Getting Around Zimbabwe

Air

Air Zimbabwe (http://airzimbabwe.aero) runs domestic flights to Bulawayo, Harare and Victoria Falls, but the national airline has ceased much of the rest of its domestic operation. There are special light-aircraft services at Kariba and Victoria Falls offering sightseeing and game-viewing flights.

Departure tax

US$10.

Road

There is an excellent road network, with paved roads connecting all major towns and many rural areas. There are often fuel shortages, even in the main cities, and therefore it's wise to drive with a full tank of petrol when possible and be aware that public transport may be cancelled.

Side of the road

Car Hire

Available at airports and main hotels.

Regulations

Speed limits are 40kph (25mph) in national parks, 120kph (75mph) on open roads and 60 to 80kph (40 to 50mph) on other roads. Police road blocks are common.

Documentation

International Driving Permit or national licence; if not in English, it must be accompanied by a certificate of authority or translation of text. Valid for 90 days.

Urban travel

In Harare, plans are afoot to introduce an improved public transport system. In 2015, the city bought 500 buses in the hope it can tempt commuters out of kombi (minivan) taxis and reduce congestion.

Rail

There are trains between Bulawayo, Chiredzi, Harare, Labatse, Mutare, Plumtree, Triangle and Victoria Falls run by National Railways of Zimbabwe (www.nrz.co.zw). The rail system is underdeveloped and poorly maintained.

Water

Ferries run on Lake Kariba from Kariba to Binga and Mlibizi.