Zimbabwe Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Zimbabwe.
Healthcare System
Zimbabwe's healthcare system faces significant challenges due to economic constraints, resulting in shortages of medical supplies, equipment, and qualified staff. Public hospitals are often under-resourced, while private medical facilities in major cities offer better standards but can be expensive.
Hospitals
Private hospitals recommended for tourists include Avenues Clinic and Borrowdale Trauma Centre in Harare, Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls Surgery in Victoria Falls. These facilities can handle most routine medical needs but may require upfront payment or proof of insurance coverage before treatment.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are available in major cities and tourist areas, but medication shortages are common. Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications in original packaging with prescriptions. Common over-the-counter medications may be available but brands differ from Western countries. Pharmacies typically open 8am-5pm weekdays, limited weekend hours.
Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is absolutely essential. Ensure your policy covers emergency medical evacuation to South Africa (minimum $100,000 USD coverage recommended) as serious conditions cannot be adequately treated locally.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a complete first-aid kit and sufficient supplies of all prescription medications for your entire trip plus extra
- Carry copies of prescriptions and medical records, including vaccination certificates
- Confirm your insurance covers Zimbabwe and includes air ambulance/medical evacuation to South Africa
- Keep contact details for your insurance company's 24-hour emergency assistance readily available
- Consider registering with your embassy upon arrival for emergency assistance
- Drink only bottled or purified water; avoid ice in drinks outside reputable hotels
- Private medical facilities may require cash payment upfront or credit card guarantee before treatment
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft from vehicles are common in urban areas, particularly in Harare and Bulawayo. Thieves often work in groups and target distracted tourists, especially near ATMs, markets, and transport hubs.
Muggings can occur, particularly after dark in urban areas. Armed robberies targeting tourists are less common but have occurred, especially involving vehicles stopped at traffic lights or isolated areas.
Smash-and-grab thefts from vehicles, carjacking attempts, and theft of unattended vehicles occur. Criminals may target vehicles stopped at traffic lights or in parking areas.
Zimbabwe's national parks contain dangerous wildlife including elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and buffalo. Most incidents occur when tourists ignore safety guidelines or venture too close to animals.
Poor road conditions, potholes, unmarked hazards, livestock on roads, reckless driving, and poorly maintained vehicles create significant risks. Roadblocks and police checkpoints are common.
Occasional political demonstrations and protests occur, primarily in Harare and other urban centers. These can turn violent with police using force to disperse crowds.
Zimbabwe has experienced currency instability and periodic cash shortages. ATMs may be empty or have withdrawal limits. Currency regulations change frequently.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals impersonating police officers stop tourists claiming document checks or vehicle violations, then demand immediate cash 'fines' or bribes. Some may threaten arrest or vehicle impoundment.
Street money changers offer better rates than official bureaus but use sleight of hand, counterfeit notes, or shortchange tourists. Some work with accomplices who pose as police to 'confiscate' money after the exchange.
Unlicensed operators at airports or hotels offer cheap safari packages that either don't materialize, provide substandard service, or add hidden fees. Some use unqualified guides or unsafe vehicles.
Individuals approach tourists with stories about orphanages, schools, or medical needs requiring urgent donations. Money rarely reaches intended beneficiaries.
Budget accommodations advertised online look nothing like actual property, or rooms are 'unavailable' upon arrival with pressure to accept inferior alternatives at same price.
Card details are copied when using ATMs or making purchases, leading to fraudulent charges. Skimming devices may be attached to ATMs or used by dishonest merchants.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Money and Valuables
- Bring US dollars in small denominations (notes issued after 2009 in pristine condition)
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuables
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave expensive jewelry at home
- Keep emergency cash hidden separately from your main wallet
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours only
- Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid card blocks
- Carry photocopies of important documents separately from originals
- Consider using a money belt or hidden pouch for important items
Transportation
- Use reputable taxi companies or hotel-arranged transport; avoid unmarked taxis
- Avoid intercity travel after dark due to poor road conditions and security risks
- Keep car doors locked and windows up while driving
- Don't pick up hitchhikers or stop for strangers on the road
- Carry spare tire, jack, and emergency supplies when driving
- Have all vehicle documents readily available for police checkpoints
- Book domestic flights with established airlines for long distances
- If using public transport, keep valuables secure and remain vigilant
Accommodation
- Book accommodations in advance through reputable platforms
- Choose hotels with security features like guards, secure parking, and safes
- Keep room doors and windows locked at all times
- Don't open door to unexpected visitors; verify identity through reception
- Store valuables in room safe or hotel safe deposit box
- Know emergency exits and evacuation procedures
- Keep emergency contact numbers and hotel address in local language handy
Photography and Technology
- Don't photograph government buildings, military installations, or airports
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas
- Keep expensive cameras and equipment concealed when not in use
- Avoid using phones or cameras in crowded areas where theft is common
- Back up photos regularly to cloud storage
- Be discreet with expensive electronics in public
- Consider using a basic phone for everyday use, keeping smartphone secure
Health and Hygiene
- Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer
- Only drink bottled water; check seals are intact
- Avoid raw or undercooked food, salads, and street food unless from trusted sources
- Bring comprehensive first aid kit and personal medications
- Ensure vaccinations are up to date (Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever if coming from endemic area)
- Take malaria prophylaxis and use mosquito protection
- Seek medical attention immediately if you develop fever after visiting malaria areas
- Avoid contact with animals to prevent rabies risk
Wildlife Safety
- Never approach or feed wildlife under any circumstances
- Always stay in vehicle unless in designated safe areas with ranger permission
- Maintain at least 20 meters distance from elephants, more if they show signs of agitation
- Never walk alone in national parks; always use qualified guides
- Be especially cautious near water where hippos and crocodiles may be present
- Follow all instructions from park rangers and guides immediately
- Don't make sudden movements or loud noises around wildlife
- Store food securely to avoid attracting animals to camps
Cultural Sensitivity
- Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting local communities
- Ask permission before entering villages or photographing ceremonies
- Learn basic greetings in Shona or Ndebele; locals appreciate the effort
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Don't discuss politics or criticize the government publicly
- Bargain respectfully in markets but pay fair prices
- Remove shoes when entering homes if invited
Communication
- Purchase local SIM card for reliable communication (Econet has best coverage)
- Save emergency contacts and important numbers offline
- Share your itinerary with someone back home
- Register with your embassy if staying for extended period
- Keep hotel contact information readily available
- Download offline maps before traveling to remote areas
- Learn key phrases in local languages for emergencies
- Keep your accommodation and tour operator informed of your plans
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers can visit Zimbabwe safely with appropriate precautions. While Zimbabwean culture is generally respectful and violent crime against women tourists is relatively rare, women may experience verbal harassment, particularly in urban areas. Solo women travelers should exercise additional caution, especially after dark. The tourism industry is accustomed to women travelers, and many visit without incident.
- Avoid walking alone after dark; use reputable taxis or hotel transport
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially outside tourist areas
- Book accommodations with good security and reviews from other women travelers
- Consider joining group tours or activities rather than exploring alone in unfamiliar areas
- Ignore catcalls and unwanted attention; respond firmly but politely if approached
- Wear a fake wedding ring and mention a 'husband' if unwanted attention persists
- Sit near other women or families on public transport
- Trust your instincts; remove yourself from situations that feel uncomfortable
- Keep phone charged and emergency contacts readily accessible
- Avoid accepting drinks from strangers or leaving drinks unattended
- Connect with other travelers or join women-focused travel groups
- Be cautious about sharing accommodation details or travel plans with strangers
- Consider carrying a whistle or personal alarm
- In safari settings, inform guides if anyone makes you uncomfortable
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is illegal in Zimbabwe under colonial-era laws, though prosecutions are rare. Same-sex relationships are not recognized, and there are no anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. The legal environment is hostile with potential penalties including fines and imprisonment.
- Avoid public displays of affection with same-sex partners
- Do not disclose sexual orientation or gender identity to strangers or casual acquaintances
- Be extremely discreet about relationships and personal life
- Research accommodations carefully; book private rooms rather than shared spaces
- Avoid LGBTQ+ venues or gatherings as they may attract police attention
- Do not engage in political discussions about LGBTQ+ rights
- Consider traveling as 'friends' or 'colleagues' rather than partners
- Be aware that hotel staff may refuse to provide double beds for same-sex couples
- Have a cover story prepared if questioned about relationships
- Connect with international LGBTQ+ travel groups for updated advice before traveling
- Register with your embassy and keep emergency contacts readily available
- Consider whether travel to Zimbabwe is advisable given the legal and social risks
- Remove any LGBTQ+-identifying items from social media visible to others
- Be prepared for potential discrimination and have contingency plans
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is absolutely essential for Zimbabwe due to the limited healthcare infrastructure, potential need for medical evacuation, and various travel risks. The cost of medical evacuation to South Africa can exceed $50,000 USD, and local private medical facilities often require upfront payment. Insurance provides crucial financial protection and access to assistance services that can be invaluable in emergencies.
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