Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the official currency of Zimbabwe?
In a country known for having no official currency, it can be difficult to know what currency to bring with you. As of 2016, Zimbabwe introduced the US dollar as legal tender here, and as such we recommend using that. While many businesses accept a range of currencies – including the South African rand, the euro, Japanese yen and even the British pound in some cases – the US dollar is among the most widely accepted here. Hotels, restaurants and bars may accept credit and debit cards. Outside of the capital and more populated towns, you might have difficulty locating ATMs.
What language is spoken in Zimbabwe?
Despite there being no official census, English, Shona and Ndebele are the most commonly spoken languages in Zimbabwe. While as many as 16 different languages are recognised here, for the most part you will be able to communicate in English with tour operators, hotel and restaurant staff.
When is the best time to visit Victoria Falls?
Victoria Falls experiences ‘high season’ from February through to May every year, with the summer rainfall massively increasing the volume of water flowing over the Falls, thus making for a more impressive view. The water flows faster, and the resulting plumes of mist are far denser, travelling further afield – some visitors report seeing the mist from miles away.
The expansive wildernesses of Zimbabwe sustain an astonishing variety of wildlife, including some of the largest gatherings of elephants across the whole of Africa. Whether you’re here for an exciting safari expedition, a pulse-pounding white-water experience, or simply to take in awe-inspiring panoramas of African landscapes, Zimbabwe must be seen to be believed.
Why you’ll love Zimbabwe…
• Taking in incredible views of Victoria Falls by helicopter
• Capturing magical photos of the rainbows which appear from the dense spray surrounding the cascading Falls
• Braving a white water rapid experience
• Cruising down the Zambezi River with a sundowner cocktail as dusk falls
• Tracking the world famous Big Five game at Hwange National Park
• Spotting rare and lesser-known fauna, such as sable antelope and brown hyena
• Marvelling at 2,000 year-old cave paintings and inscriptions at Matobo National Park
• Interacting with local Shangaan tribes at Gonarezhou National Park
• Observing the vibrant reds and oranges of the Chiloji Cliffs
• Witnessing Hwange’s Presidential Elephant Herds
• Sleeping under the stars at Somalisa Camp
Did you know?
• Despite being a landlocked country, there is a very real fear of mermaids throughout Zimbabwe.
• During 2008, Zimbabwe issued $100,000,000,000,000 (one hundred trillion) dollar notes.
• More than half of the population of Zimbabwe are under 21 years old.
