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Zimbabwe
- The primary issue travelers to Zimbabwe face is the country's inadequate infrastructure, including unreliable power, water, and transportation systems, which can impact travel plans and necessitate additional precautions for travelers.
- Areas near borders with Mozambique and Zambia have heightened security risks due to smuggling and other illegal activities.
Risk Factors
- Zimbabwe faces challenges with outdated infrastructure, including unreliable water and sewage systems, inconsistent power supply, and telecommunications reliant on generator-powered cell towers prone to outages.
- Travel with power banks or solar chargers to keep electronic devices charged during outages. Keep emergency contact information offline, as cell networks may experience gaps. Book reputable accommodations, which are likely to have a secure water supply and backup electricity. For rural areas, bring portable water filters or purification tablets to ensure access to clean drinking water.
- Petty crime such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and jewelry theft is prevalent, especially in major cities like Harare and Bulawayo and tourist destinations like Victoria Falls.
- More serious crimes, including armed robbery and carjacking, occur, particularly in high-density suburbs and less secure areas of larger cities. Violence is rarely employed in Zimbabwe but may be used as an intimidation tactic (e.g., brandishing a knife).
- Incidents of “smash and grab” are occasionally reported. Remove valuable items from view while parked or in slow-moving traffic.
- Public transportation largely consists of minibusses (kombis), which should be avoided as they are often unreliable, unregulated, and have a poor safety record.
- Overland travel at night carries greater risks due to poorly maintained roads, lack of street lighting, and unmarked hazards. Travelers are strongly advised to avoid traveling after dark and plan their journeys during daylight hours for safety.
- Taxis should not be hailed off the street; unregulated vehicles have been associated with criminality.
- Identifying an official taxi in Zimbabwe can be challenging, as the country lacks a standardized taxi system. Preferably, book through a reputable hotel, company (e.g., Shuttle Direct or Avondale Taxi), or tour operator.
- For overland or intercity travel, a private car and driver or coach service is the safest and most reliable option.
- Protests are relatively common in Zimbabwe, but largely peaceful. The risk of unrest is elevated during election cycles and most likely to occur in urban areas such as Harare or Bulawayo, and particularly near government buildings and central business districts.
- Monitor alerts to stay informed about local developments and bypass any large gatherings.
- It is illegal to make derogatory comments about the president or to carry materials that the government could consider offensive.
- Do not photograph government buildings, military installations, or uniformed personnel, as this is illegal and can lead to detention.
- Ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas