Zimbabwe

Visitor Information

Climate | Latest Travel Advice | Visas & Immigration | Money | Local Time | Getting Around | Public Holidays | | Travel Health and Vaccinations |Electrical Power | Travel Insurance

CLIMATE

Altitude and relief greatly affect both temperature and rainfall in Zimbabwe. The higher areas in the east and the High Veld receive more rainfall and are cooler than the lower areas. Temperatures on the High Veld vary from 12 - 13°C (55°F) in winter and 24°C (75°F) in summer. On the Low Veld the temperatures are usually 5.5°C (10°F) higher, and summer temperatures in the Zambezi and Limpopo valleys average between 32C - 38°C (90 - 100°F). Rainfall decreases from east to west. The eastern mountains receive as much as 40 inches annually, while Harare has 32 inches and Bulawayo 23.6 inches. The south and southwest receive little rainfall. Seasonal shortages of water are common. The summer rainy season last from November to March. It is followed by a transitional season, during which both rainfall and temperatures decrease. The cool, dry season follows, lasting from mid-May to mid-August. Finally, there is the warm, dry season, which last until the onset of the rains.

Climate Chart for Harare

For today's weather forecast see     CNN - Africa Weather Forecasts

LATEST TRAVEL ADVICE
Foreign & Commonwealth Office (London)
US State Department - Travel Warnings

VISAS & IMMIGRATION

All visitors require a visa apart from nationals from the following countries:- Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, USA, Japan, Nationals of commonwealth states (excluding Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, South Africa and Sri Lanka).

Many, but not all, other nationals who do require visas can obtain them upon arrival. You are strongly advised to check with your local consulate or embassy.

Listing of Zimbabwean Embassies, Tourist Offices and/or High Commission located around the world

MONEY

Official Currency:    Zimbabwe Dollar=100 cents
Current Exchange Rate:    Today's Exchange Rate

The major credit cards are widely accepted but will incur high charges. Travellers cheques are best taken in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling. Most Hotel accommodation must be paid for in foreign currency.

It is adviseable to take a small amount of cash in US Dollar or Pounds Sterling - smaller bills are better. If paying in foreign currency be sure to have small bills available as change will be given to you in Zimbabawe Dollars - which are at the current time is virtually worthless.


BANKING & BUSINESS HOURS

Banking:    Wednesday: 0800-1300,     Saturday: 0800-1130, Sunday: closed    rest of week: 0800-1500
Shops: Monday to Friday: 0800-1700    Saturday: 0800-1300

Location of Visa ATM's
Barclays Bank Cash Machine Locations

LOCAL TIME

Zimbabwe is two hours ahead of GMT

TRANSPORT & GETTING AROUND

Air:	International Flights to Zimbabwe Click for flights from Europe with BA.com Domestic Flights Air Zimbabwe offers a domestic service which connects Harare and Bulawayo with Victoria Falls, Kariba, Masvingo, Gweru and Hwange National Park.
Train:	There is a good rail network connecting Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare and Victoria Falls. The majority of trains and three classes and often third calls is cheaper than express bus. Most rail travel takes place at night and sleeping compartments are available and you can hire bedding. It is advisable to book as far ahead as possible.
Bus:	Express and local buses are the two forms of bus transportation. The express buses run scheduled services between the major cities and you need to book in advance. Local buses are cheap, fast , fairly safe. and often busy. There aren't any schedules but they depart from township bus stations. Blue Arrow   luxury coach operator, to major centres throughout Zimbabwe Intercape Mainliner Luxury Inter City Transport provider covering Southern Africa. Travel in the lap of excellance with Intercape Mainliner..
Self Drive / Car Hire:	Zimbabwe - Sheet map  (Maps Worldwide) Published by ITMB Publishing Ltd Series Africa specialise in areas that are interesting, exotic and off the beaten track - published for the English speaking traveller. Light, practical and should be invaluable for the backpacker, traveller or tourist Other Maps & Atlases for Sale
	There is a fairly good network of roads, but some are in poor condition. Driving is on the left hand side and an International Driving Licence is recommended. There are numerous local and international car hire firms Click to Rent a car in Zimbabwe

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

TRAVEL HEALTH AND VACCINATIONS

For advise of malaria, vaccinations and other health issues please click here

ELECTRICAL POWER

TRAVEL INSURANCE

If you need medical care whilst in Zimbabwe, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.

To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.

It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.

You can check out the following websites which specialise in long term travellers, adventure travellers, backpackers and workers based abroad.

	Insure and Go - UK Travellers whether it's for a one off holiday or if you travel many times over the year, if you're off backpacking before university or you're retired and looking to explore the world; if you're after winter sports cover or if it's for a business trip, a wedding abroad or a golfing weekend away, we have a policy at the right price to ensure you have the peace of mind that you are covered for the unexpected while you're away.
	- UK Travellers Offering a full range of policies, single trip, young travellers, long stay, annual cover for UK residents. Get your quote and policy on-line....
	Insure My Trip - USA travellers offer 63 different travel insurance plans from 14 different companies - no other site has such product depth or comparison features. You can compare each policy giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your travel insurance needs. .
	Downunder Insurance - UK - Australia and New Zealand Travellers offers travel insurance to travellers and residents in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Our cover ranges from basic to highly comprehensive, with affordable policies aimed at backpackers and gap-year students, but with cover available to travellers and holiday makers up to 55 years of age.