In our new Globe Trotter series, Viral Travel reviews all the best places to see, eat and stay at in every country of the world!
This week we visit: Zimbabwe
You may get the wrong impression that the country is unsafe for travelling. That is not the case. The country can be considered safe and even more so if your visit is primarily in an organized safari or guided tour. The advice is solely intended to help you further decrease the already small risks.
What you should do:
Buy travel and health insurance and check that all activities on your trip are covered. Check the entry requirements, including: number of empty pages and months left before your passport expires, visa requirements, if holding a return ticket is required, etc.
When it comes to health, get all the required vaccinations, preventive malaria medication and insect repellent, which should contain at least 20-30% DEET.
Lock all bags before handing them over at check-in at the airport.
Make photocopies of important documents and keep them separate. It is also recommended to scan these documents and email a copy to yourself and somebody at home, along with your flight other travel details.
Check with your tour operator what to pack. It is important to be protected against the sun and have suitable clothing for wildlife watching.
When small charter flights are part of your trip, check the luggage weight limits, since you often aren’t allowed to bring a lot.
Don’t drive at night, as they are often poor and people frequently walk on the road, sometimes drunk.
When driving in areas known for car hijackings you should lock all doors and keep your windows closed. Don’t stop at hijacking hotspots, such as empty parking lots or the emergency lane. The risk is significantly higher after dark, so keep that in mind.
Don’t offend or irritate police officers, and always show respect. Police officers might try their luck getting a bribe. Don’t get aggressive, but also don’t give in. Keep in mind that a light attitude and a joke might get you off the hook.
Don’t take photos of government or military buildings and constructions, as those are forbidden.
