Travelling Safely in Western Zimbabwe
Western Zimbabwe is generally a safe destination for tourists, and the vast majority of visitors have trouble-free experiences. The region's tourism industry is mature, professional, and well-regulated. However, as with any travel destination, sensible precautions will help ensure your trip goes smoothly.
General Safety
Personal Safety
- Victoria Falls town is safe to walk around during the day. At night, stick to well-lit areas and use taxis for longer distances
- Bulawayo is considered one of Zimbabwe's safest cities. The city centre is walkable during the day, but exercise normal urban caution after dark
- Avoid displaying expensive jewellery, electronics, or large amounts of cash — opportunistic theft can occur in any tourist area
- Use hotel safes for passports, excess cash, and valuables
- Carry a photocopy of your passport rather than the original document
Road Safety
- Driving standards are generally reasonable on main roads, but hazards include potholes, stray animals, and pedestrians walking on the roadside
- Night driving is not recommended outside urban areas due to unlit obstacles, pedestrians, and animals on the road
- Fuel stations can have intermittent supply. Fill up whenever you have the opportunity, particularly before long stretches
- Speed limits are generally 60 km/h in towns and 120 km/h on main highways. Speed traps are common
- Roadblocks are frequent. Always carry your driving licence, vehicle registration, and insurance documents. Be polite and cooperative
Wildlife Safety
- Never approach wild animals on foot unless accompanied by a qualified, armed guide
- Hippos kill more people in Africa than any other large animal. Maintain at least 100 metres distance from hippos, especially between them and water
- Elephants can be unpredictable, particularly lone bulls and mothers with calves. Never get between an elephant and its escape route
- Crocodiles are present in all rivers and lakes. Never swim in natural water bodies unless explicitly told it is safe by a knowledgeable local
- Snakes are rarely encountered but include several dangerous species. Watch where you walk, particularly in long grass and rocky areas
Scams and Hustles
Common Tourist Scams
- Currency scams — being given bond notes or ZiG instead of USD as change. Check your change carefully
- Unofficial guides — people offering to "guide" you to the falls or around town, then demanding payment. Politely decline and use registered operators
- Curio vendors — aggressive selling is common around tourist sites. A firm but polite "no thank you" is sufficient. Bargaining is expected if you do buy
- Fake safaris — always book through registered, reputable tour operators. If a deal seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is
How to Respond
- Stay calm and polite
- Do not engage in arguments
- Walk away if you feel uncomfortable
- Report persistent issues to your hotel or the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority
Emergency Contacts
- Police — 995 or +263 (0)4 703631
- Ambulance — 994
- Fire — 993
- Victoria Falls Rescue — for river and gorge emergencies
- Your country's embassy — carry the contact details for your nearest embassy or consulate
Adventure Activity Safety
Western Zimbabwe is Africa's adventure capital, and all reputable operators maintain excellent safety standards:
- Always use registered, established operators for adventure activities. Ask your hotel for recommendations
- Check insurance — ensure your travel insurance covers the specific activities you plan to do
- Listen to safety briefings — they are given for a reason. Follow instructions precisely
- Declare medical conditions — if you have any medical conditions that could affect your safety during an activity, inform the operator before starting
- Trust the guides — Zimbabwe's adventure activity guides are among the most experienced in Africa. They will not put you in genuine danger
For Solo Travellers
- Western Zimbabwe is generally safe for solo travellers, including solo female travellers
- Join group tours for activities and day trips — this is both safer and more sociable
- Inform your hotel of your daily plans so someone knows where you are
- Use reputable taxi services rather than accepting rides from strangers
Zimbabwe's people are its greatest safety asset. Zimbabweans are renowned across Southern Africa for their warmth, friendliness, and willingness to help. If you feel lost, confused, or uncomfortable, don't hesitate to ask for help — you will almost always receive it with a smile.
