COUNTRY GUIDE
Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls majesty meets ancient Great Zimbabwe ruins
Zimbabwe hits different than other African destinations. Sure, Victoria Falls draws the crowds — and rightfully so. But this country serves up ancient stone cities that predate European contact by centuries, game reserves where you'll spot the Big Five without the Kenyan crowds, and locals who'll invite you for sadza before you can say "hello" in Shona. The economic challenges of the past two decades kept tourism numbers low, which means you're getting authentic experiences at prices that won't drain your savings account. From the thundering Zambezi to the granite kopjes of Matobo Hills, Zimbabwe rewards travelers who venture beyond the obvious.
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Victoria Falls town puts you walking distance from the falls themselves — stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel for colonial grandeur or Shearwater Explorers Village for backpacker vibes. But here's what most guides won't tell you: Livingstone in Zambia offers better value and it's just 10 minutes across the border. In Harare, the Avenues neighborhood keeps you close to galleries and restaurants, while Borrowdale has upscale lodges if you're flying in and out. For safari, skip the overcrowded Hwange camps and head to Mana Pools — the tented camps along the Zambezi put you right in the action. Matobo Hills near Bulawayo offers cave paintings and rhino tracking from intimate lodges like Camp Amalinda.
Money-Saving Tips
- 1.Bring US dollars in small bills — most places accept them alongside Zimbabwean dollars, and you'll get better rates than exchanging at banks
- 2.Fuel costs fluctuate wildly, so budget extra for road trips and always fill up when you find a station
- 3.Many lodges and tour operators offer significant discounts for bookings made locally rather than through international sites
- 4.Street food and local markets offer incredible value — a full meal costs under $3 at most local restaurants
- 5.Tipping in US dollars gets better service, especially at hotels and restaurants where staff prefer hard currency
Travel Tips
- •Pack layers — temperatures swing from chilly mornings to scorching afternoons, especially during dry season
- •Yellow fever vaccination is required if you're coming from an affected area, but not otherwise mandatory
- •Download offline maps before you go — cell service can be spotty outside major towns
- •Respect photography rules at Victoria Falls — some viewpoints prohibit cameras to prevent tourist accidents
- •Learn basic Shona greetings like 'Mangwanani' (good morning) — locals appreciate the effort and open up immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Zimbabwe is generally safe for tourists. The political situation has stabilized significantly, and tourist areas like Victoria Falls and major game reserves maintain good security. Use common sense in cities — avoid displaying expensive items and stick to well-lit areas at night. The biggest safety concerns are wildlife encounters during safari activities and road conditions outside major highways.