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Practical Information

Practical Information

Communication

You can purchase local SIM cards at airports or in town centers. Passport needed for purchase and registration.

Local SIMs have local call rates and data packages, usually cheaper than international roaming.

Connectivity

  • Zimbabwe: Econet, NetOne, Telecel.
  • Zambia: MTN, Airtel, Zamtel.
  • Most hotels, lodges, and many restaurants and cafes have Wi-Fi.
  • Quality and speed vary, sometimes inconsistent.

Stay Connected & Informed

Internet access, language considerations, and travel services.

Internet & Wi-Fi Access

Most hotels, lodges, and many restaurants and cafes offer Wi-Fi, often included. Quality and speed vary.

Connectivity Options

  • Wi-Fi in hotels and cafes.
  • Speed can be inconsistent.
  • Consider an ESIM from Airalo for mobile data.

Language & Phrases

Official languages are English in both Zimbabwe and Zambia. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Basic Greetings

  • Hello: Mhoroi (Shona).
  • Thank you: Tatenda (Shona).
  • Further language skills with Rosetta Stone.

Airport & Travel Services

Flight Compensation

  • Compensair: Compensation for flight delays, cancellations.
  • Service for denied boarding.
  • Priority Pass: Airport lounge access globally.
  • Independent airport lounge access.

Portable Wi-Fi Options

  • Stay connected with a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi.
  • Reliable internet on the go.
  • Good for multiple devices.
  • No local SIM card needed.

General Information

Local communication options and useful travel services for your trip.

Business Hours & Etiquette

Shops

Typically open 08:00 or 09:00 to 17:00 or 18:00 weekdays. Shorter hours Saturdays, some close Sundays.

Banks & ATMs

Open weekdays 08:00 or 08:30 to 15:00 or 15:30. Shorter hours Saturdays. ATMs in town centers, reliability varies. Carry cash.

Restaurants & Activities

Restaurants open for lunch and dinner, generally 11:00 or 12:00 to 21:00 or 22:00. Activity operators vary.

Victoria Falls National Park Hours

Opens roughly 06:00 to 18:00. Check seasonal changes for exact times during your visit.

Park Access Info

  • Zimbabwean side and Zambian side paths.
  • Seasonal variations.
  • Current opening and closing times.

Seasonal Activity Availability

Some smaller businesses or activities may have reduced hours or temporary closures during the low season (January, February).

Seasonal Activity Notes

  • White-water rafting.
  • Devil's Pool.
  • Availability water levels.

Public Holidays & Service Impact

Holidays Observed

  • Standard Christian holidays.
  • Christmas and Easter.
  • National independence days.

Service Impact

  • Limited services on public holidays.
  • Check specific dates for your year.
  • Business operations impacted.

Plan Your Day

Be aware of local business hours and seasonal changes, especially for specific activities.

Cultural Norms & Accessibility

Interacting respectfully with local communities and planning for accessibility.

Greeting Customs & Attire

A handshake is the common greeting. Polite to use a local greeting. Dress modestly when visiting villages or homes.

Cultural Courtesy

  • Handshake common.
  • Local phrases appreciated.
  • Modest dress for villages.

Photography Ethics & Privacy

Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals, especially in villages or markets.

Permission Notes

  • Ask permission for individuals.
  • Avoid children without parental consent.
  • Discreet near borders.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Tipping is appreciated for good service. Eating with hands is traditional for sadza or nshima.

Dining Etiquette

  • Tipping appreciated.
  • Eating with hands is traditional.
  • Cutlery common in restaurants.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Considerations

Same-sex sexual acts are illegal in both Zimbabwe and Zambia. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are not advised.

Important Notes

  • Same-sex acts illegal.
  • Public displays of affection not advised.
  • Discretion recommended for tourists.

Accessibility Information

Mobility Challenges

  • Infrastructure generally limited outside larger, newer hotels.
  • Pavements can be uneven or non-existent.
  • Independent navigation challenging for wheelchair users.

Accessible Sites

  • Some hotels and lodges have accessible rooms.
  • Main paths along Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe side) paved and relatively flat.
  • Zambian side paths are less developed and can challenges.

Assistance & Resources

Visual/Hearing Impairments

  • Specialized services are limited.
  • Travel with a companion advisable.
  • Support navigation and communication.

Seeking Information

  • Contact specific accommodations directly.
  • Inquire about their facilities.
  • Catering to specific needs before booking.

Cultural Awareness & Accessibility

Polite interactions and cultural sensitivity enrich your journey. Plan for accessibility needs.