This advice has been reviewed and reissued. It contains new information in the Summary and under Safety and Security: Civil Unrest/Political Tension (update), Money and Valuables (use of foreign currency) and Health Issues (medical shortages). The overall level of the advice has decreased.

Summary

Safety and Security

Terrorism

Terrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in our General Advice to Australian Travellers.

Civil Unrest/Political Tension

We strongly advise you reconsider your need to travel to Zimbabwe at this time due to politically motivated violence in some rural areas, the high level of criminal activity, the absence of the rule of law, and continuing economic hardship which could lead to civil unrest at any time. If you do decide to travel to Zimbabwe, you should exercise extreme caution.

The formation in February 2009 of an “inclusive government” comprising of the former ruling party, President Mugabe’s ZANU-PF, and the two MDC factions led by Prime Minister Tsvangirai and Deputy Prime Minister Mutambara has eased the political crisis. However the political situation remains unsettled and most Zimbabweans will continue to face severe hardship for some time until economic reforms are put in place. Political and social conditions remain potentially volatile.

Incidents of political violence are still occurring in some rural areas. Violence can escalate with little warning. Members of the security forces, so-called "war veterans" and youths associated with the ZANU-PF have in the past beaten and tortured MDC supporters and civil society activists. You should remain vigilant and avoid high-density (lower-income) urban areas because of the potential for the security situation to deteriorate.

You should avoid demonstrations, street rallies and any political gatherings as they may turn violent. Police and security forces are likely to respond violently and may not distinguish between demonstrators and bystanders. You should not photograph or video such events, as you may be targeted by security forces.

Residents and visitors can be arbitrarily detained or arrested.

The security situation could deteriorate quickly and with little warning and Australians could be caught up in violence directed at others. In these circumstances, departure options may be severely restricted. We encourage you to have your own contingency plan for independent departure if the situation warrants (see Local Travel below). You should ensure that your documentation remains up-to-date. Valid passports, visas and vehicle police clearances are essential should there be a need to depart Zimbabwe. The Australian Government's ability to provide consular services may be limited.

Monitor the media and other local information sources for information about possible new safety or security risks. Because of possible disruptions to the supply of goods and services, we recommend you have with you a supply of water and food to last several days, cash (US Dollar and/or South African Rand), medications and a basic first-aid kit. Ensure your vehicle has an adequate supply of fuel and ensure mobile phones are fully charged.

The country is experiencing food shortages, mass unemployment, shortages of foreign exchange, medical supplies and fuel, as well as increasingly unreliable services such as power, water and transport.

Unlawful occupations of farms, looting of crops, theft of cattle, poaching of game and violent acts against farmers, their families and workers are common in some areas of the country.

Crime

The widespread poor economic conditions are creating desperation, leading to a high level of crime. Muggings, bag snatching, carjacking and pickpocketing occur frequently, particularly in urban centres and tourist areas. Theft from vehicles is common. Armed robberies, carjackings, assaults and other violent crime also occur. Security risks are heightened at night, especially on city streets, and in or near parks and the city centres.

Tourists have been robbed and occasionally killed while visiting national parks. A comprehensive indemnity is often required by safari operators before they accept clients. To help minimise the security risks we suggest that you travel in groups, preferably with an organised tour group, and check the security situation before visiting national parks and farms, including game farms, lodges and hunting areas.

Due to the very high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, victims of violent crime, especially rape, are strongly encouraged to seek immediate medical assistance.

Commercial fraud scams are common in Zimbabwe. If you receive a message that sounds too good to be true, don't be fooled - it probably is. Our information on international financial scams gives details on the type of scams that might originate in Zimbabwe.

Local Travel

Roadblocks are common throughout Zimbabwe. Identification documents, including car registration and ownership papers, must be shown when requested by police. Drivers are often subjected to bribery demands. Roadblocks have also been used to prevent access to ZANU-PF "no go" areas by the opposition. If you are stopped at a roadblock and told not to go further, we strongly advise you to turn back.

Essential public services, including medical services, are very poor due to the state of the economy.

Due to safety concerns, Australian government officials have been advised to avoid using Air Zimbabwe.

There is a growing shortage of basic food commodities throughout Zimbabwe. Fuel shortages, sometimes severe, are common. Power outages and water cuts, sometimes lasting for weeks, are common everywhere, including the cities.

Zimbabwe applies vehicle charges (payable in foreign currency) for short-term foreign motorists. These charges include a new carbon tax, road tolls and increased border tolls.

Driving at night is very hazardous as roads, even in major cities, have potholes, are poorly lit, animals roam onto roads and vehicles sometimes operate without the use of lights. Dangerous driving habits contribute to the high rate of traffic accidents. For further advice, see our bulletin on Overseas Road Safety.

Public transport systems, including trains and commuter buses, can be dangerous due to overcrowding, poor maintenance and reckless driving.

Swimming in lakes and rivers is unsafe because of the possibility of being attacked by wildlife and the risk of catching water-borne diseases such as bilharzia (schistosomiasis).

Unexploded landmines are found in parts of the border area with Mozambique.

Airline Safety

Passengers on international flights to and from Australia are only allowed to carry a small amount of liquids (including aerosols and gels) in their carry-on baggage. You can find out more information at the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government website. Similar restrictions apply to flights in an increasing number of countries. Contact your airline for further information.

If you have concerns about the safety standards of a particular airline or aircraft, we recommend you research the airline or aircraft through organisations such as Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government has published fact sheets on security for air travellers. When staff at Australia's overseas missions are advised not to use particular airlines due to safety concerns, this will be included in the travel advisory.

The European Union (EU) has published a list of airlines that are subject to operating bans or restrictions within the EU. The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through its foreign assessment program focuses on a country's ability, not the individual airline, to adhere to international standards and recommended practices for aircraft operations and maintenance established by ICAO.

Due to safety concerns, Australian government officials have been advised to avoid using Air Zimbabwe.

Natural Disasters, Severe Weather and Climate

The rainy season is November to April when flooding may occur.

Information on natural disasters can be obtained from the Humanitarian Early Warning Service. If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities.

Wildlife

Australians are advised to respect wildlife laws and to maintain a safe and legal distance when observing wildlife, including marine animals and birds. You should only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators and closely follow park regulations and wardens' advice.

Money and Valuables

Before you go, organise a variety of ways to access your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers' cheques, cash, debit cards or cash cards. Australian currency and travellers' cheques are not accepted in many countries. Consult with your bank to find out which is the most appropriate currency to carry and whether your ATM card will work overseas. If you decide to travel to Zimbabwe, be prepared to bring in sufficient hard currency to cover all your costs during your visit, as you will be unable to withdraw cash from an ATM or bank, use travellers’ cheques, or your credit/debit card. Most shops in Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls have been licensed to charge in foreign currency, and usually trade in US Dollars or South African Rand. You will need to bring in notes in small denominations (i.e. US $1, $5, $10), as small change is rarely available.

Make two photocopies of valuables such as your passport, tickets, visas and travellers' cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.

While travelling, don't carry too much cash and remember that expensive watches, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves.

As a sensible precaution against luggage tampering, including theft, lock your luggage. Information on luggage safety is available from Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to report a lost or stolen passport. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.

You are required to pay an additional fee to have a lost or stolen passport replaced. In some cases, the Government may also restrict the length of validity or type of replacement passports.

For Parents

For general information and tips on travelling with children see our Travelling Parents brochure.

If you are planning on placing your children in schools or childcare facilities overseas we encourage you to research the standards of security, care and staff training within those establishments. You should exercise the same precautions you would take before placing children into schools or childcare facilities in Australia.

Ideas on how to select childcare providers are available from the smartraveller Children's Issues page, Child Wise and the National Childcare Accreditation Council.

Local Laws

When you are in Zimbabwe, be aware that local laws and penalties, including ones that appear harsh by Australian standards, do apply to you. If you are arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you but we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Information on what Australian consular officers can and cannot do to help Australians in trouble overseas is available from the Consular Services Charter.

The penalties for possession, manufacture or trafficking of illegal drugs, including marijuana, are severe and include lengthy imprisonment and heavy fines.

Murder, treason, banditry, sabotage and terrorism are punishable by the death penalty.

The act of sodomy is illegal in Zimbabwe and is punishable by up to one year's imprisonment and/or a fine. Juvenile male offenders may be subject to corporal punishment.

You should avoid engaging in any political activity, or in activities which could be construed as such, including political discussions in public places. An open hand is the political symbol of the main opposition political party and a friendly wave may therefore be misinterpreted as a provocative gesture. It is also a criminal offence in Zimbabwe to make any derogatory or insulting comments about President Mugabe. Any person making such comments is liable to arrest and prosecution.

It is illegal to photograph around military establishments, government offices, the President's Residence (State House) and airports without special permission of the Ministry of Information.

It is an offence to continue driving when the President's motorcade goes past, no matter which side of the road you are on. You should stop your car even if you are travelling in the opposite direction on a dual carriageway.

Some Australian criminal laws, such as those relating to money laundering, bribery of foreign public officials, terrorism and child sex tourism, apply to Australians overseas. Australians who commit these offences while overseas may be prosecuted in Australia.

Australian authorities are committed to combating sexual exploitation of children by Australians overseas. Australians may be prosecuted at home under Australian child sex tourism laws. These laws provide severe penalties of up to 17 years imprisonment for Australians who engage in sexual activity with children under 16 while outside of Australia.

Information for Dual Nationals

Zimbabwe does not recognise dual nationality. This may limit the ability of Australian officials to provide consular assistance to Australian/Zimbabwean dual nationals who have been arrested or detained.

For persons over the age of 18, holding a Zimbabwean and a second nationality passport is prohibited. Heavy penalties may apply if caught.

Our Travel Information for Dual Nationals brochure contains further information for dual nationals.

Entry and Exit Requirements

Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Zimbabwe for the most up to date information.

US dollars hard currency cash (in very small denominations) may be required for visa and departure tax fees.

Journalists working without proper accreditation are liable to arrest, detention and possible deportation.

A valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is required for all passengers over one year of age who arrive from an infected yellow fever area/country. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides a list of yellow fever countries.

Make sure your passport has at least six months' validity and carry copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.

Health Issues

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed cases of H1N1 Influenza 09 in a number of countries throughout the world. For a list of these countries, visit the WHO website. For further information and advice to Australians, including on possible quarantine measures overseas, see our travel bulletin on H1N1 Influenza 09.

We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. The Australian Government will not pay for a traveller's medical expenses overseas or medical evacuation costs.

Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about preventive measures, immunisations (including booster doses of childhood vaccinations) and disease outbreaks overseas. The WHO website provides information for travellers and our Travelling Well brochure also provides useful tips for travelling with medicines and staying healthy while overseas.

Health services in Zimbabwe are extremely poor. Public hospitals in Harare and other towns are experiencing shortages of staff, water, power, medicines and equipment. They are unlikely to offer treatment of certain illnesses or offer assistance in an accident or emergency.. Hygiene is very poor. The few private hospitals in Harare are also suffering from staff and resources limitations and are likely to require payments of up to US$2000 in cash notes before a patient is admitted.

Medical facilities outside Harare and Bulawayo are limited. Medical supplies throughout Zimbabwe are very limited and some prescription medicines are not available (recently insulin) or are very expensive. In the event of a serious accident or illness, a medical evacuation to South Africa would be necessary, costing up to $A25,000.

Essential public services, including medical services, have been disrupted due to the state of the economy.

A cholera outbreak has spread to most parts of the country, including the southern and western suburbs of Harare. The breakdown of Harare’s mains water system has compounded the problem. We advise you to drink water only from known safe sources (eg bottled, chlorinated or boiled water) and to maintain strict hygiene standards while travelling in Zimbabwe. Further advice on cholera can be found on the World Health Organization (WHO) website.

Malaria is a risk in all areas except Harare and Bulawayo. Other mosquito-borne diseases (including filariasis) are also prevalent in Zimbabwe. We encourage you to take prophylaxis against malaria and take precautions to avoid being bitten by insects, including using an insect repellent at all times.

Water-borne, food-borne and other infectious diseases (including cholera, hepatitis, tuberculosis, measles, typhoid and rabies) are prevalent, with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time. We advise you to boil all drinking water or drink bottled water, and avoid ice cubes and raw and undercooked food. Do not swim in fresh water to avoid exposure to diseases such as schistosomiasis (bilharzia). Seek medical advice if you have a fever or are suffering from diarrhoea.

The rate of HIV/AIDS infection in Zimbabwe is very high. You should exercise appropriate precautions if engaging in activities that expose you to risk of infection.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has confirmed cases of avian influenza in birds in a number of countries throughout the world. For a list of these countries, visit the OIE website. For information on our advice to Australians on how to reduce the risk of infection and on Australian Government precautions see our travel bulletin on avian influenza.

Where to Get Help

In Zimbabwe, you can obtain consular assistance from the:

Australian Embassy
1 Green Close
Borrowdale, Harare, Zimbabwe
Telephone: (263 4) 852 471
Facsimile: (263 4) 870 566
E-mail address: zimbabwe.embassy@dfat.gov.au
Website: http://www.zimbabwe.embassy.gov.au

If you are travelling to Zimbabwe, whatever the reason and however long you'll be there, we encourage you to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. You can register online or in person at any Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate. The information you provide will help us to contact you in an emergency - whether it is a natural disaster, civil disturbance or a family issue.

In a consular emergency if you are unable to contact the Embassy you can contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or 1300 555 135 within Australia.

In Australia, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra may be contacted on (02) 6261 3305.