- ZIMBABWE -

Credit cards:

We recommend that you don’t use a credit card whilst in Zimbabwe. There is a vast
difference between the “official “and “unofficial” rates of exchange and you will end up
paying much more than you thought.

Currency:

• The Zimbabwean currency is the Zimbabwe dollar the largest denomination of which is
  $100,000. Because of rampant inflation you can end up carrying huge brick sized wads
  of notes. We suggest you carry some small denominations of foreign currency which you
  can change to Zim$ as you need it
• DO NOT be tempted to change money with people on the street however charming or
  persistent. It’s against the law. Rather go to a reputable bureau de change.
• If you plan on buying some of the stunning curios on offer in Victoria Falls you may
  want take along a ‘sweetener’ to clinch your deal in the form of old clothes
  (T-shirts are popular), sunglasses, batteries even pens.

Health:

• The Victoria Falls region is a malaria area. We strongly recommend that you consult a
  doctor and start prophylaxis before your arrival. Be smart not paranoid. Cover up with
  long pants and shirts after dark, sleep under a mosquito net and use mosquito repellant.
• Be aware that a lot of anti malaria medication and pregnancies don’t go together. If you
  are planning a family please discuss a medication that is suitable with your doctor.
• Victoria Falls is serviced by medical air rescue services (MARS) They will be able to
  attend to you in an emergency and, if required, airlift you to the nearest hospital facility
  that can treat your condition.
• All visitors are responsible for their own travel and medical insurance. Please ensure
  fully for emergency evacuation, medical, curtailment and repatriation.

How to get there:

• There are currently three airlines which service the Johannesburg to Victoria Falls route :
  BA-Comair, SAA and Air Zimbabwe. SAA & BA Comair fly daily and Air Zimbabwe flies
  3 times a week.
• Air Zimbabwe flies from Harare to Victoria Falls 3 times a week.
• SAA’s Voyager Miles which can be used to redeemed for flights to Victoria Falls. You
  currently require 20000 Voyage Miles on Mileage Keeper to fly to Victoria Falls in
  economy class. This is subject to change. To be sure visit www.flysaa.comwww.flysaa.com
• We offer excellent fly in packages which include accommodation, flights and transfers.
  Email us for further information.
• Self drive: We recommend self drive visitors from South Africa drive via Botswana.
  Although there are no security issues with travelling in Zimbabwe, fuel availability
  continues to be a problem. The road via Nata to Kasane is tarred all the way. Cross over
  into Zimbabwe at Kasane. It’s approximately 100kms from Kasane to Victoria Falls.
  • You will require your vehicle ownership papers (or a certified copy) and a police
  clearance certificate of your vehicle. We recommend you contact your nearest AA
  (Automobile Association) for the up to date requirements.
• Border post times: (subject to change)
  Beitbridge - 0600 – 2230hrs daily
  Kazungula - 0600 – 1800hrs daily
  Victoria Falls - 0600 – 1800hrs daily
• International driving permits and driving licenses issued in all SADC countries are valid
  in Zimbabwe. Visitors from other countries not covered by this agreement are able to
  drive for a period of 90 days using driving permits or licenses issued in their home
  countries.

Passports:

• All visitors require valid passports to enter Zimbabwe
• Passports must be valid for at least 6months and have at least 2 blank pages.
• See visa requirements below.

Security:

We are asked all time “is it safe to go to Zimbabwe”? Absolutely. If you come from South
Africa I rest my case… As in most countries the locals can see that you are a tourist so be
aware and take responsibility for the security of your stuff. Don’t create temptation by
leaving cash and valuables lying around. Make use of the safe facilities that most lodges
offer in facilities either in the rooms or at reception.As a tourist your valuable revenue is
providing jobs and a lifeline to the families of those that are employed directly and
indirectly in the tourism industry.

Visas:

• Visas are only a formality for SA passport holders and passports are rubber stamped on
  entry to Zimbabwe.
• Most passport holders including UK & US need a visa to enter Zimbabwe. Bar a few
  nationalities which require a visa prior to entering Zimbabwe, most visas can be bought
  on arrival in Zimbabwe. Only single and double entry visas can be obtained on arrival so
  if you are planning on going across to Livingstone for some activities and maybe to Chobe
  for the day you may want to consider getting a multiple entry visa before your arrival.
  These can only be obtained from a Zimbabwe Foreign office.
• Useful links:
  For more information on a the location of your nearest Zimbabwe Foreign office see
  http://www.zimbabwetourism.co.zw
  For latest visa requirements visit:
  http://www.zimbabwetourism.co.zw