Facts on Zimbabwe safaris in 2024. If you are planning for a Zimbabwe wildlife safari or any other safari experience in 2024, there are facts that you should be aware of to be informed about this amazing safari destination. Zimbabwe is a landlocked country located in southern Africa, bordered by Zambia to the northwest, Mozambique to the east and south, South Africa to the south, and Botswana to the southwest.
Zimbabwe’s geographical coordinates range from approximately 20.0°S latitude to 30.0°S latitude and 25.0°E longitude to 33.0°E longitude. The country experiences a subtropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons. Annual temperatures vary widely, with average highs reaching around 30°C (86°F) in the summer months of October to March and dropping to around 15°C (59°F) in the winter months of May to August. The annual average rainfall ranges from 400 millimeters to 900 millimeters, with higher precipitation levels in the eastern highlands.
Zimbabwe's diverse geography includes savannas, woodlands, and mountains, contributing to its ecological richness and agricultural potential, though it also faces challenges such as periodic droughts and deforestation.
One of the most breathtaking natural wonders on earth, Victoria Falls is not just a work of art but also a doorway into Zimbabwe's rich cultural past. Victoria Falls is located at approximately 17.9316° S latitude and 25.8253° E longitude in the Matabeleland North province of western Zimbabwe. Victoria Falls is situated at an elevation of around 915 meters (3,000 feet) above sea level, and its climatic conditions, influenced by the Zambezi River, contribute to the breathtaking beauty of this natural wonder throughout the year. The region experiences a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. From May to October, the dry season prevails, characterized by low rainfall, clear skies, and average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The wet season, from November to April, brings higher rainfall, creating a lush landscape.
Travel documents for travelers on Zimbabwe safaris
You must get your Zimbabwe tourist visa at the port of entry into the country, as well as having a valid passport to avoid being arrested and prosecuted for being in a country illegally.
Tipping on a Zimbabwe wildlife safari
Tipping your guide or ranger (around $15-20 is fine) is recommended. Nicer restaurants will include a 10% service charge, but you can include a tip if it's not already on the bill. Otherwise, tipping isn't really an expectation.
Status of internet access in Zimbabwe
Internet access is unlikely in safari expeditions or camps. In more developed areas, there might be a connection, but generally speaking, you probably won't have internet.
Can I use my cell phone while in Zimbabwe?
While some people purchase SIM cards upon arrival, it's unlikely to work in remote areas where you are having a Zimbabwe wildlife safari.
Need for power adapters while on a Zimbabwe wildlife safari?
Zimbabwe's electricity power connections have both Type G British style sockets and Type D Indian Style plugs. 110v devices that aren't compatible with 220v power will require a power converter, and all devices will require a plug adapter.
Status of the toilets in Zimbabwe
Tented camps and luxury hotels offer western-style flushing bowl toilets. However, be aware that toilet paper should always be thrown in the waste basket next to the toilet, and some remote areas might have latrines or squat toilets.
Drinking water in Zimbabwe
The water in Zimbabwe is not safe to drink, so make sure to only drink the free bottled/filtered water provided to you by your accommodation or tour operator if you are on a Zimbabwe wildlife safari.
Whether credit cards are accepted in Zimbabwe
Though there are ATMs at Zimbabwe, Dav Safaris have all-inclusive tours where everything you will need in your safari is paid for. But if you need extra cash, it's best to withdraw it at the airport upon arrival.
The languages spoken in Zimbabwe
Shona (official; most widely spoken), Ndebele (official, second most widely spoken), English (official; traditionally used for official business), 13 minority languages (official; includes Chewa, Chibarwe, Kalanga, Koisan, Nambya, Ndau, Shangani, sign language, Sotho, Tonga, Tswana, Venda, and Xhosa).
Zimbabwe's human population
The human population is approximately 14.5 million people.
Zimbabwe's wildlife population?
If you are interested in a Zimbabwe wildlife safari, you should know that the country has a wildlife population of 350 species of mammals, more than 500 species of birds, and 131 fish species.
Best Time for a Zimbabwe wildlife safari
Zimbabwe is a fantastic safari destination all year round, but the best time to visit is from June to September, during the dry season, when animals congregate around waterholes.
Game You Can Expect to See in Zimbabwe wildlife safari (by region)
Hwange: Buffalo, Cheetah, Eland, Elephant, Kudu, Hippo, Leopard, Lion, White Rhino, Wild dog.
Lower Zambezi: Buffalo, Eland, Elephant, Kudu, Hippo, Leopard, Lion.
Victoria Falls Region: Buffalo, Elephant, Kudu, Wildebeest.
Costs and Regional Highlights
Zimbabwe wildlife safari prices range from $900 for a 3-day safari to $8000 for a 10-day safari.
The River cruise prices range from $7,000 for a 9-day cruise to $18,000 for a 17-day cruise.
The regional highlights include Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, Matobo National Park, and Mandavu Dam among many others.
Featured Lodges and Safari Camps in Zimbabwe
If you desire a Zimbabwe wildlife safari oryou just wanted to visit the Victoria falls, here is a list of the top Zimbabwe safari lodges and tent camps, Bomani Tented Lodge, Gorges Lodge, Camelthorn Lodge, Nehimba Lodge, Changa Safari Camp, Ruckomechi, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Ilala Lodge, The Hide, Kanga Camp, Somalisa Camp, Zambezi Expeditions, Camp Amalinda, and Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge.
Accessing Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe
The distance between Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe, and Victoria Falls is approximately 860 kilometers (534 miles) when traveling by road. The most common mode of transportation between the two locations is by air, and there are domestic flights connecting Harare to Victoria Falls. The flight duration is approximately 1.5-2 hours. If traveling by road, the journey typically takes around 10 to 12 hours, depending on the route taken and the mode of transportation.
List of popular itineraries for Zimbabwe safaris
Book with Dav Safaris
To book an unforgettable safari tour to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe or any other Zimbabwe wildlife safari, contact Dav Safaris through email at info@davsafaris.com and davsafaris@gmail.com or visit our website www.davsafaris.com for detailed itineraries and booking information. For personalized assistance, travelers can also reach out via phone call or WhatsApp to +256701412430 and +256757795781.