WHAT LANGUAGES ARE SPOKEN IN ZIMBABWE?

The three main languages in Zimbabwe are English, Shona and Ndebele.

Pretty much everybody has a good grasp of English, so communication is not generally an issue.

HOW DO I TRAVEL IN ZIMBABWE?

The distances between national parks is quite large, so we usually recommend light aircraft as being the best way to travel.

Not only does this shorten the time you spend transferring, it also gives you a completely different perspective of the stunning landscapes of Zimbabwe. It is possible to do some transfers by four wheel drive vehicle and we always ensure these vehicles are of a very comfortable standard.

IS ZIMBABWE SAFE?

Zimbabwe is a safe country to visit, especially on the main tourist routes.

There is an issue with petty theft, as with lots of destinations around the world, so we would recommend you take care not to display any valuables and be discreet when withdrawing money from the cash machines. Do not walk around at night; use a taxi service or a hire car.

Whilst on safari, you must listen to your guide who will take your safety as paramount. You will be in wilderness areas around wildlife, so be sensible with your decisions and you will remain safe.

Most of the safari lodges and camps we use in Zimbabwe are in prime wilderness areas where wild animals roam! At dusk some animals such as elephant, buffalo and hippo may come and graze near these camps. It is not unknown for the ‘Big Cats’ to wander through camps as well! Wild animals are dangerous and should not be approached on foot, unless accompanied by a guide. After dark camps and lodges will have night watchmen on duty to escort you to and from your tent or room. Once you have retired for the night please do not leave your tent/room and in the unlikely event that you need to summon assistance there will usually be a whistle beside your bed to alert the night watchman. It is also wise to keep your tent zipped up, as well as doors and window screens closed at all times after dark and also during the day when you are out.

WHAT’S THE FOOD LIKE?

Zimbabwean cuisine is strongly influenced by Europe, with pasta, rice and potatoes readily available.

On safari, you will generally be served European style cuisine with an African twist. Maize is the most common thing to eat and you must make sure you try Sadza, kind of like maize balls that you roll up with your hands and dip in your stew.

Make sure you try the local foods as it is all part of the experience.

WHAT’S THE SERVICE AND ACCOMMODATION LIKE?

You can expect a high level of service at your accommodations and from your guides.

Guides in Zimbabwe are trained to the highest standards, and they go through an extensive training process to become successful

The accommodation facilities will obviously vary according to the standard you have booked into, but in general, accommodation is very good. We select our accommodation to the highest standards and levels of comfort, but our foremost priority is the location. A majority of the lodges we choose are in prime wilderness areas, home to some of Zimbabwe’s best wildlife.

WHAT IS THERE TO DO IN ZIMBABWE?

Zimbabwe is a destination bursting with activities and things to do.

Explore a range of diverse national parks, including Hwange, famous for its huge elephant herds, to Matobo, where you will find a landscape mainly consisting of large granite rocks, home to lots of rhino. You can canoe around Mana Pools National Park, the perfect way to view the wildlife as it comes to drink. There is also, of course, the magnificent Victoria Falls. Arguably better from the Zimbabwean side, from here there is a range of activities to enjoy, including bungee jumping, white-water rafting, abseiling, elephant rides, horse safaris and fishing.

For a more cultural, historical and architectural experience, you can head to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, built way back in the 11th century. Once the grand capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe, it still stands shrouded in mystery, its marvellously huge stone structures thought to be the key to a lost civilisation.

Zimbabwe can easily be combined with other African destinations, such as Zambia and Botswana.