Zimbabwe

The security situation can be unpredictable. Unemployment is high, the economy is unstable, and the high crime rate is increasing.

Sometimes there are shortages of medical supplies, basic goods and food.

Essential services such as power, water and transport are unreliable. There are frequent and sometimes long power outages. Water rationing occurs in some parts of the country.

In some areas of Zimbabwe, issues causing unrest include:

• land confiscation
• people forced off their land
• crop looting
• cattle theft
• wildlife poaching
• violence against farmers, their families and workers

Demonstrations and protests can be volatile and may turn violent quickly. Avoid activities that could be considered political including political discussions in public places and online. Stay away from protests and demonstrations. 

During periods of unrest:

• monitor the media for potential demonstrations or protests
• avoid affected areas
• follow advice from local authorities

More information:

• Protests and civil unrest

There's a high risk of theft and other crime.

Petty crime is common, especially in urban and tourist areas. Dangers include:

• mugging
• bag-snatching
• carjacking
• pickpocketing

Violent crimes, such as armed robbery and assault, also occur. People known to be storing large sums of cash are sometimes targeted. 

The risk of crime increases:

• at night
• on city streets and in city centres
• at street intersections
• near bridges
• around parks
• in open fields
• when leaving banks and ATMs.

Robberies may happen during the day, particularly in crowded urban areas.

To help protect yourself from violent crime:

• avoid carrying bags that are easy to snatch
• always lock doors, windows and gates at your accommodation
• travel with other people, or preferably a tour group
• avoid walking after dark
• don't carry or display large amounts of cash

Get immediate medical help if you're a victim of violent crime, especially sexual assault. The risk of HIV/AIDS is high, and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) HIV medication needs to be taken within 72 hours of the incident for it to be effective.

Drink spiking 

Methanol poisoning

Kidnapping

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information, including advice on how to reduce your risk of being kidnapped:

• Kidnapping

Other crime

Theft from vehicles is common.

Thieves target cars stopped at intersections. In Harare, remain alert on the way to and from the airport and along Churchill, Borrowdale, and Masvingo-Beitbridge roads.

Thieves also slash the tyres of cars parked or stopped in traffic. When someone stops to change their tyre, thieves rob them.

You could be robbed while visiting national parks. Safari operators may ask you to show proof of indemnity insurance.

Get updates on the security situation before you visit:

• national parks
• farms, game farms, lodges and hunting areas

Lodges and camps in national parks can be isolated and remote. Options to travel to them may be limited.

If travelling by car:

• keep your doors locked, windows up and valuables hidden, even when moving
• be aware of people near your vehicle
• stop as little as possible, approach red lights slowly and plan ahead when you approach residential gates
• leave road space in front of your car in case you need to move away quickly

Scams and fraud

Commercial fraud, money transfer and employment scams are increasing.

More information:

• Scams

Limited police services

Police have limited resources, including vehicles and fuel. They may ask to be driven from a police station to a crime scene.

Police processes can be slow and complicated when recovering property or prosecuting offenders.

Cyber security

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. 

If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

More information:

• Terrorism

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This is important for adventure activities, such as rafting, bungee jumping and other adventure sports.

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• see if your operator is registered
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Carry your passport in a waterproof bag. Authorities may not accept a damaged passport.

Respect wildlife laws and keep a safe and legal distance when watching wildlife. Only use reputable guides or tour operators. Follow park regulations and warden’s advice.

Swimming in lakes and rivers is unsafe.

You risk:

• attacks by wildlife
• catching waterborne diseases, such as bilharzia (schistosomiasis), (see 'Health')

Zimbabwe experiences severe weather. 

The rainy season is from November to April. Flooding can occur.

If there's a natural disaster you should:

• prepare for disruptions to services
• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources
• register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts
• do what local authorities say
• keep in touch with your friends and family

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria is a risk everywhere except in Harare and Bulawayo.

Mosquitoes also spread other diseases, including filariasis.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

HIV/AIDS

The rate of HIV/AIDS infection is high.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that put you at risk of infection.

If you’re the victim of a violent crime, including rape, see a doctor immediately.

Other health risks

Serious outbreaks of other waterborne, foodborne and infectious diseases sometimes occur, including:

• bilharzia (schistosomiasis)
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• tuberculosis
• measles
• rabies
• cholera
• COVID-19
• mpox

Water shortages have driven some people to use unsafe water sources.

To protect yourself from illness:

• keep your vaccinations up to date (Immunisation for travel)
• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, get medical help straight away.

To avoid waterborne diseases, don't swim in freshwater lakes or rivers.

Get medical help if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

There’s no agreement between Australia and Zimbabwe for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

Health services are poor.

Medical facilities are generally of a poor standard. Some private medical facilities in the larger cities are of average standard. Outside of Harare and Bulawayo, facilities are even more limited. Some medical supplies and prescription medications may not be available.

Public hospitals in Harare and other towns have shortages of:

• staff
• water
• power
• medicine
• equipment

They may not treat patients with certain illnesses. They may not be able to help in an accident or emergency.

You may need to pay up-front before receiving treatment, even in an emergency.

You may need to be evacuated if you become seriously ill or injured. 

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Drugs

Penalties are severe for carrying, making or dealing in illegal drugs, including marijuana.

You may face lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

By law, you must always carry ID, such as a copy of your passport.

You may have to show these documents if you're stopped by police or immigration officials.

You face the death penalty for:

• murder
• treason
• banditry
• sabotage
• terrorism

Juvenile offenders may get corporal punishment.

In Zimbabwe, it's illegal to:

• kill, capture or trade a protected animal, or its parts, without a licence
• wear clothing with camouflage designs if you're a civilian
• have or trade counterfeit or pirated goods, or pornographic material
• have precious or semi-precious stones without paperwork

Same-sex relationships are illegal. 

It's illegal to take photos of sensitive locations. You need permission from the Ministry of Information to photograph:

• airports
• military establishments
• government offices
• the President’s residence
• political party offices
• embassies
• security forces

It's also illegal to photograph demonstrations and protests.

By law, you can't take part in political activities, or activities that authorities could interpret as political.

You can't:

• discuss politics in public places
• make derogatory or insulting comments about the President
• carry material that attacks the President's office
• display or distribute banned books
• display political loyalty such as slogans or images from Zimbabwean political parties
• continue driving when the President's motorcade goes past. See Travel

An open hand is the symbol of a main political party. Authorities could think a friendly wave is deliberate political activity. 

The President's official residence is at State House, Chancellor Avenue, The Avenues, Harare. The roads around the residence are closed between 6pm and 6am. Do not rely on GPS navigation around this area. Security is strict. Don't look through the gates or hang around outside the walls.

If you plan to do business, research local laws and regulations, including for land and business ownership.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers
• Doing business

Zimbabwe doesn't have a clear policy regarding dual nationals.

Australian-Zimbabwean dual nationals who are arrested or detained may not be able to obtain consular help from Australian officials.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Visas

You need a visa to enter Zimbabwe. A 30-day tourist visa (single or multiple entry) is available on arrival for a fee. You can apply for 2 consecutive extensions from within Zimbabwe (maximum stay is 90-days) at any Zimbabwean Department of Immigration Office.

Don't overstay a visa. Penalties (including jail) may apply. To extend a visa on arrival, apply online through the Department of Immigration or in person at an immigration office. Allow enough time for an extension review.

You can also apply for a double-entry tourist visa, valid for 30 days from each entry date.

Alternatively, you may be eligible for a KAZA UniVisa that allows multiple entries in 30 days:

• between Zimbabwe and Zambia
• to Botswana for day trips

You can get a KAZA UniVisa at:

• Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls airports
• Victoria Falls land border (Zambia)
• Kazungula land border (Zambia/Botswana)
• A KAZA UniVisa can't be extended. Its availability can change at short notice.

Other visas and permits

You must apply for a permit before arriving in Zimbabwe to:

• live
• work
• study
• invest
• do business

Volunteering and missionary activities are considered work. You will require a business visa to engage in these activities.

The Zimbabwe Chief Immigration Officer must approve the permit.

Be careful using local migration agents. It's better to get visas, and work permits yourself.

To arrange a visa or work permit, apply:

• on the Department of Immigration website
• through your sponsor
• at your nearest Zimbabwean Department of Immigration office

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact an embassy or consulate of Zimbabwe for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Your options for leaving Zimbabwe may be limited if security deteriorates quickly. Keep your documents up to date. You'll need a valid passport, visa, and vehicle police clearance if leaving via a land border.

Health screening

As part of health screening measures, you may have your temperature checked at points of entry into Zimbabwe.

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate if you're arriving from a country with yellow fever. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Entry stamp

When you arrive, check you get a legible entry stamp in your passport. Immigration officials will ask to see it when you leave.

Travel with an emergency travel document

If you're using an emergency travel document, you may need to show a police report to prove your passport was lost or stolen.

Working as a journalist

You must have proper accreditation to work as a journalist. Without this, you can be arrested and detained or deported.

Travel via South Africa

Strict rules apply to children aged under 18 years travelling through South Africa. South African authorities do not accept provisional travel documents. They do accept Australian emergency passports. Check our travel advice for South Africa.  

More information:

• Advice for people travelling with children

Validity

Ensure you have 3 blank pages in your passport in case you need to enter Zimbabwe and exit through one of the neighbouring countries or if you need to leave at short notice. 

If travelling to multiple African countries on one trip, ensure you have enough blank pages to accommodate the requirements of all countries you plan to visit.

Lost or stolen passport 

Passport with 'X’ gender identifier

Zimbabwe’s economic situation is unpredictable. In April 2024, Zimbabwe announced the introduction of a new currency, Zimbabwe Gold ($ZWG), to replace the Zimbabwe dollar ($ZWL). 

The US dollar is widely accepted, but this could change without notice. Prices can be listed in either currency. Check before making a transaction, as the $ symbol can be used for both currencies. The exchange rate between the local currency and USD can change quickly. Most stores and businesses will not accept US banknotes issued before 2006.

Zimbabwe is experiencing a cash crisis. Authorities have introduced restrictions. You may not be able to withdraw cash from an ATM with an international debit/credit card. International debit/credit cards are not widely accepted. Bank fees are high, including when withdrawing from ATMs. ATMs are available in the main cities but may not accept international cards.

Take enough cash to cover your stay. Changing money anywhere except at officially licensed banks and bureaux de change is illegal. If possible, carry small denominations. Most vendors prefer $US in cash and may be unable to provide change if you pay in $US.

Check if your hotels and other providers (including medical providers) will accept international credit cards. Many businesses only have point-of-sale machines that accept local credit and debit cards. Many companies charge a fee to use a credit card.

It's illegal to leave Zimbabwe with more than $US2,000 in cash or the same amount in a different currency. The amount can change with little or no notice.

More information:

• Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe

Essential services

Disruptions to power and water are common and can last for weeks, including in cities. Mobile phone reception and data can also be unreliable.

Landmines

Parts of the country have unexploded landmines, mainly in:

• the border area with Mozambique
• the Lupane District in Matabeleland North Province

The Zimbabwe Government has a national program to locate and remove landmines.

Stick to main roads and paths in areas where landmines could exist.

Driving permit

To drive you need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

Road travel is very dangerous. 

Hazards include:

• traffic lights which often don't work
• crowded intersections
• reckless and dangerous driving habits
• poorly maintained roads full of potholes in both city and country areas
• unmarked speed humps
• poorly maintained vehicles, including a high number of commuter vans overburdened and unroadworthy by Australian standards
• roadblocks requiring detours
• poor or no street lighting or signage
• unlit or poorly lit vehicles at night
• animals on roads

Flash flooding during the rainy season can make roads, including in major cities, impassable from November to March.

Driving laws

All vehicles must carry the following:

• a fire extinguisher
• 2 metallic emergency triangles with white reflective stickers on the front and red reflective stickers on the back
• a spare wheel
• wheel spanner
• a jack

If your vehicle isn't fully equipped, authorities could fine you.

It's illegal to use a phone without a hands-free device when driving.

Local driving

Fuel shortages can occur. Keep your tank topped up and carry sufficient fuel for long journeys. You may need to check if international credit/debit cards will be accepted when purchasing fuel.

If you plan to drive:

• check your insurance covers you and your vehicle
• learn local traffic laws and practices
• ask locally about fuel availability and road conditions, such as security risks and road closures not only in Zimbabwe but in any bordering provinces of neighbouring countries that you may cross into

If you hire a vehicle, make sure it's equipped with all compulsory safety equipment.

While driving:

• take a mobile phone or another communication device with you
• carry a medical kit
• always be alert to possible hazards
• avoid travelling on roads outside of major centres at night due to limited lighting and poor road conditions
• avoid rural roads at night
• do what local authorities say, including at roadblocks

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcades

By law, all vehicles must stop and pull over when an official motorcade goes past. You must stop even if you're on the opposite side of the road on a dual carriageway.

Security forces sometimes intimidate motorists who don't abide with this requirement or pull over in time.

Roadblocks

Police roadblocks can appear with little warning. If asked, you must show police your identification documents, car registration and ownership papers.

Police may also ask to see your car's safety equipment.

Police may ask drivers to pay on-the-spot fines or a bribe. If you pay a bribe, they could demand more.

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you for the vehicle you intend to ride. You might need extra cover for an accident on a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Use only registered taxis and limousines. If possible, book them through your accommodation.

Public transport

Avoid using public transport, buses and commuter buses (combis). They present safety concerns due to overcrowding, poor maintenance and reckless driving.

Boat travel

Accidents have occurred on passenger ferries and boats.

Use transport providers with a good reputation.

Always wear a life jacket, even if others don't.

Air travel

The European Union (EU) has banned Air Zimbabwe flights to the EU. Australian Embassy staff are not permitted to use Air Zimbabwe for official travel except in exceptional circumstances.

Check Zimbabwe's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Hunting

Zimbabwe has hunting rules.

Risks include landmines in some areas.

If you plan to do guided hunting, engage an operator with a good reputation and a valid hunting licence.

Before you hunt, research the rules and requirements of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 999.

Medical emergencies

Call 999 or go to a hospital.

Police

Call 999 or Harare Central Police Station on (0242) 777 777 or visit the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Harare. The Australian Embassy in Harare is open to the public by appointment only. 

Australian Embassy, Harare

1 Green Close
Borrowdale, Harare, Zimbabwe

Phone: +263 242 853 235 55
Email: zimbabwe.embassy@dfat.gov.au
Website: zimbabwe.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australian Embassy, Zimbabwe
X: @AusEmbZim

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia