Zimbabwe

The security situation is volatile. Unemployment is high, the economy is unstable and there is a higher crime rate.

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

Essential services such as power, water and transport are unreliable. 

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

Civil unrest and political tension may increase leading up to elections in 2023. Avoid political activity and any activities that could be seen as political, such as:

• political discussion or commentary in public places
• political protests
• large public gatherings

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

During periods of unrest:

• monitor the media for planned or possible unrest
• avoid affected areas
• follow advice from local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations 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
• 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.

Other crime

Theft from vehicles is common.

Thieves target cars stopped at intersections. In Harare, remain alert on the way to 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

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.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

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.

If you visit Victoria Falls, carry your passport in a waterproof bag. Authorities may not accept a damaged passport.

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:

• 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

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers

• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
• COVID-19 vaccines (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Zimbabwe. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• how much you'll take
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medicine

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a risk in Zimbabwe.

To protect yourself and others from illness:

• practise good hygiene
• stay home if you’re unwell
• self-quarantine as soon as you can if you think you have symptoms of COVID-19.

You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.

More information:

• COVID-19 Updates (Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Childcare)
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health and Aged Care)

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.

Other health risks

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

• bilharzia (schistosomiasis)
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• tuberculosis
• measles
• rabies

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• keep your vaccinations up to date
• 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.

Don't swim in fresh water to avoid waterborne diseases.

Get medical help if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities

Health services are poor.

Medical facilities are generally of a poor standard. Outside of Harare and Bulawayo facilities are even more limited. Some medical supplies and prescription medicine may not be available.

Public hospitals in Harare and in 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 will need to pay up-front before receiving treatment, even in an emergency.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

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. 

You need permission from the Ministry of Information to photograph:

• airports
• military establishments
• government offices
• the President's residence
• security forces

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 in Zimbabwe. 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. Security is strict. Don't look through the gates or hang around outside the walls.

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

More information:

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

• Doing business

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and and respecting customs

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

Australian-Zimbabwean dual citizens who are arrested or detained may not get consular help from Australian officials.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Visas

You need a visa to enter Zimbabwe. 30 day tourist visas are being issued on arrival.

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 its 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

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.

Border measures

Travellers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and have valid vaccination certificates to prove this aren't required to present proof of a COVID-19 (PCR) test.

Travellers without certificates proving full vaccination will be required to undergo a COVID-19 (PCR) test, no more than 48 hours from the time of their departure for Zimbabwe.

You’re required to use an approved laboratory through the Trusted Travel platform. If you arrive with results from a non-Trusted Travel approved laboratory you'll be required to upload a copy on the Global Haven system.

If you arrive with a fake COVID-19 certificate you could be jailed.

Travellers who're not fully vaccinated and don't present a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test will be denied entry into Zimbabwe. 

You should contact your nearest Zimbabwean embassy and relevant airlines for requirements. Travellers are encouraged to check the airline’s guidelines carefully when arranging to travel to Zimbabwe.

Departing Zimbabwe

You should check with your travel provider or airline for any COVID-19 requirements prior to departure. 

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate if you're arriving from a country with 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 even deported.

Travel with children

Strict rules apply to a child aged under 18 years travelling through South Africa. Check our travel advice for South Africa.

More information:

• Advice for people travelling with children

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport isn't valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

The only legal tender in Zimbabwe is the Zimbabwe Dollar ($ZWL). However, it's possible to transact using $US at the official exchange rate. Prices will mainly be listed in $ZWL. Check before making a transaction as the $ symbol can be used for both currencies.
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 card.
Take enough cash to cover your stay. It is illegal to change money anywhere except at officially licensed banks and bureaux de change. If possible, take small denominations. Vendors may be unable to provide change if you pay in $US.

Check if your hotels and other providers will accept cards, especially outside of Harare.

It's illegal to leave Zimbabwe with more than $US 2000 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

Local restrictions

COVID-19 restrictions apply and are subject to change. Gatherings must comply with WHO COVID-19 protocols. Face masks must be worn in public. Follow the advice of local authorities.

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 in Zimbabwe, you need both:

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

Get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

Road travel is very dangerous in Zimbabwe. Traffic lights rarely function, leaving drivers to navigate intersections and road crossings by themselves.

Hazards include:

• dangerous driving habits
• poorly maintained roads full of potholes in both city and country areas
• poor or no street lighting or signage
• unlit vehicles at night
• animals on roads

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

Driving laws

All vehicles must carry:

• 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.

If you plan to drive:

• check your insurance covers you and your vehicle
• learn local traffic laws and practices
• ask about fuel availability and road conditions, such as security risks and road closures

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
• 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

If you plan to drive to Mozambique:

• read our travel advice for Mozambique
• ask locally about the security situation in provinces close to Zimbabwe

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcades

By law, all vehicles must stop when the President's motorcade goes past. You must stop even if you're on the opposite side of the road on a dual carriageway.

Motorcades usually begin with a single police motorcycle with flashing lights. Security forces sometimes intimidate or assault motorists who don't stop 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 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, including trains and buses, as 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

Airlines can change or cancel flights at short notice. You can book charter flights through private companies.

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

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

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.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help 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
Twitter: @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