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Harare Travel Checklist

Harare Travel Checklist

Essential Preparations

Follow a chronological planning timeline to address all requirements.

Planning Phases for Harare

Organized steps for a smooth journey.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6 months beyond travel, 3 blank pages). Research and apply for e-Visa if needed.

Health Consultations

Review routine vaccinations. Consult doctor for travel vaccines (Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies) and malaria prophylaxis.

Flights & Accommodation

Purchase international airfare to Harare. Investigate and reserve major accommodations.

2

Month Before

Travel Insurance & Finances

Arrange comprehensive Travel insurance (medical, evacuation, cancellation). Inform bank of travel plans.

Driving Permit & Apps

Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan to drive. Download apps (Vaya, Bolt, Google Maps).

Documents & Copies

Make several copies (physical/digital) of all important documents (passport, visa, insurance, flight details). Store them separately.

3

Week Before

Confirmations & Home

Confirm all bookings (flights, hotels, tours). Arrange for house or pet sitting. Suspend mail or newspaper delivery.

Currency & Transfers

Obtain some United States Dollars (USD) in small denominations or confirm ACCESS to atms for USD/ZiG. Reconfirm airport transfers.

Packing & Essentials

Pack your main luggage, considering climate and activities. Pack any critical medications.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items for a smooth journey.

Bookings

  • International flights to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE).
  • Accommodation in Harare.
  • Specific excursions that need pre-booking, like visits to Wild Is Life Trust.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

insight enriches your trip.

Research Topics

  • Read about Zimbabwean history and culture.
  • Learn basic Shona phrases.
  • Review current economic and safety situations via government travel advisories.
  • Consider checking Travel rewards cards for future trips.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Secure your home ahead of leaving.

Home Security

  • Secure your home by locking all windows and doors.
  • Notify trusted contacts of your travel plans.
  • Leave an emergency contact list.
  • Suspend mail or newspaper delivery.

Financial Tasks

  • Pay any upcoming bills to avoid late fees.

Packing Smart

Important Note

Completing these preparations factors into a positive travel experience.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid a positive start to your Harare visit.

First steps upon arrival

  • 1
    Immigration

    Have passport, visa, and customs forms ready for immigration.

  • 2
    Currency

    Obtain ZiG or have USD small denominations for immediate purchases.

  • 3
    SIM Card

    Purchase a local SIM card at the airport for mobile connectivity.

Orientation and Transport

  • Orientation

    Familiarize yourself with immediate surroundings at your accommodation.

  • Local Advice

    Speak to hotel staff for local advice and directions.

  • Airport Transport

    Use pre-booked service, reputable taxi, or ride-sharing app for transfers.

Harare Arrival Details

Currency Exchange

If needed, exchange USD for ZiG for little local purchases.

Make initial purchases like water in bottles and snacks.

Connectivity

Ensure your local SIM card is active.

Confirm internet internet access for maps and talking to people.

First Itinerary Steps

Consider a short walk around your neighborhood.

Find nearby core services.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure from Harare with these final steps.

Souvenir and shipping considerations

  • Package fragile souvenirs attentively for transport.
  • Inquire about shipping services from the place of purchase for big items like stone sculptures.
  • Be aware of any CITES regulations for specific items of animal origin.
  • Keep receipts for any significant purchases for customs declaration.

VAT refund procedures

  • Zimbabwe currently does not feature a comprehensive VAT refund scheme for tourists on general purchases.
  • Assume you can't reclaim VAT on goods purchased.

Pre-departure timing recommendations

Plan making it to the airport generously.

Airport Check-in

  • International Flights:2-3 hours before departure
  • Traffic Delays:Factor in peak hour traffic

Return trip preparation

  • Confirm your return flight details and check for last-minute changes.
  • Ensure all essential documents are easily accessible.
  • This includes boarding pass and any necessary health certificates.
  • Pack any last-minute items.

Smooth Departure

A prepared departure assists with concluding your journey on a positive note.

Double-check documents and timings.

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