Social Conventions Urban culture in Zimbabwe is greatly influenced by Western culture and education but, in rural areas, traditional values and crafts continue. Shaking hands is the customary form of greeting. European courtesies and codes of practice should be observed when visiting someone’s home. Return invitations are appreciated. Giving a token of appreciation is optional. It is an offence to make derogatory or insulting comments about President Mugabe. Visitors should be aware that an open hand is the political symbol of the main opposition political party, the Movement for
Democratic Change, and that a friendly wave may therefore be interpreted as a provocative political gesture. Casual wear is suitable for daytime and men are only expected to wear suits and ties for business meetings. Smart restaurants or hotel bars require male guests to wear a jacket and tie. Smoking is common, although it is prohibited on public transport and in some public buildings. There are laws against indecency which equates to homosexual activity being illegal.
Photography: The local authorities are very sensitive about taking pictures of governmental buildings, military installations and embassies. A permit can be granted by the government office.
International Travel:
Getting There by Air The national airline is Air Zimbabwe (UM) (website: www.airzim.co.zw).
Departure Tax US$20. Children under two years and transit passengers (within 24 hours) are exempt.
Main Airports Harare (HRE) is 14km (9 miles) southeast of the city. To/from the airport: Coaches run at regular intervals to the city (journey time – 20 minutes). Taxis are available. Facilities: Post office, restaurant, duty-free shop and bank/bureau de change.
Bulawayo (BUQ) is 24km (15 miles) from the city. To/from the airport: Limited bus and taxi services are available.
Victoria Falls (VFA)is 22km (13 miles) from the town. To/from the airport: Bus and taxi services are available. Facilities: Bureau de change, duty-free shop, bars, restaurant and car hire.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (website: www.caaz.co.zm) is responsible for air travel and airports in Zimbabwe.
Getting There by Rail There are train connections from South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique and Zambia.
Getting There by Road There are roads from Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia. Off the main routes (Beitbridge and Victoria Falls), travel conditions are often difficult during heavy rains. Border posts are generally open from 0600-1800, although the more popular route through Beitbridge is open from 0600-2230. For details, contact the embassy or high commission (see General Info).
Overview The following items may be imported into Zimbabwe without incurring customs duty:
• Goods up to a value of US$250 per person, inclusive of tobacco, perfume and gifts. • For persons of 18 years of age or older, 5l of alcoholic beverages (up to 2l of which may be spirits).
Prohibited Imports (a) The import of drugs, honey, pornographic or obscene literature, toy firearms, flick knives and lockable knives is prohibited. (b) Permits are issued on arrival for firearms and ammunition. (c) Agricultural products including seeds, bulbs, fresh meat and drugs require an import license.
Internal Travel:
Getting Around By Air Connections to Buffalo Range, Bulawayo, Gweru, Hwange, Kariba, Masvingo and Victoria Falls are run by Air Zimbabwe and other airlines. There are also special light-aircraft services at Kariba and Victoria Falls offering sightseeing and game-viewing flights.
Getting Around by Water Ferries run on Lake Kariba from Kariba to Binga and Mlibizi.
Getting Around by Rail There are trains between Bulawayo, Chiredzi, Harare, Labatse, Mutare, Plumtree, Triangle and Victoria Falls run by National Railways of Zimbabwe (website: www.planet.nu/sunshinecity/nrz). The rail system is underdeveloped and poorly maintained.
Getting Around by Road There is an excellent road network, with paved roads connecting all major towns and many rural areas. Traffic drives on the left. There are often fuel shortages, even in the main cities, and therefore it is wise to drive with a full tank of petrol when possible and be aware that public transport may be cancelled.
Bus/coach: There are a number of buses, minibuses and coach services serving most of the country. However, buses are not recommended since they are often overcrowded and inadequately maintained. Blue Arrow Luxury Coaches provides bus services to principal destinations including Harare-Bulawayo (via Chivhu and Kwe Kwe). For more details, contact the Zimbabwe Tourism Office (see General Info).
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 license; if not in English, it must be accompanied by a certificate of authority or translation of text. Valid for 90 days.
Getting Around Towns and Cities A reasonable bus service is provided in Harare by a subsidiary of the Zimbabwe Omnibus Company. Tickets are bought in advance from booths. There is also a local bus network in Bulawayo.
