Zimbabwe
Essential services
Cuts to power and water are common and can last for weeks. These disruptions also happen in cities. Mobile phone reception is also unreliable.
Landmines
Parts of the country have unexploded landmines, mainly in:
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
You’re 6 times more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Zimbabwe than in Australia. Traffic lights rarely function, leaving drivers to navigate intersections and road crossings by themselves.
Hazards include:
- dangerous driving habits
- poorly maintained urban and rural roads full of potholes
- poor street lighting
- 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.
Short-term foreign drivers must pay a vehicle charge. It includes a carbon tax, parking fees, road tolls and increased border tolls.
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:
More information:
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.
It can be dangerous 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
You must pay a departure tax for domestic flights. Pay in cash to the Civil Aviation Authority at the airport. Keep your receipt.
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:
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).
Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government