Zimbabwe
A structured approach to pre-trip planning covers aspects for your journey.
A structured approach to pre-trip planning covers aspects for your journey.
Confirm your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Zimbabwe.
Research visa requirements for your nationality. If your country falls under Category C (requiring a visa in advance), apply for it early. Consider applying for an e-visa even if you qualify for a visa on arrival (Category B) to streamline border procedures.
Book your international flights to Zimbabwe (likely connecting via Johannesburg, South Africa, or Addis Ababa, Ethiopia). Booking in advance often secures better prices.
Consult a travel health professional. Discuss necessary and recommended vaccinations (e.g., Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid) and obtain advice on malaria prophylaxis, especially if visiting other regions of Zimbabwe like Hwange or Victoria Falls.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Confirm it covers medical emergencies, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation/interruption, and loss of baggage.
Book your accommodation in Bulawayo and any major tours (e.g., Matobo Hills safari). This holds particular importance if traveling during the high season.
Arrange any domestic flights or long-distance bus/train transport within Zimbabwe if applicable (e.g., to Victoria Falls or Hwange).
If you plan to self-drive, obtain an International Driving Permit.
Complete any required vaccinations as advised by your travel doctor.
Securing these items in advance is prudent.
Prior research enriches your journey.
Final steps before you go.
Initiate your visa application and vaccination schedule at least three months before your trip. This allows ample time for processing and safeguards your health.
A smooth arrival establishes a positive tone for your trip. This checklist guides your initial steps upon landing in Bulawayo, from immigration to reaching your accommodation.
Proceed through immigration. Have your passport, visa (if obtained in advance), completed arrival card, and any required health certificates (e.g., Yellow Fever) ready.
If you qualify for a visa on arrival, you will pay the requisite fee at the immigration counter. Have exact US Dollar cash ready.
Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim area.
Locate your reputable taxi or pre-arranged transfer service outside the terminal. Confirm the driver and vehicle details if pre-booked.
Once at your accommodation, ask the staff for local safety advice, reliable taxi numbers, directions to nearby amenities (supermarkets, restaurants), and current information on local conditions. This initial briefing can prove highly valuable.
Exchange a small amount of USD to Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) if you need it for very small local purchases. US Dollars are widely accepted and often preferred for most tourist transactions.
It proves useful to have small USD denominations.
Purchase a local SIM card (e.g., Econet) at the airport or in the city.
This enables you to stay connected for calls and internet.
Use transfers pre-booked with your hotel or guesthouse for convenience and peace of mind.
Utilize licensed taxis available at the airport. Always agree on the fare before starting the journey. If using Vaya or Hwindi, confirm the app's details match the driver and vehicle before entering. Note that app availability at the airport can be inconsistent.
Prior to airport departure, confirm a reliable communication method. A local SIM card or pre-arranged transport contact proves valuable.
A structured approach to departure makes for a smooth conclusion to your trip.
Reconfirm your flight or bus departure time the day before your departure. This keeps you informed about schedule changes and aids in planning your journey to the airport or station.
