Zimbabwe is a beautiful destination with stunning landscapes and amazing wildlife. It’s also a country where you need to stay mindful of your health and safety while traveling. Here are some straightforward tips to help you stay safe and healthy during your visit.
Health Precautions
Recommended Vaccinations
Before visiting Zimbabwe, it’s a good idea to update some vaccinations. The Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization recommend routine vaccinations like measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), polio, and the yearly flu shot.
Other advised vaccinations include hepatitis A, typhoid, and hepatitis B, especially if you might eat local food often or might stay outside major cities. Malaria is also a concern in many areas, so it’s smart to take anti-malarial medication if you’ll spend time in rural regions. Yellow fever vaccination is only required if you’re coming from a country where yellow fever is present.
Staying Healthy
Tap water in Zimbabwe is not always safe to drink, especially in rural areas. Stick to bottled water or use water purification tablets when necessary. Also, wash your hands regularly, especially before eating.
Bring a basic first-aid kit with essentials like painkillers, bandages, antiseptic cream, and rehydration salts. You never know when you’ll need them, and having them on hand can save you hassle.
Malaria is present, especially during the rainy season (November to April). Wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings, use insect repellent containing DEET, and sleep under mosquito nets if possible.
Emergency Numbers & Health Services
Emergency Contacts
In case of emergencies in Zimbabwe, here are some useful numbers to save:
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 994
- Fire: 993
Health facilities in Zimbabwe’s urban areas like Harare and Bulawayo are generally better equipped than rural clinics. However, there’s a good chance medical equipment or medicines could be lacking. It’s best to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation, just in case you need more advanced treatment elsewhere.
Safety Tips
Urban Safety
Major cities in Zimbabwe are generally safe, but petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching can happen. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep your valuables discreet, and avoid carrying large sums of money or flashy items.
It’s a good practice to always use reliable transportation. In cities like Harare or Bulawayo, avoid unlicensed taxis and opt for registered services or ridesharing apps instead.
Rural Safety
Rural areas are usually quieter, but it’s smart to remain cautious. The wildlife in Zimbabwe can be dangerous, so if you’re visiting national parks or reserves, always listen to guides and follow park regulations.
Some areas in the countryside still have landmines from past conflicts, particularly near the borders with Mozambique and Zambia. Stick to well-trodden paths and avoid venturing off-road unless you’re with a knowledgeable guide.
Staying Safe While on Safari
Zimbabwe is famous for its safaris, but it’s important to follow some safety rules while observing wildlife:
- Always stay in your vehicle during game drives.
- Keep a safe distance from animals and never provoke them.
- Carry plenty of water and wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Follow your guide’s instructions at all times.
Money Safety
When it comes to money, Zimbabwe uses a mix of local currency and US dollars. Credit and debit cards are accepted at some places, but many local shops and restaurants only take cash.
ATMs can run out of cash quickly, so it’s wise to carry some US dollars with you. Make sure to exchange money only at official exchange centers or banks.
Transport Safety
When traveling between cities, buses and minibusses (known as kombis) are common. However, they can be overcrowded and safety standards are sometimes low. For longer trips, consider hiring a car or using private shuttles.
Road conditions can vary, especially after the rainy season. If you’re driving yourself, avoid night driving, as animals and pedestrians often cross streets in low light.
Respecting Local Customs
Zimbabweans are generally friendly and hospitable. Always greet people politely before starting a conversation, and avoid discussing political matters, as this can be a sensitive topic.
Lastly, dress appropriately, especially in rural areas. Skimpy clothing might not be well-received outside of tourist centers.
By following these health and safety tips, you’ll be ready for a great trip to Zimbabwe. Make sure to stay cautious, use your common sense, and enjoy all the amazing experiences you’ll have along the way.
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