Zimbabwe, located in southern Africa, attracted over 2 million international visitors in 2023. The capital, Harare, is the main gateway, with Harare International Airport handling around 1.5 million passengers each year. The country features diverse attractions such as Hwange National Park with its elephant herds and the ancient stone ruins at Great Zimbabwe. However, concerns about safety persist. Understanding local conditions, recent crime trends, and practical safety advice can help ensure a trouble-free visit.
Top Zimbabwe Tours and Experiences
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From Victoria Falls Zimbabwe Traditional Village Tour
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- Experience authentic Zimbabwean culture firsthand
- Enjoy interactive performances and local cuisine
“Engage with local artisans and learn about traditional crafts”
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Guided Tour of The Falls Zimbabwe Side
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- The tour includes access to viewing platforms that offer varying perspectives of the falls.
- Visitors can observe and learn about the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area.
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Harare City Tour & Zimbabwe Highlights
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- Opportunities to engage with local artisans and learn about traditional crafts.
- Inclusion of local food tasting to experience Zimbabwean cuisine.
“Guided visits to important cultural and historical sites with a knowledgeable local guide.”
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From Victoria Falls Hwange Conservation Safari W Lunch
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- Experience the thrill of wildlife safaris in Hwange National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves.
- Support conservation efforts while enjoying your travels, making a positive impact on the environment.
“Enjoy a guided tour that includes a lunch, providing a taste of local cuisine amidst the wilderness.”
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Is Zimbabwe generally safe for international tourists in 2026?
Zimbabwe is generally safe for international tourists who follow standard safety measures, especially in urban centers like Harare and popular sites such as Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park.
Recent years have seen fluctuating crime rates, but violent crime directed at visitors remains relatively uncommon compared to neighboring countries. Petty theft, including pickpocketing and snatching of bags, happens mostly in crowded spots like Sam Levy’s Village shopping center, where the scent of grilled street food fills the air, and Mbare Musika market, known for its loud bargaining and colorful produce stalls. Travelers should stay alert, avoid walking alone after dark, and use registered taxis or ride-hailing services such as Vaya.
Police maintain a visible presence in tourist areas, and many hotels and lodges have security guards. The government’s push to increase tourism investment by 438% in 2026 has led to better infrastructure and improved visitor services.
Recent years have seen fluctuating crime rates, but violent crime directed at visitors remains relatively uncommon compared to neighboring countries. Petty theft, including pickpocketing and snatching of bags, happens mostly in crowded spots like Sam Levy’s Village shopping center, where the scent of grilled street food fills the air, and Mbare Musika market, known for its loud bargaining and colorful produce stalls. Travelers should stay alert, avoid walking alone after dark, and use registered taxis or ride-hailing services such as Vaya.
Police maintain a visible presence in tourist areas, and many hotels and lodges have security guards. The government’s push to increase tourism investment by 438% in 2026 has led to better infrastructure and improved visitor services.
What safety precautions should travelers take in Harare neighborhoods?
Visitors in Harare should rely on registered transport, avoid isolated places at night, and secure valuables to reduce risks.
Harare is Zimbabwe’s largest city, featuring a mix of upscale residential areas and busy commercial zones. Neighborhoods like Avondale, Borrowdale, and Greendale, where jacaranda trees bloom purple in spring, are considered safer and popular for lodging and dining. In contrast, parts of the central business district near Samora Machel Avenue and Mbare market, with its cacophony of vendors and taxi ranks, experience higher rates of petty crime.
It is best to use taxis arranged by hotels or booked through apps. Carry only necessary cash and important documents, storing extras in hotel safes. Walking is safest during daylight hours. Visitors should stay vigilant in crowded places like Joina City shopping mall, where the hum of shoppers and vendors creates a lively atmosphere. Avoid political demonstrations and large public gatherings, which sometimes occur near the National Sports Stadium.
Harare is Zimbabwe’s largest city, featuring a mix of upscale residential areas and busy commercial zones. Neighborhoods like Avondale, Borrowdale, and Greendale, where jacaranda trees bloom purple in spring, are considered safer and popular for lodging and dining. In contrast, parts of the central business district near Samora Machel Avenue and Mbare market, with its cacophony of vendors and taxi ranks, experience higher rates of petty crime.
It is best to use taxis arranged by hotels or booked through apps. Carry only necessary cash and important documents, storing extras in hotel safes. Walking is safest during daylight hours. Visitors should stay vigilant in crowded places like Joina City shopping mall, where the hum of shoppers and vendors creates a lively atmosphere. Avoid political demonstrations and large public gatherings, which sometimes occur near the National Sports Stadium.
Harare
Map of Harare
Are Zimbabwe’s national parks like Hwange and Mana Pools safe for tourists?
National parks such as Hwange and Mana Pools are safe when tourists visit with authorized guides and adhere to park rules.
Wildlife safaris attract many visitors, and parks have clear safety protocols to protect guests from wild animals. Guided game drives and walking safaris, typically lasting 3 to 5 hours, are led by trained rangers who focus on safety. Visitors should stay on marked trails and avoid approaching animals.
Entrances like Hwange’s Main Gate feature security checks and emergency communication systems. While crime inside parks is rare, petty theft can occur at campsites, so securing belongings is important. For the latest safety updates, travelers can check with park offices or tour operators before arrival.
Wildlife safaris attract many visitors, and parks have clear safety protocols to protect guests from wild animals. Guided game drives and walking safaris, typically lasting 3 to 5 hours, are led by trained rangers who focus on safety. Visitors should stay on marked trails and avoid approaching animals.
Entrances like Hwange’s Main Gate feature security checks and emergency communication systems. While crime inside parks is rare, petty theft can occur at campsites, so securing belongings is important. For the latest safety updates, travelers can check with park offices or tour operators before arrival.
How safe is public transportation in Zimbabwe’s major cities?
Public transport in Zimbabwe operates but safety varies; registered buses and private shuttles are safer than informal minibuses.
Buses run between Harare and cities like Bulawayo, about 440 km away, and Mutare, roughly 265 km distant. Fares range from EUR 10 to 20 depending on distance and service quality. These buses follow set schedules and maintain moderate security. Informal minibuses, known locally as kombis, are often overcrowded and less reliable, increasing risk.
For airport transfers and city travel, tourists should choose official taxis or ride-hailing apps. Roads between major cities are mostly paved, but rural routes can be rough. Drivers should familiarize themselves with local traffic rules and road conditions, as detailed in Driving in Zimbabwe: Car Hire, Roads & Routes.
Buses run between Harare and cities like Bulawayo, about 440 km away, and Mutare, roughly 265 km distant. Fares range from EUR 10 to 20 depending on distance and service quality. These buses follow set schedules and maintain moderate security. Informal minibuses, known locally as kombis, are often overcrowded and less reliable, increasing risk.
For airport transfers and city travel, tourists should choose official taxis or ride-hailing apps. Roads between major cities are mostly paved, but rural routes can be rough. Drivers should familiarize themselves with local traffic rules and road conditions, as detailed in Driving in Zimbabwe: Car Hire, Roads & Routes.
What health and medical precautions should visitors consider in Zimbabwe?
Visitors should take standard health precautions including malaria prevention, recommended vaccinations, and travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
Malaria risk exists, especially in low-lying areas such as the Zambezi Valley and Hwange National Park. Using antimalarial medication, insect repellent, and sleeping under mosquito nets is advised. Vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A are recommended depending on travel plans.
Harare features private clinics and hospitals with decent facilities, including Parirenyatwa Hospital and Avenues Clinic, though rural areas have limited healthcare options. Travelers should carry a basic first aid kit and have access to international medical evacuation if necessary. Drinking bottled or boiled water helps prevent waterborne illnesses.
Malaria risk exists, especially in low-lying areas such as the Zambezi Valley and Hwange National Park. Using antimalarial medication, insect repellent, and sleeping under mosquito nets is advised. Vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A are recommended depending on travel plans.
Harare features private clinics and hospitals with decent facilities, including Parirenyatwa Hospital and Avenues Clinic, though rural areas have limited healthcare options. Travelers should carry a basic first aid kit and have access to international medical evacuation if necessary. Drinking bottled or boiled water helps prevent waterborne illnesses.
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“If you’re walking down Sam Nujoma Street after 7 pm, it’s best to stick to well-lit areas and avoid flashing your phone. I usually grab a plate of sadza with nyama for about 50 Zimbabwean dollars from a local vendor nearby, and that feels safe enough in Harare’s evenings.”
Tafadzwa Moyo/ Local Tour Operator
What common scams or tourist-targeted crimes should travelers watch out for in Zimbabwe?
Frequent scams include taxi drivers overcharging, unlicensed tour operators, and counterfeit currency; using reputable services reduces risks.
Taxi drivers may inflate fares, so agreeing on a price beforehand or insisting on the meter is wise. Booking tours through licensed operators helps avoid fraud. Counterfeit Zimbabwean and foreign currency circulate, so inspecting notes carefully and exchanging money at official bureaus, such as those in Sam Levy’s Village, is important.
Street vendors sometimes pressure tourists to buy souvenirs at steep prices; politely declining and comparing prices helps avoid overpayment. Staying aware of surroundings and not displaying valuables openly deters opportunistic theft.
Taxi drivers may inflate fares, so agreeing on a price beforehand or insisting on the meter is wise. Booking tours through licensed operators helps avoid fraud. Counterfeit Zimbabwean and foreign currency circulate, so inspecting notes carefully and exchanging money at official bureaus, such as those in Sam Levy’s Village, is important.
Street vendors sometimes pressure tourists to buy souvenirs at steep prices; politely declining and comparing prices helps avoid overpayment. Staying aware of surroundings and not displaying valuables openly deters opportunistic theft.
How do local Zimbabweans perceive safety and security in urban areas?
Locals view urban areas as moderately safe with caution, relying on community vigilance and informal neighborhood watch groups.
Many Zimbabweans adjust daily routines to avoid higher-risk locations, especially after dark. Social networks and community groups share information on crime and safety concerns. Harare’s markets, like Mbare Musika, and public transport hubs are lively and noisy but require attentiveness.
Despite economic difficulties, Zimbabweans maintain a strong sense of hospitality and often assist visitors with directions or advice. Engaging respectfully with residents can improve safety and offer valuable local insights. For cultural context, see Harare Cultural Body Seeks Support for First Heritage Awards.
Many Zimbabweans adjust daily routines to avoid higher-risk locations, especially after dark. Social networks and community groups share information on crime and safety concerns. Harare’s markets, like Mbare Musika, and public transport hubs are lively and noisy but require attentiveness.
Despite economic difficulties, Zimbabweans maintain a strong sense of hospitality and often assist visitors with directions or advice. Engaging respectfully with residents can improve safety and offer valuable local insights. For cultural context, see Harare Cultural Body Seeks Support for First Heritage Awards.
What emergency contacts and resources should travelers have in Zimbabwe?
Keep local emergency numbers handy: police (999 or 112), ambulance (995), fire services (994), and embassy contacts.
Harare hosts several private security firms offering rapid response. Many hotels provide emergency assistance and can help communicate with local authorities. Mobile coverage is widespread in cities, with major providers like Econet and NetOne.
Registering with one’s embassy upon arrival and carrying travel insurance documents is advisable. For current travel advisories, consult official sources such as the UK Foreign Travel Advice or the US Department of State.
Harare hosts several private security firms offering rapid response. Many hotels provide emergency assistance and can help communicate with local authorities. Mobile coverage is widespread in cities, with major providers like Econet and NetOne.
Registering with one’s embassy upon arrival and carrying travel insurance documents is advisable. For current travel advisories, consult official sources such as the UK Foreign Travel Advice or the US Department of State.
Reference Resources
How can tourists save money while maintaining safety in Zimbabwe?
Shopping at local markets during the day, choosing guesthouses in secure neighborhoods, and joining group tours help reduce expenses safely.
Markets like Mbare Market in Harare offer affordable crafts and fresh produce but require vigilance amid the noise of vendors and customers. Guesthouses in areas such as Greendale or Highlands provide a balance of cost and security.
Group tours to places like Hwange National Park or Great Zimbabwe often include transport and guides, lowering individual risk. Avoid traveling alone at night and opt for shared transport to manage costs safely.
Markets like Mbare Market in Harare offer affordable crafts and fresh produce but require vigilance amid the noise of vendors and customers. Guesthouses in areas such as Greendale or Highlands provide a balance of cost and security.
Group tours to places like Hwange National Park or Great Zimbabwe often include transport and guides, lowering individual risk. Avoid traveling alone at night and opt for shared transport to manage costs safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
In Harare, the safest times for tourists to see are during daylight hours, typically from 7 AM to 5 PM. After sunset, many areas, especially outside main commercial zones like Samora Machel Avenue or Borrowdale, become less secure due to limited street lighting and less foot traffic. It's advisable to avoid walking alone at night and to use trusted taxi services or ride-hailing apps such as Vaya or Bolt, which operate from around 6 AM to 10 PM. Tourist hotspots like the National Gallery or Mbare Market are best visited in the morning to early afternoon when vendors and locals are most active, and security is better. Carrying a small amount of cash (around €10-€20) for taxis or emergency expenses is sensible, and always inform your accommodation of your plans if venturing out.
Yes, while Harare features many safe areas, some neighborhoods are best avoided by tourists due to higher crime rates. Areas such as Mbare and parts of Highfield have experienced elevated incidents of petty theft and occasional violent crime. These neighborhoods are primarily residential and local commercial hubs but may lack sufficient security measures for visitors unfamiliar with the environment. Instead, tourists are encouraged to stay in well-known, secure suburbs like Borrowdale, Mount Pleasant, or Avondale, where many hotels and guesthouses are located. These areas benefit from better policing, street lighting, and infrastructure. When moving around, always use a registered taxi or ride-share, especially after dark, and avoid displaying valuables such as expensive cameras or smartphones openly.
Using ATMs in Harare is generally safe if you take proper precautions. ATMs in major shopping centers such as Eastgate Mall, Sam Levy’s Village, or Joina City tend to be more secure and are monitored. Avoid using standalone or poorly lit ATMs, especially at night. To reduce the risk of card skimming or fraud, use ATMs that are attached to banks rather than independent machines. Cover your PIN while typing and regularly check your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions. Many ATMs dispense Zimbabwean dollars or US dollars; confirm the currency before withdrawal. It's wise to carry a backup card and a small amount of cash (around €50) in case of technical issues. Inform your bank of international travel to avoid card blocks.
Tourists in Harare have several transportation options, but safety and reliability vary. The safest and most recommended option is using registered taxis or ride-hailing services like Vaya and Bolt, which operate widely across the city and can be booked via smartphone apps. Typical fares range from €2 to €5 for rides within central Harare. Minibus taxis, known locally as kombis, are inexpensive (about €0.30 per trip) but can be crowded and less predictable and are generally not recommended for tourists unfamiliar with routes. Car hire is another option; daily rental prices start around €40, but driving can be challenging due to local traffic rules and road conditions. Always confirm prices before boarding taxis, and avoid hailing vehicles on the street at night.
Most tourist attractions in Harare are secure and well-managed, especially those popular with international visitors. Places like the National Gallery of Zimbabwe (entry approx. €2), Mukuvisi Woodlands Nature Reserve (entry around €5), and the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences (entry about €3) have security personnel and are safe during opening hours, typically 9 AM to 5 PM. Visitors are advised to avoid isolated spots within these areas, keep belongings close, and stay in groups when possible. Some attractions require advance booking, especially for guided tours or special exhibitions, so checking official websites or contacting your hotel concierge can be helpful. Carry water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially when visiting outdoor sites.
Tourists are strongly advised not to drink tap water in Harare due to inconsistent water treatment standards and potential contamination. Bottled water is widely available throughout the city, with prices ranging from €0.50 for 500 ml to €1 for 1.5 liters in supermarkets or convenience stores. Hotels and guesthouses typically provide bottled water, but it’s good practice to confirm. When buying bottled water, ensure the seal is intact to avoid refilled bottles. For longer stays, using water purification tablets or portable filters can be a cost-effective and safe alternative. Avoid ice in drinks unless you are sure it has been made from purified water.
Understanding and respecting local customs in Harare can enhance safety and foster positive interactions. Zimbabweans value politeness and greetings; always greet shopkeepers, taxi drivers, or locals with a friendly ‘Hello’ or ‘Mhoroi’ (Shona greeting). Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Avoid public displays of affection, which may be frowned upon. When taking photos, always ask permission, particularly of individuals or in markets. Avoid discussing sensitive political topics openly, as this can lead to uncomfortable situations. Carrying yourself with confidence and awareness reduces the risk of being targeted for scams. Learning a few basic Shona or Ndebele phrases can also be helpful and appreciated.
While Harare is generally safe during the day, tourists should be cautious about carrying valuables such as expensive cameras, jewelry, or large amounts of cash. It is best to limit what you bring when out exploring; for example, use a small, secure daypack or crossbody bag that zips closed. Professional cameras can attract unwanted attention in crowded places like markets or public transport. If you plan to take photos in tourist sites, try to be discreet and avoid flaunting high-end gear. At your accommodation, use hotel safes if available, and avoid leaving valuables unattended. If you must carry jewelry, opt for simple, inexpensive pieces to minimize loss risk.
