Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe: The Heart of African Adventure
Zimbabwe, a nation of astonishing natural beauty, incredibly welcoming people, and a rich tapestry of culture, is re-emerging as a jewel in Africa’s safari crown. After years of political shifts, the country is now thriving, offering an authentic and unforgettable African experience. At Sky Safaris, we invite you to discover Zimbabwe’s majestic landscapes and vibrant wildlife from a truly unique perspective – soaring above its iconic wonders.
Imagine the breathtaking sight of Victoria Falls, locally known as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ – ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ – as its colossal curtain of water plunges into the Zambezi Gorge. From the sky, you grasp the sheer scale and power of this Natural Wonder of the World, an experience that is both awe-inspiring and deeply moving.
Practical Information for Your Zimbabwean Journey with Sky Safaris
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, here’s essential practical advice:
Banking and Currency
- Currency: Zimbabwe uses its own unit of currency, the Zimbabwe Dollar (ZiG). No other currency is officially accepted for transactions.
- Cash is King: It is highly recommended to exchange all the money you will need for your trip before arriving in Zimbabwe. Carry smaller denominations (1, 5, 10, 20) as change may not always be readily available.
- ATMs & Cards: Do not rely on being able to use international ATMs. While some major banks (Barclays, Stanbic, Standard Chartered) may infrequently accept foreign debit cards for cash withdrawals in an emergency, this facility is not guaranteed or reliable.
- Credit Cards: Only VISA and MasterCard are generally accepted, but very limited facilities will have credit card machines, and connections can be unreliable. Always carry sufficient cash as a backup.
Travel, Transport, and Getting Around
- Air Travel: Major airlines fly into Victoria Falls, Harare, and Bulawayo. For seamless and swift access to remote attractions and camps, Sky Safaris specializes in convenient charter flights, ensuring you spend more time enjoying your safari and less time on the road.
- Taxis: Taxis are safe and reliable within city limits (typically a 40km radius). We recommend booking them through your hotel front desk, and always using a taxi at night.
- Roads: Zimbabwe has a generally good road infrastructure by African standards, though some areas may have potholes. Frequent roadblocks occur between major towns. Traffic drives on the left side of the road.
- Self-Driving (If Applicable): If you plan to self-drive (though Sky Safaris recommends guided transfers for convenience and safety), always check fuel availability in advance. For long distances, carry extra fuel in 5 or 10-liter metal containers. Fuel is generally available but supply can fluctuate and is typically cash-only.
Food, Drink, and Cuisine Advice
- Local Cuisine: Experience local Zimbabwean cuisine, based on ‘sadza’ (cooked porridge from ground maize), often served with a tasty relish of meat, tomatoes, or dried fish. Many safari camps can prepare sadza upon request, and it’s readily available in local town restaurants.
- International Standards: Our chosen camps, hotels, and lodges that cater to international visitors consistently serve a variety of high-quality international fare. Even in the most remote bush camps, the standard of food preparation is excellent.
- Water Safety: Water in main towns is usually purified. While locals drink it, visitors are advised to drink only bottled, boiled, or treated water which is readily available in towns and at all camps, lodges, and hotels. This is crucial for a healthy trip, especially for shorter stays.
Is Travel to Zimbabwe Safe? Your Peace of Mind is Our Priority
We understand that concerns about travel safety are paramount. We are proud to assure our clients that Zimbabwe is widely acclaimed as one of the safest and friendliest destinations on the continent.
Warm Welcome: Visitors consistently report receiving an incredibly warm welcome from the Zimbabwean people, whose culture of friendliness and helpfulness is truly exceptional.
Low Crime Rates: Security is generally excellent, with criminality confined to petty levels. There have been no reported incidents of violence against tourists for several years.
Dedicated Tourist Security: Tour operators and service providers have proactively established a dedicated Police sector specifically focused on tourist safety. You'll see these visible patrols ensuring your peace of mind, especially in popular areas like Victoria Falls.
Seamless Journeys: While past logistical constraints existed, travel around Zimbabwe is now safe and enjoyable, particularly when managed by experienced operators like Sky Safaris.
Beyond the Safari: Why Zimbabwe Stands Apart
Zimbabwe offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, culture, and natural wonder:
World Heritage Sites: Home to acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing both natural and cultural treasures.
The Unrivalled Power of Victoria Falls: Witness the largest single curtain of falling water on Earth, more than twice the size of Niagara, an unforgettable spectacle.
Africa's Adventure Capital: From adrenaline-pumping activities at Victoria Falls to immersive wildlife encounters, Zimbabwe offers a vast array of natural-world adventures.
