Summary of Zimbabwe Travel Guide
Fast Facts About Zimbabwe
- Location and size: Zimbabwe is a landlocked country in southern Africa, bordered by South Africa, Mozambique, Botswana, and Zambia. Its total area spans 150,872 square miles (390,757 square kilometers), similar in size to Montana in the U.S.
- Capital: Harare
- Demographics: The population is approximately 16 million, with an average life expectancy of around 58 years.
- Languages: Zimbabwe boasts 16 official languages, the most widely spoken being Shona and Ndebele.
- Religion: Christianity is predominant, with 85% of the population identifying as Protestant Christians.
- Currency: The U.S. dollar has been the official currency since 2009 due to hyperinflation, although other currencies like the South African rand are also accepted.
- Weather: The summer months (November to March) are hot and wet, while winter months (June to September) are dry with warm days and cool nights.
- Best time to visit: The dry season (April to October) is ideal for visiting Zimbabwe, as animal sightings are more common around water sources.
Key Attractions in Zimbabwe
- Victoria Falls: Known as “The Smoke That Thunders,” Victoria Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, offering various activities including bungee jumping and whitewater rafting.
- Great Zimbabwe: This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the medieval capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe, featuring intricately constructed stone ruins.
- Hwange National Park: The largest game reserve in Zimbabwe, Hwange is renowned for its populations of elephants and buffalo, as well as several endangered species.
- Lake Kariba: This vast man-made lake on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border is famous for its diverse wildlife and is a popular spot for houseboat vacations.
Getting to Zimbabwe
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (formerly Harare International Airport) serves as the main entry point to Zimbabwe. Major airlines such as British Airways and South African Airways operate flights to Harare, from where domestic flights are available to popular destinations like Victoria Falls and Bulawayo.
Travelers should be aware of visa requirements, as visitors from several countries including the U.S., U.K., and Canada may need a visa, which can often be obtained at the point of entry. Always verify the latest visa regulations with the nearest embassy before traveling.
Medical Precautions for Visiting Zimbabwe
Travelers are advised to get certain vaccinations before arriving in Zimbabwe, including hepatitis A and B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, and influenza. Additionally, malaria is a concern in many parts of the country, so taking prophylactics as recommended by a healthcare provider is advisable. For comprehensive health information, refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
