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6th Privacy Symposium Africa: Harare | Zimbabwe Travel Guide

July 31, 2024
PSA 2024, Travel Tips
5 min read

Welcome to the 6th Privacy Symposium Africa (PSA)! This guide is designed to provide you with all the essential information to make your travel to Zimbabwe smooth and enjoyable.

Download The Travel Guide (PDF)

1. Pre-Travel Preparation

1.1 Visa Requirements

  • Check Visa Requirements: Verify if you need a visa to enter Zimbabwe. Visit the official Zimbabwean immigration website or contact the nearest Zimbabwean embassy or consulate for detailed information.
  • Visa Application: If required, apply for a visa well in advance. Ensure you have all necessary documents, including a valid passport, passport-sized photos, a completed visa application form, and proof of accommodation and an invitation letter to attend the PSA or proof of registration.

1.2 Health and Safety

  • Vaccinations: Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations. It is recommended to get vaccinated for yellow fever. Consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
  • Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, accidents, and theft.

1.3 Currency and Finances

ATMs and Banking: ATMs are available in major cities, but it is advisable to carry some cash for rural areas. Notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.

Currency: The official currency is the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). However, US dollars (USD) are widely accepted.

Dollar Exchange:  The Zimbabwe Gold exchange rate is the ZiG to USD rate. The current rate is 1 USD at 14.50 ZiG which changes. Exchange rates are subject to fluctuation. Central bank rates can be found on the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe website. 

1.4 Electricity and Electrical Outlets

  • Zimbabwe has two associated plug types D and G. Plug type D has three round pins in a triangular pattern and plug type G is the plug which has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Zimbabwe operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz.

2. Arrival in Zimbabwe

2.1 Airports

  • Main Airports: Harare International Airport (HRE) is the primary international gateway.
  • Airport Transfers: Pre-arrange airport transfers to your accommodation. Many hotels offer shuttle services. Alternatively, you can use reputable taxi services.

2.2 Customs and Immigration

  • Entry Requirements: Have your passport, visa (if applicable), and arrival form ready for inspection. Be prepared to declare any items as required by customs regulations.

2.3 Internet Access 

Zimbabwe  has the following mobile telecommunication service providers: Econet, Netone and Telecel. Mobile telephone service providers also provide gateways to the internet using GPRS, 4G and 5G. Cell phone SIM cards are widely available. Every SIM card user/buyer in Zimbabwe is expected by law to be registered prior to activation. A SIM card can be registered and activated at the designated service centres; a passport is required for registration. 

3. Accommodation

3.1 Recommended Hotels

  • Holiday Inn Harare
  • N1 Hotel: Samora Machel and Rotten Row 
  • Cresta Hotels: Cresta Oasis and Cresta Lodge 
  • The Bronte Garden Hotel 
  • The Rainbow Towers Hotel 

AirBnB and Booking.com is also available in Zimbabwe.

3.2 Booking Tips

  • Book Early: Secure your accommodation as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues.
  • Confirm Amenities: Ensure your hotel offers amenities such as Wi-Fi, airport transfers, and breakfast.

4. Transportation

4.1 Getting Around

  • Public Transport: Public buses and mini-buses (kombis) are available but can be crowded and less reliable.
  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available in urban areas. The recommended means of transport are TaxiF, Yango, inDrive, Bolt and Hwindi These apps can be downloaded from the App Store or the Google Play Store. 
  • Car Rentals: If you prefer driving, several car rental agencies operate in Zimbabwe. Ensure you have an international driving permit.
  • Shopping Malls/ Centres: Village Walk, Borrowdale, Highland Park, Highlands, Honeydew Lifestyle Centre, Fife Avenue Shopping Centre and Avondale Shopping Centre. 
  • Medical Centres: Corporate 24 Medical Centre, The Avenues Clinic, GunHill Medical Village, Medical Specialists Centre, Medical Chambers, Fife Avenue Medical Centre and Baines Intercare. 
GunHill Medical Village

5.  Security 

Take the precautions you would take in any city. Avoid wearing jewellery or flashy watches on public transport and take care of your belongings. In addition, please be cautious when responding to  phone calls on the street.  

6.  Time 

The time in Zimbabwe is GMT+2

7. Event Details

7.1 Venue Information

  • Location: The PSA will be held at Holiday Inn Hotel, located Corner Samora Machel Avenue and 5th Street, Harare.
  • Dates: 19th to 21st November, 2024

7.2 Registration

  • Check-In: Registration desks will be open from 9am to 5pm on 18th November, 2024. Please bring a printed copy of your registration confirmation.
  • ID Badge: Collect your ID badge at registration. It will be required for entry to all sessions.

8. Local Attractions and Activities

8.1 Harare

Avondale Flea Market: Flea market with stalls selling African curios like drums, mbiras, wall hangings and carvings

National Gallery of Zimbabwe: Explore contemporary African art.

Mukuvisi Woodlands: Enjoy nature trails and wildlife.

Chapungu Sculpture Park: Discover Zimbabwean stone sculptures.

Wild Is Life Trust and ZEN: Explore the wildlife & landscape sanctuary and rehabilitation centre. 

Chiremba Balancing Rocks: Remarkable natural wonder and an iconic symbol of the country

8.2 Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Rainforest: Walk through the lush rainforest with spectacular views of the falls.

Victoria Falls: Visit the iconic waterfall, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Zambezi River Activities: Enjoy activities such as river cruises, white-water rafting, and fishing.

9. Cultural Tips

9.1 Local Etiquette

Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants (10-15%) and for services like tour guides and hotel staff.

Greetings: Handshakes are common. Use titles and last names when addressing people.

Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.

9.2 Language

  • Languages Spoken: English is the official language. Shona and Ndebele are widely spoken.
  • Common Phrases:
    1. Hello: Makadii (Shona), Salibonani (Ndebele)
    2. Thank you: Ndatenda (Shona), Ngiyabonga (Ndebele)

10. Emergency Contacts

10.1 Important Numbers

  1. Police: +263 712800197 (whatsapp)  +263 242 703631 (call), Emergency: +263 242 995
  2. Ambulance: 994
  3. Fire: (993 National) Harare (0242) 783984-7,
  4. Tourist Police: +263 (0)242 702 631
  5. Breakdown Services: (0242) 776760 / +263 0712 406 033

10.2 Embassies and Consulates

  • Locate your embassy or consulate in Harare for assistance in case of emergencies.

We look forward to welcoming you to the 6th Privacy Symposium Africa in Zimbabwe. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@unwantedwitness.org  or helen@misazim.co.zw 

Safe travels!

Best regards,

Privacy Symposium Africa

Download The Travel Guide (PDF)

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