Travelling to and from Zimbabwe
Getting to Zimbabwe is really not a difficult task. Harare Airport receives international flights from all over the globe, and daily flights from Johannesburg. Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Airport in Bulawayo, the country's second city, also services both local and international destinations, though less regularly. But you didn't come all the way to Zimbabwe to see the cities, it's the Safari destinations that you're after and we'll help you get there.
From Harare, there is a good network of flights that service Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Mana Pools and Southern Zimbabwe. Some of the lodges have their own landing strips and can facilitate charter flights, though it is best to double check this with a consultant. You can reach all these destinations by road, but this is no easy task as most of the game reserves are off the beaten track and only accessible by 4x4 vehicle.
It is possible to drive from South Africa into Zimbabwe, crossing the border at Beitbridge, or enter the country via Botswana or Zambia. Again we recommend a flight, as it is quicker and more convenient.
Victoria Falls is the country's main attraction and easily reached with daily flights from Johannesburg. There is also a flight between Victoria Falls and Kruger Mpumulanga International Airport servicing the Kruger National Park.
Crossing from Zimbabwe to Zambia
At the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia you will need to remember that:
- You may be required to present yourself at Immigration
- Possible queues at Immigration
- You will cross over the Victoria Falls bridge – here only two light vehicles are allowed on this bridge at any one time, which can cause occasional delays
- Heavy truck congestion blocking parts of the road may also cause delays
- You may need to walk a short way with your bags to change transfers
