Make sure you have your personal documents such as your passport and visa at all times. The answer is an unequivocal: ‘YES!' Abandoned unlit heavy goods vehicles, cyclists without lights, pedestrians and stray livestock are particular hazards. Make sure you have your personal documents such as your passport and visa at all times. Traffic lights are often out of action. You can drive in Zimbabwe using a full UK driving licence for up to 12 months. You must obey police signals, stop at roadblocks and toll-gates and produce identification if asked to do so. Collect witness details and make sure you get a copy of the police report for your insurers or the car hire company. If driving your own car make sure you have an emergency number with you before you set off. Zimbabwe will give you breathtaking views, unique stone sculptures, falls, rivers and many more. For that reason we recommend you don’t drink and drive. If you are towing a vehicle in Zimbabwe you must display a white T sign on the right hand side of the towed item’s front and a red T sign on the right hand side of its rear. You’ll also require a police vehicle clearance certificate (temporary import permit) if you’re bringing in a non-Zimbabwe registered vehicle. If you see the motorcade, pull off the road or onto the side of the road if this isn’t possible. The Traffic Safety Council reports there are 40-50 vehicle accidents in Harare every night. Road Conditions and Safety: Driving in Zimbabwe is hazardous. If you are involved in an accident you needn’t call the police if there is only minor damage and no injuries. Level crossings are poorly marked, resulting in numerous accidents. Taxis are available, but be wary as drivers might jack up prices for tourists. Be careful about stopping at lay-bys, particularly in the Beitbridge area, as there have been incidents of cars being robbed and occupants attacked. You must self-isolate when you enter the UK from any foreign country except Ireland, unless you have a valid exemption. Traveling in Zimbabwe: The Issues Cash Shortages. You should avoid all demonstrations and rallies. Things have calmed down lately but it's still worth checking FCO advice for the latest information. If you can refuse safely you should do so as paying simply perpetuates the problem. Driving Rules in Zimbabwe. It is a great self drive holiday destination to explore on a road trip - explore Zimbabwe on a selfdrive safari. Means of transportation in Zimbabwe are limited and not very reliable. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Avoid driving at night. There have been occasional armed robberies targeting foreign residents. You can find a list of recent incidents and accidents on the website of the Aviation Safety network. Answer 1 of 8: My wife and i are doing a trip up to linvingstone and then thinking of heading to matetsi lodge for 5 days in february (although i appreciate not the best time). As a disabled driver you can expect only localised help when you park but this is usually forthcoming. Commuter omnibuses or “combis” are often overcrowded, inadequately maintained, uninsured and recklessly driven. Drivers are to carry at all times while driving, a valid driver’s licence, registration documents and insurance documents. Ethiopian Airlines and Kenyan Airways have resumed flights from Harare to London, via Addis Ababa and Nairobi respectively. Zimbabwe is a country in Southern Africa. British government employees travelling to and within Zimbabwe have been advised to use carriers that aren’t subject to the EU operating ban. Plan carefully before setting out on long distance journeys. Road travel You’ll also require a police vehicle clearance certificate (temporary import permit) if you’re bringing in a non-Zimbabwe registered vehicle. Under current UK COVID-19 restrictions, you must stay at home. The currency is commonly US dollars and whilst index prices can fluctuate daily, a meal at a cheap restaurant costs approximately 10 USD, a coffee 2.50 USD, a loaf of bread 1 USD, and a bottle of wine 8.60 USD. Don’t leave your vehicle unattended in unguarded areas in towns. Safety is the elephant in the room. (4) That no vehicle … You can drive in Zimbabwe using a full UK driving licence for up to 12 months. Driving in Zimbabwe is not recommended since the driving conditions are really bad and the country is filled with irresponsible drivers. The cost of living in Zimbabwe is relatively low. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place 2. Drink driving is a big problem in Zimbabwe and as such the police are tough on stopping it. We use some essential cookies to make this website work. It’s often safest to park in a commercial or hotel parking where it’s usually free. If you plan to visit this … It’s safer for you and for other road users. You should avoid political activity, or activities which could be construed as such, including political discussions in public places. These lists aren’t exhaustive and the absence of an airline from this list doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s unsafe. The emergency number in Zimbabwe is the UK standard 999 for all emergency services but you can also use 993 for the ambulance, 994 for the fire department and 995 for the police. Mugging, pick pocketing and jewellery theft are common in city centres, especially after dark. Your safari guide will ensure your safety at all times. Residents in Zimbabwe are baffled by the amount of bribery being elicited from South Africans by policemen there. The fact that an airline isn’t included in the list doesn’t automatically mean that it meets the applicable safety standards. Travel to Zimbabwe is generally safe, but solo travelers need to be cautious of petty crime and scams. Answer 1 of 8: My wife and i are doing a trip up to linvingstone and then thinking of heading to matetsi lodge for 5 days in february (although i appreciate not the best time). You have come all of this way to see the amazing Zimbabwean wildlife, don´t leave without doing a game drive in Zimbabwe. Be sure to take confirmation of your bookings with you when travelling. They have led to violence in the past. Under 25 years old you’ll have to pay a young drivers’ excess. You should insist on a receipt for any fine you’re asked to pay. Safety standards vary and you should check whether operators are trained and licensed. If you do not comply (and you do not have a valid exemption) your airline or carrier may refuse you boarding and/or you may be fined on arrival. There have been thefts and smash-and-grab robberies from vehicles, including at the main intersections along the route to Harare International Airport and on the Masvingo-Beitbridge road. When you’re in a city or town, take care when you’re driving at night and avoid walking at night if you can. Carry your Zimbabwean residents’ ID or a photocopy of your passport at all times. It’s an offence to continue driving when the President’s motorcade goes past, no matter which side of the road you’re on. Check the rules that apply to you in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Self Drive Zimbabwe: a beautiful destination that offers a wide variety of attractions! Traffic accidents are a common cause of death and injury in Zimbabwe. The motorways are subject to tolls in Zimbabwe as are the border crossings into South Africa. Air Zimbabwe has been refused permission to operate flights to the EU because the airline has been unable to demonstrate that it complies with international air safety standards. 29 times in 2 days is ridiculous and good on you for standing your ground.. Petrol stations in Zimbabwe are easily found in the main cities and towns. It is an offence to make derogatory or insulting comments about the President or to carry material considered to be offensive to the President’s office. A self-drive holiday through Zimbabwe is an invitation to an unforgettable African adventure. To drive in Zimbabwe , you need both: a valid Australian driver licence; an International Driving Permit (IDP) Get your IDP before leaving Australia. Roam around and discover each and every places by driving your own car. The Zimbabwean mobile phone network and land lines are unreliable. The most important sights are the Victoria Falls but the safari attractions of Zimbabwe's tourist industry have been decimated by poachers. You should be particularly vigilant when using these routes. If you are stopped, you are likely to be asked for the ‘fine’ for your infringement in cash. There is an effective road system in place, and generally good roads by comparison to other developing countries, however, drivers must be extremely vigilant for the following reasons. Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world, is located on the Zambezi River in both Zimbabwe and Zambia. 1 July 13, 2019 8:48 PM It started with rumours that Shona Bulawayo city Councillors conspired to fire top Bulawayo Council Management. The drink driving laws in Zimbabwe are the same as in the UK. Zimbabwe Driving Advice and Car Hire Info. There have been a number of incidents in which animals have attacked visitors, resulting in injuries and, in some cases, death. However, the International Air Transport Association publishes lists of registered airlines that have been audited and found to meet a number of operational safety standards and recommended practices – IATA Operational Safety Audit and IATA Standard Safety Assessment. Street lighting can be poor. Zimbabweans drive on the left side of the road and people often drive over the speed limit. Smashing the windows of cars with the intent to steal, which can harm the driver or passengers, is also common. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Cash Shortages: Cash shortages are a factor when traveling Zimbabwe. Don’t carry or display large amounts of cash in public places. Remain vigilant at Harare International Airport and when leaving banks and cash points. When you enter England from abroad (except Ireland), you must follow the new requirements for quarantining and taking additional COVID-19 tests. Some other countries have closed borders, and may further restrict movement or bring in new rules including testing requirements with little warning. You should avoid driving outside the main towns at night. English is the national language of Zimbabwe so you'll have no trouble being understood. Very little enforcement of parking is carried out in Zimbabwe as most parking is free. In Zimbabwe traffic lights follow the same sequencing that they do in most of the world. The Chronicle on an Anti-Shona drive in Bulawayo. You should treat wild animals with caution and respect and keep a safe distance from them at all times. Demonstrations and civil unrest may occur. An increased focus on tourism has meant that it is now safe to go on safari in Zimbabwe and enjoy other holidays in the country too. If you are travelling with children, ask when you book your hire car and we’ll ensure that your car is fitted with the appropriate seats. You only have to be 16 to drive in Zimbabwe but for hiring a car you’ll need to be a minimum of 21 in some cases 23. These can be unpredictable and may turn violent. We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services. Important Reminders: Drive on the left side of the road. Copyright © 2021 rhinocarhire.com. Larger intercity buses may also be poorly driven. Zimbabwe is currently experiencing some electricity shortages resulting in extended periods without power. If you have a mechanical problem with your hire car, contact the emergency number given to you by the local car hire agent. If you are legally permitted to travel abroad, check our advice on your country of destination. TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM. If this growth continues then it is set to become one of Africa’s top tourist destinations. In hire cars, all occupants must wear a seat belt. Speed trap detectors are not illegal in Zimbabwe but we always recommend that you stick to the speed limit rather than try to beat the system. Contact your tour operator or hotel for latest updates. A three-night stay at Nyamepi Campsite in the Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe dished up all the excitement I'd hoped for. (2) That my vehicle may cross both line if it is safe to do so. Is Zimbabwe safe? There is a moderate level of crime. Any independent traveller researching the prospect of a road trip through Zimbabwe, will be aware of negative reviews, warning of dangers ranging from potholes to roadblocks. Do wear your seatbelt and keep all doors and windows locked as daytime carjacking occurs on occasion. During blackouts, you should exercise a high degree of caution when driving as traffic lights may not be operational. While most people who visit Zimbabwe have a trouble-free holiday, you do need to be aware of some risks so that you stay safe on your travels. There is a shortage of USD in the country. Make sure your accommodation is secure at all times. Driving in Zimbabwe can be very rewarding but it can also be dangerous. Notes: for the police is the Harare Central Police Station at 777-777; for fire fighters 783-983; and for ambulance MARS at 771-221. The paved roads we did drive on were in decent condition. Vehicles and roads are often poorly lit and roads badly marked. It is landlocked and is surrounded by South Africa to the south, Botswana to the Southwest, Zambia to the Northwest, and Mozambique to the east and north. Before you return to the UK you must provide your journey and contact details. With our Drive Smart guide you're fully prepared to hire a car in Zimbabwe and stay safe on unfamiliar roads. There is a high level of corruption in Zimbabwe and it extends into the police force. I read on a sign at Vic Falls that at one time if you had enough gold shillings to make up $1 you would be richer than Bill Gates (US$1 was equivalent to Z$2,621,984,228). If you’re a resident in Zimbabwe you may wish to get a Zimbabwean licence to minimise the potential for problems at road blocks. Visit national parks, historic sites, famous landmarks, beautiful landscapes and wilderness areas on a self drive safari - an independent road tripper's dream. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. Tolls are low, typically $1 to $5. Intercity travel remains restricted. Violent crime, such as assault, carjacking, and home invasion, is common. Road Network: The “back” roads are indeed bad in Zimbabwe, but most travelers will not be driving on them. Zimbabwe has more than its fair share of disabled drivers but gives few, if any, concessions. Familiarize yourself with a few traffic rules before planning your visit. If you are stopped and told that you may not access a particular area, you should turn back. All content is available under the Open Government Licence v3.0, except where otherwise stated, refused permission to operate flights to the EU, About Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office travel advice, What to do if you’re affected by a crisis overseas, Coronavirus (COVID-19): guidance and support, Transparency and freedom of information releases. While it is possible to drive in Zimbabwe if you have an international driver’s license, it is better to have someone drive for you so you will be free from headaches due to human and animal traffic as well as the poor road conditions. Always use attending parking where possible, it may cost a little more but in the long run it will be safer. You must obey police signals, stop at roadblock… Tourists are authorised to travel between airports and designated tourist facilities. If you arrive with a negative COVID-19 test issued within 48 hours of … If you intend to travel to the UK from abroad, including UK nationals returning home, you must provide evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result taken up to 3 days before departure. In Zimbabwe it’s illegal to talk or text on a mobile phone whilst driving unless you have a hands free kit. 1. However, they should not deter you. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. There have been a number of incidents where people have been assaulted by the security forces for stopping in the wrong place or for not stopping soon enough. It’s also a good idea to have a copy of your passport. a nice drive from my house to Harare Agricultural show ground with a bit off rain SORRY FOR THE BAD SOUND QUALITY Driving permit. In Zimbabwe there are no specific laws for child safety in cars; the onus is on the parents. Public transport is currently very limited. Zimbabwe went through a period of extreme hyperinflation. How complicated is it to exchange money? The FCDO can’t offer advice on the safety of individual airlines. Stick to main roads and paths in areas where landmines could exist. Be careful at night and at filling stations. Only the front seat occupants of a car need wear a seat belt but we recommend that everyone wears one where fitted. You should avoid them if possible. Unfortunately there is no other cost effective way … The only time you’ll encounter a problem is if you cause an obstruction. Favourite destination: Dubai. People travelling alone may be more vulnerable. Zimbabwe has many safari lodges and game reserves which remain open. If you haven’t been on safari in Zimbabwe, now is the time. Thanks for any advice or comments :-) Last reply was Mon, … Different rules apply for arrivals into England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The report found that the level of implementation of the critical elements of safety oversight in Zimbabwe was close to the global average. If you do need to call the police you should avoid moving the vehicles where possible and take a photograph of the scene. If you’re a resident in Zimbabwe you may wish to get a Zimbabwean licence to minimise the potential for problems at road blocks. Travel carefully on inter-city roads, always wear seatbelts, lock car doors and carry a comprehensive medical kit. We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services. We are planning a trip to zimbabwe in November and I am bit concerned about the current situation. Thanks to the significance of the recent events outlined below, Zimbabwe is now stronger than it has been for years. There have been a number of serious road accidents involving long distance buses travelling at night. You must carry your driving licence – an international driving licence is required in many cases but not if you’re a UK driver intending to stay for less than 90 days, your proof of insurance to the minimum third party level and your registration documents.
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