Zimbabwe

CURRENCY

RTGS$ (real-time gross settlement dollar). As of February 2019, Zimbabwe has been using this transitional new currency that trades between RTGS$ 3 and 4 to 1 US$. However, a multicurrency system is largely in use with US dollars being actively used in all retailers and business centers.

LANGUAGE AND POPULATION

English, Shona, and Ndebele. English is widely spoken across the country for business and trade.

Capital City

The capital and largest city in Zimbabwe is Harare. This is the center of most government and business activity as well as international flights.

Government

South Africa has a democratic voting system, and since 1994 the African Nation Congress has dominated the public vote. Current president (2019) – Cyril Ramaphosa

Plugs and Sockets

The main power plugs and sockets used are Types D and G. Standard voltage is 220V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz.

SIZE

Zimbabwe is a landlocked country with an area of 390,757 km2. The population is estimated at 17 million as of 2019.

Sadza

This maize meal pulp is the staple food and can be served alongside different relishes such as green vegetables together with traditional beef or chicken stew.

Mazhanje

These are wild loquats and just one of the many wild fruits that are often picked and sold in the farmer’s markets and street vending stalls. Other wild fruits include masawi, nyii, matohwe, matamba, and mauyu or baobab.

Madora or Amacimbi

These wild Mopani worms are black caterpillars harvested from Mopane trees. Once dried, they are cooked and can be served as a relish for sadza.

Ishwa

These are flying termites that emerge in swarms from their anthills during the rainy season. They are caught and roasted as a snack and have a delicious nutty taste.

Pre-Plan with Agencies

To make the most of the trip, travel operators can assist with finding great holiday packages and making ideal accommodation and transport arrangements. A tour guide may also be helpful, but it is easy enough to navigate alone because English is the main medium of communication. Local people are welcoming and very willing to help.

Hotel Information

There are many accommodation options including five-star hotels and smaller lodges and villas. For cultural immersion or more budget-friendly options, cottages at local homes or Airbnb options are available.

Public Transportation

The public transportation system in towns and cities is dominated by commuter omnibus vehicles known locally as kombis. These operate on a fill-as-you go arrangement, so there is no scheduling involved. This can make it difficult to plan trips.

Cities

In some cities like Harare, the CBD district can be very busy and the sidewalks packed with a variety of goods for sale. Some urban roads have potholes, while many rural roads are not yet tarred.

Time allocation and itinerary suggestion

• Harare is roughly in the northeast of the country. It is an excellent place to arrive initially and used as a base for further travel. Many tourists also opt to start off in Victoria Falls and then progress to other parts of the country.

• To cover most of the main tourist points of interest, a five-day trip, at least, is a good idea. This allows a day or two in the capital and seeing the nearby sights, 2-3 days in Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park, and some extra days for other sights, travel, and rest.

• Local tourist agencies also offer one-day sightseeing tours to other points of interest near and around the main cities.

• Malaria precautions such as tablets are important as some of the areas in northern Zimbabwe are malaria risk areas.

• Zimbabwe has enjoyable tropical weather, and the winters are not too extreme. The rainy season occurs between November to March. Travel year-round is possible, but the drier winter months from April to October might be the best option.

Budget

Budget recommendations will vary depending on the preferred accommodation and travel options. USD$1,000 for a 5-day trip per individual is a moderate estimate.