In addition to the famous Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe conceals lesser-known treasures, such as the Hwange Park, rich in wildlife such as lion, leopard, cheetah, zebra, buffalo and renowned for an important elephant population. Other destinations include the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, the biggest medieval city in sub-Saharan Africa and recognised as a World Heritage site; the National Matobo Park with its astounding rocky setting. Explore a variety of amazing landscapes: mountains, hills, plateaux and savannah. Culture and crafts abound, seducing visitors to a country that has so much to offer.


USEFUL INFORMATION

Communications
The international country code for Zimbabwe is +263. Cellular service providers in Zimbabwe are Econet Wireless, Net*One and TelCel Zimbabwe.

Credit Card and Currency
Major credit cards are accepted at all larger accommodation establishments, restaurants and retailers. The official currency is the Zimbabwe Dollar. The monetary situation in Zimbabwe is unstable and inflation causes prices to fluctuate significantly.

Driving
Zimbabwe drives on the left. The main roads throughout Zimbabwe are generally well maintained and access to service stations is available. Travelers should exercise extra caution when driving at night due to pedestrians (in dark clothing) and animals walking in the poorly lit roads

Electricity
220/240V. Outlets are the round-three-pin type.

Language
English is the official language of Zimbabwe. Other widely spoken languages are Chishona and Sindebele.

Malaria
Malaria risk exists from November through June in a areas below 1200m and throughout the year in the Zambezi Valley. In Harare and Bulawayo, the risk is negligible.

Safety
Victoria Falls is a major tourist destination and is considered relatively safe, but visitors are urged to use the same security precautions they would exercise in any urban area of the developing world. Zimbabweans are known for their hospitality and friendliness towards each other and visitors alike. Although all Zimbabweans are very helpful it is always advisable to be cautious when dealing with strangers.

Time
Two (2) hours ahead of GMT. Zimbabwe does not observe daylight savings.

Tipping
Tipping is common practice in Zimbabwe for a range of services. In restaurants the accepted standard is around 10% of the bill.

Visa
A valid passport is required to enter Zimbabwe. The date of expiry should be at least six months after the visitor intends to end his/her stay in the country. Visa at port of entry: Single-entry US$30; Double-entry US$45; Multiple-entry US$55.
Important Note: This is a guide only - please check with your nearest Zimbabwean consulate, embassy or Zimbabwean diplomatic mission for up to date information.

Weather
Zimbabwe has two seasons, summer and winter :
Summer runs October through April and is hot and humid with daytime temperature over 30 C.
Winter runs May through September. Days are dry and sunny with average temperature of 20 C. Nights can be quite cool to cold.
 
Vaccinations
No specific vaccination is required for entry in the country. However it would be recommended that the following vaccines be administered or up-dated prior to coming to the country: Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, anti-polio and anti-meningoccocal meningitis vaccines.

Shopping
In general, shops are open from 08.00 until 17.00 and closed on Saturday afternoons and Sundays