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Useful Information

IS ZIMBABWE SAFE TO TRAVEL?

YES! Zimbabwe is still a safe country to travel to. Like when travelling to most countries as a tourist, Zimbabwe requires travelers to stay alert and use their common sense.

Natureways is located in rural Zimbabwe away from all major cities and politics. Safety of our clients is our utmost priority on and off the Zambezi River.

WHAT TO BRING?

Natureways recommends you pack the following for your Safari:

  • Personal Toiletries & Bath Towel (on Explorer Safaris)
  • Torch or flashlight and extra batteries
  • Film and spare camera batteries
  • Binoculars
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Dry bags for personal items.
  • Money for National Parks Fees as well as identification documents where relevant.

Please bear in mind that Explorer Safaris are limited to a maximum of 10kg per person preferably packed in a soft duffel bag.

WHAT CLOTHING TO BRING?

Try and bring clothing which are of neutral colours such as brown, green or khaki. Natureways recommends the below list of basic clothing essentials:

  • Sunglasses
  • Swimming/bathing costume
  • Shorts and T-shirts (preferably neutral colours)
  • Shirts (including a long sleeved one for sun protection)
  • Long trousers for the evening
  • Skirts or shorts for during the day
  • Canvas shoes or rafting sandals
  • Walking boots/track shoes (a comfortable pair of hiking shoes for those on a walking safari)
  • Hat with a wide brim
  • Jacket or sweater for the evenings
  • A kikoi (or sarong) to cover your legs to protect them from the sun
  • Light water-proofs for summer months (November-April)
  • Socks for winter nights
  •  Warm clothes to sleep in for winter nights
  • You are welcome to bring your own water bottles/hydration packs.

IS THERE A MAXIMUM LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE?

If you are on one of our Explorer Safaris there is a maximum luggage allowance of 10kgs per person, however excess luggage can be locked away at our Kariba office. Odyssey Safaris do not have a luggage restriction.

 

Please remember most airlines limit the amount of luggage that you can check in and carry on board so please check with your relevant airlines. If travelling in a charter aircraft there are often weight restrictions, please check with the charter company or if you would like Natureways to book your charter flight we will be happy to inform you of the weight allowed.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER AND TEMPERATURES LIKE?

Although located in the tropics, temperate conditions prevail all year, as the climate is moderated by altitude and the inland position of Zimbabwe. The seasons have a marked effect on the flora and fauna and whether you are looking for the Big Five or are an avid birder there is always something for everyone.

Dry Season – April to October
Rainy Season – November to March

The temperatures can change considerably throughout the year and will vary from 25oC to 30oC (77oF to 86oF) from April to September. In other months temperatures may reach between 30oC to 40oC (86oF to 104oF). In the winter, June to September, night time temperatures can fall dramatically so we advise warmer clothing!

DO I NEED INSURANCE?

All Natureways guests must have fully comprehensive insurance cover, including full medical, emergency medical air evacuation and repatriation cover. Please make sure that your belongings are adequately insured before you go on Safari. Natureways, its agents and associates cannot be held responsible or liable for loss, damage, or theft of personal luggage and belongings, nor can they be held liable for personal injury, accident or illness. We also advise that you take out insurance on any valuable items (i.e. cameras, binoculars, etc.) that you may be carrying and that you take these on as carry on luggage when you board your flights.

MONEY, CURRENCY & CREDIT CARDS?

Zimbabwe uses United States Dollars and now a form of local currency called Zimbabwe Dollars (please note Zimbabwe Dollars cannot be used/changed outside of Zimbabwe). Most places in Zimbabwe do have credit and debit card facilities, most widely accepted is VISA & MasterCard. Zimbabwe banks do not accept travellers cheques of any kind.

Zimbabwe is experiencing a cash shortage, so bring enough cash with you for the duration of your holiday as you will not be able to withdraw from ATM machines or banks. We would recommend bringing small donominations in USD.

Guests will have to pay National Parks Fees before starting their Safaris, cash is the only form of payment (please contact Natureways to find out the amount required).

TRANSPORT?

Guests on either an Odyssey or Explorer Safari can fly into Kariba Town or for those who want to get the most out of their Safari, flights can be chartered from numerous locations into Mana Pools or Chirundu. Please feel free to contact us for more information or if you would like us to book you a flight.

Guests can drive themselves to Kariba or Mana Pools depending on where your Safari is starting from (see our Directions). Our Explorer Safaris include road transfers from Kariba town to the start of your safari as well as a transfer back to Kariba town at the end of your safari, these transfers will be done in open 4×4 safari vehicles.

Natureways Safaris can organise any transfers, charter flights or accommodation you may require during your stay in Zimbabwe.