province) - The principal road freight and passenger crossing on the Harare-Lusaka corridor, upgraded to a one‑stop border post to speed processing. Trucks and long‑distance buses use this crossing heavily; expect standard commercial inspection procedures and queueing during peak periods.
Zimbabwe ↔ Mozambique
The main overland route to Mozambique and the port of Beira passes through the Mutare-Machipanda corridor. This is an important freight and passenger link on the Beira Corridor; travelers should expect slower processing for goods and occasional congestion. Visas for Mozambique depend on nationality (some travellers use e‑visas or visas on arrival); ensure vehicle papers and local insurance are in order before crossing.
Crossings
- Machipanda / Mutare (Zimbabwe side) - Machipanda (Mozambique) (Manicaland (Mutare) to Sofala/Manica (Mozambique)) - Primary road and rail gateway toward Beira; used by trucks moving goods to/from the port and by some intercity buses. Immigration and customs can be slow for freight; travellers often overnight in Mutare before crossing to allow paperwork to be completed.
Zimbabwe ↔ Botswana
There are several minor crossings between Zimbabwe and Botswana used by local traffic and tourism near the Chobe/ northern Matabeleland areas. Visa and vehicle requirements vary by nationality; many visitors must present passports, vehicle documents and purchase third‑party insurance. Crossing conditions can be basic at smaller posts - check opening hours before travel.
Crossings
- (Various local posts) - (Botswana side local posts) (Northern Zimbabwe to Northern Botswana / Chobe area) - Several smaller, less busy border gates serve local communities and safari routes; facilities and opening hours vary. These are practical for regional travel but not recommended for heavy freight; confirm operating hours and requirements with local authorities before attempting a crossing.
How to Get Around Zimbabwe
Regional carriers such as Airlink and larger airlines operate flights between Johannesburg and Harare or Victoria Falls; international long‑haul flights typically connect via Johannesburg, Addis Ababa or Nairobi. Domestic air options are limited but useful for saving time on long itineraries.
Book flights into VFA for direct access to Victoria Falls and nearby lodges; expect seasonal price variations.
Intercity coach companies like Intercape provide scheduled services between South Africa and major Zimbabwean cities (including Harare and Victoria Falls). Coaches are a practical overland option with fares that vary by distance and comfort level.
Within Zimbabwe, long‑distance buses and private shuttles connect main centres; journey durations can be long due to road conditions.
The National Railways of Zimbabwe runs freight and some passenger services, but scheduled passenger trains are limited and often irregular. Rail can be scenic where operational, yet it’s not a reliable replacement for coaches or air travel on most routes.
If considering rail, verify current operations and timetables well in advance.
In urban areas taxis and private cars are the usual way to get around; ride‑hailing services may be available intermittently depending on the city. For convenience and safety, arrange transfers through your accommodation or reputable companies when arriving late.
Local minibuses (kombis) are the cheapest option for short trips but expect crowded conditions and irregular schedules.
Boat and river transfers are used in some tourism areas (for example, river excursions near Victoria Falls) and are generally arranged through tour operators or lodges. Prices for short river trips are typically charged per person and vary by operator and included services.
For multi‑day river journeys or specialized tours, book with licensed operators in advance to confirm safety standards and itineraries.
Where to Stay in Zimbabwe #
Victoria Falls town and the Zambezi riverside offer hotels ranging from mid-range inns to five-star lodges; staying near the Falls provides easy access to tours, river cruises and town amenities.
Safari lodges around Hwange National Park, Mana Pools and Matobo provide guided game drives and walking safaris. Lodges are the primary option for wildlife trips - book through reputable operators for transfers and park access.
Budget guesthouses and backpacker hostels are common in Victoria Falls town and Harare suburbs, offering basic rooms and tour booking help for nearby attractions and safari departures.
National parks and private reserves offer campsites and seasonal mobile camps for a closer wilderness experience - bring warm layers for cold nights and confirm park facilities in advance.
Long-term furnished rentals and serviced apartments are available in Harare and Bulawayo suburbs for expats; Livingstone also has rental houses for extended stays near Victoria Falls.
Staying Connected in Zimbabwe #
Zimbabwe relies heavily on mobile networks for internet access; urban areas have reasonable coverage while speeds and data costs can be variable. Mobile data is often the most practical choice for travelers.
Prepaid SIMs are sold at Harare airport and city shops by Econet Wireless, NetOne and Telecel Zimbabwe. Starter SIMs commonly cost $5-20; data bundles vary widely and can be more expensive than in many other markets.
Harare and Bulawayo hotels and some cafés provide usable Wi‑Fi; coworking options exist but are limited compared with larger regional hubs. For travel outside cities, mobile data is generally more reliable than fixed Wi‑Fi.
SIM registration is mandatory and data prices can be volatile; rural coverage is limited. eSIMs are generally not available, so buy a local physical SIM on arrival.
Health & Safety in Zimbabwe #
Zimbabwe is relatively stable in tourist areas but travellers should be cautious about petty crime, health risks and road conditions. Major concerns include malaria in lowlands, unsafe night driving, and wildlife dangers in parks.
- Health Risks (Malaria & HIV) - Malaria is present in lowland areas; bring prophylaxis, repellents and bed nets. HIV prevalence is higher than in many countries-practice safer-sex precautions and avoid risky behaviour. Carry a basic medical kit and medications.
- Political Stability & Protests - Political demonstrations occur and can turn confrontational. Avoid protests, large gatherings and commenting on politics; follow local media and embassy advice, especially around elections or economic disruptions.
- Scams & Petty Crime - Petty theft and opportunistic scams are common in Harare and tourist hubs. Keep valuables secured, use hotel safes, be cautious with ATMs, and avoid isolated areas after dark to reduce theft risk.
- Wildlife & Park Safety - Game reserves and national parks have dangerous wildlife-lions, elephants and buffalo. Always follow guide instructions, remain in vehicles where required, and avoid walking alone near park boundaries, especially at dawn or dusk.
- Road Safety - Roads in rural areas can be poorly maintained and poorly lit; wildlife and livestock may enter roads. Avoid night driving outside major towns, carry spare fuel/tyres where remote, and use reliable drivers for long journeys.
- Food & Water - Tap water quality varies-stick to bottled or treated water. Foodborne illness occurs from street food and undercooked dishes; eat at reputable places and seek medical help for severe symptoms, particularly dehydration.
History & Culture of Zimbabwe #
Zimbabwe’s cultural identity is shaped by its Great Zimbabwe heritage, strong Shona and Ndebele traditions, and a history of colonialism and contested land politics; music, sculpture and community rituals remain central to social life.
History of Zimbabwe
The territory now called Zimbabwe was home to the medieval stone-city complex Great Zimbabwe, a center of trade and statecraft from roughly the 11th-15th centuries. Colonial conquest in the late 19th century led to rule as Southern Rhodesia, a unilateral declaration of independence by white minority rule in 1965, and a protracted guerrilla war that culminated in recognized independence in 1980 under majority rule.
Notable Figures
- Mbuya Nehanda - A revered Shona spirit medium and leader in the 1896-97 resistance against colonial rule, remembered in oral history and monuments.
- Cecil Rhodes - British imperialist whose policies and companies paved the way for colonial control of the region in the late 19th century.
- Robert Mugabe - Long-serving post-independence leader (1980-2017) whose rule included both early reforms and later economic and political controversies.
- Emmerson Mnangagwa - Political leader who became president following Mugabe's removal in 2017 and remains a central figure in recent politics.
Key Dates
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c. 11th-15th centuryConstruction and flourishing of Great Zimbabwe, a major stone city and regional trade center.
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1890sBritish colonization consolidates control over the territory now called Zimbabwe.
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1965Unilateral Declaration of Independence by the white-minority Rhodesian government under Ian Smith.
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1980Independence achieved as Zimbabwe; Robert Mugabe becomes prime minister after elections.
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2000Large-scale land reform and fast-track land redistribution begins, significantly affecting agriculture and economy.
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2007-2009Severe economic crisis and hyperinflation culminate in the abandonment of the Zimbabwean dollar in favor of multiple foreign currencies.
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2017Robert Mugabe is removed from power and succeeded by Emmerson Mnangagwa after a military intervention and political transition.
Zimbabwean cuisine centers on maize (sadza) with stews, vegetables and preserved proteins; meals are communal and often simple, reflecting agricultural cycles and local produce.
Language
English is an official language used in government and education, while Shona and Ndebele are principal indigenous languages; many Zimbabweans are bilingual or multilingual in daily life.
Useful Phrases
- Hello (informal / formal) - Hello - Mhoro / Mhoroi mhaw-roh / mhoh-roi
- How are you? - How are you? - Wakadini? wah-kah-dee-nee
- I'm fine - I'm fine - Ndiri bho n-dee-ree bho
- Hello (Ndebele / Zulu) - Sawubona sah-woo-boh-nah
- Thank you (Ndebele/Zulu) - Ngiyabonga n-gee-yah-bon-gah
- No (Shona) - Kwete kweh-teh
- Yes (Shona) - Ehe eh-heh
- Thank you (Shona) - Ndatenda / Tatenda n-da-ten-da / ta-ten-da
- Help! (use English in many urban/emergency settings) - Help! help
- I need a doctor - I need a doctor I need a doctor
- Where is the clinic? - Where is the clinic? - Kupi chiremba? koo-pee chi-rem-bah
Responsible Travel in Zimbabwe #
Zimbabwe’s iconic wildlife and Victoria Falls attract many visitors - responsible choices help protect animals, rivers and the livelihoods of local communities.
- Wildlife & Safari Ethics: In Hwange, Mana Pools and other conservancies choose operators that follow strict viewing distances, anti‑poaching measures and transparent conservation fees to reduce disturbance and support protection.
- Responsible Visits to Victoria Falls: Use designated trails and viewing platforms in Victoria Falls National Park, avoid feeding or approaching baboons and other wildlife, and pick licensed local guides for excursions.
- Avoid Harmful Wildlife Practices: Do not support lion petting, cub handling attractions or canned hunting; seek operators and lodges that prioritise long‑term welfare and conservation.
- Support Local Enterprises: Buy crafts and services from vendors and community-run projects in Victoria Falls town and surrounding villages to ensure tourism revenue benefits residents.
- Zambezi River & Water Conservation: Choose river operators that manage fuel and waste carefully on the Zambezi, and avoid activities that contribute to erosion or pollution of riverine habitats.
- Cultural Respect: Ask permission before photographing people in Tonga and other communities, and be mindful of local customs and ceremonial times when planning visits.
Travel Resources for Zimbabwe #
Official
- Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Official Tourism
- Government of Zimbabwe (official portal) Government
Travel Advisories
Useful Apps for Zimbabwe
- Google Maps - Essential for navigation across Zimbabwe.
- Google Translate - Translate local languages and signs when needed.
- WhatsApp Messenger - Commonly used for communication with drivers and accommodations.
- Wildlife Safaris / Promoted apps - Local tour operators' apps/bookings vary by operator-check providers before travel.