Travel Vaccines and Advice for Zimbabwe
The Zambezi river flows through northwest Zimbabwe, where gorgeous Victoria Falls is located. Travellers see the beautiful, red msasa trees and green mountains.
Those who venture into the cities will meet locals who are friendly, polite, and welcoming, despite the economic and political difficulties they have faced. Zimbabwe is a country for those who want to see some of the natural beauty Southern Africa has to offer.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Zimbabwe?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Zimbabwe?
What is the Climate Like in Zimbabwe?
How Safe is Zimbabwe?
Visiting Hwange National Park
What Should I Pack To Zimbabwe?
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Zimbabwe
Do I Need Vaccines for Zimbabwe?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Zimbabwe. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Zimbabwe: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies and tetanus.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Tetanus –
Wounds or Breaks in Skin –
Recommended for travellers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Recommended for travellers
to most regions. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
Areas of transmission include Harare and Mashonaland West. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Zimbabwe |
||
VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
---|---|---|
Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated. |
Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Tetanus | Wounds or Breaks in Skin | Recommended for travellers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated. |
Typhoid | Food & Water | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Cholera | Food & Water | Areas of transmission include Harare and Mashonaland West. |
Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission |
Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry to Zimbabwe. The disease is also present in the country and poses a threat to travellers. Ensure you are vaccinated before your trip.
Malaria is also present in Zimbabwe. Ensure you are protected with antimalarials, mosquito repellents and nettings.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Zimbabwe?
A visa is required for entry to Zimbabwe. Note, a work visa is required for volunteers and missionaries staying more than 30 days. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.
Zimbabwe Entry Requirements |
||
Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Zimbabwe? | |
---|---|---|
Passport | ||
Tourist Visa | ||
Business Visa | ||
Vaccinations |
Sources: Embassy of Zimbabwe and GOV.UK
What is the Climate Like in Zimbabwe?
The climate in Zimbabwe is quite variable, depending on the elevation one is at. Throughout the country there is a dry season from May to September and a rainy season from November to March.
In the central Highveld plateau, temperatures are quite warm. Hwange and Zambezi NP, which are lower-lying parks, reach temperatures in the high-20’s Celsius. Even lower elevation, Mana Pools gets very hot, peaking in the low-30’s.
Travellers who go to the Eastern highlands will experience cooler temperatures.
How Safe is Zimbabwe?
There is a moderate amount of crime in the country of Zimbabwe. Criminals often operate in areas where large numbers of people congregate. Travellers should avoid carrying unnecessary valuables with them.
Travellers should be aware of “smash and grabs” where thieves break car windows whilst stopped and reach in, taking whatever they can. To prevent this, travel in well-lit areas and keep car doors locked and windows rolled-up.
Visiting Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park is the largest Park in Zimbabwe. Travellers looking to see wildlife, will be amazed will have plenty to look for. The Park is home to over 100 different species of mammals and about 400 different species of birds. Ensure to stay until dark to see the beautiful sunset. Those who want to stay overnight can sleep in one of the lodges, cottages, or chalets and visit the bar and restaurant or curio shop located on the Main Camp.
What Should I Pack for Zimbabwe?
- Money Belt – Due to the amount of pick-pocketing that occurs, a money belt will allow you to keep your money and passport safe.
- Jacket – At night or during the rainy season, temperatures can get quite low, making a warm jacket a must.
- Cash – There is currently a cash liquidity crisis in Zimbabwe, meaning the flow of U.S. dollars out of the country is limited. Travellers should bring enough cash for the duration of their trip.
- Walking shoes – Visitors will likely want to explore the beautiful wilderness or the Zambezi river, meaning a lot of walking.
Embassy of the United Kingdom in Zimbabwe
If you are in Zimbabwe and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.
British Embassy Harare
3 Norfolk Road,
Mount Pleasant,
Harare
Zimbabwe
Telephone: 024 2 85855200
Emergency Phone: +024 2 85855200
Fax: +263 4 85855284
Email: ukinfo.harare@fco.gov.uk and consular.harare@fco.gov.uk
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Ring or book online now and start travelling safely today!