Is Zimbabwe Safe for Travel – What Travellers Should Know in 2025
As someone who recommends Zimbabwe a lot to travellers looking for a more off the beaten track safari the question ‘Is Zimbabwe safe?’ is something I get asked a lot! Typically it’s one of the first things people want to know when considering a trip there. I do understand why I get asked this question a lot, as safety is a top priority for anyone when planning a holiday, especially in a country that’s often in the news for political or economic reasons. However, here’s the truth from someone who has personally been on the ground time and again, Zimbabwe is not only a safe destination for travellers, it’s also one of the most welcoming, resilient, and enriching places you’ll ever visit.
The Zimbabwe You Don’t Hear Enough About
Zimbabweans are some of the warmest, most welcoming, and remarkably resourceful people you’ll ever meet. There’s a local expression I’ve heard more times than I can count during my travels across the country: “We’ll make a plan.” It might sound casual, even lighthearted, but in Zimbabwe, it’s a deeply held philosophy—a mindset that runs through every interaction and every challenge. It reflects a kind of everyday resilience and creativity that’s hard to describe until you’ve experienced it firsthand. Whether it’s a flight delay, a power outage, a last-minute change to your itinerary, or even something as unpredictable as a sudden fuel shortage, Zimbabweans don’t panic. They adapt. Someone always seems to know someone who can help, and things just fall into place. This isn’t luck—it’s the result of a culture built on perseverance, problem-solving, and a deep-seated desire to take care of others. And when it comes to the tourism industry, that ethos shines especially bright.
Tour operators, guides, lodge staff, chefs, and drivers are some of the most competent and caring professionals in African travel. They’re calm under pressure, quietly efficient, and always several steps ahead—often with a Plan B, C, and D, just in case! That said, in my own experience, things rarely go wrong. Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is exceptionally well-organised, and the standards of service are impressively high. It is also a well-documented fact that Zimbabwe Guides are some of the most highly trained across all of Africa – and this level of knowledge and skill does not go un-noticed in the quality of guiding you will receive on game drives, bush walks and water safaris.
The flexibility and competence are matched with genuine hospitality and a natural kindness that instantly puts travellers at ease. Many of my clients tell me they fell in love with Zimbabwe not only for its dramatic landscapes and incredible wildlife but because of the people who made them feel like family. There’s a brilliant humour too—witty, understated, and full of heart—that brings a lightness to even the most ordinary moments. Whether you’re sharing stories around a campfire or chatting with your driver on a long road journey, you’ll feel those moments of connection. And long after the trip is over, it’s these memories—of being welcomed, cared for, and truly seen—that stay with you.
What the Travel Advisories Say
For many travellers the official guidance is the first place to look, even though the advice can often come across as over precautious for almost every country, and sometimes can make you feel like it isn’t safe to travel anywhere in the world! However, let’s look at what they have to say in general. In 2025, Zimbabwe is generally considered safe for tourists, but like many destinations, it requires awareness and common sense. Most major governments such as Canada, UK, Australia, and the US advise exercising a higher degree of caution, however, this is mostly due to petty crime in urban areas, occasional protests, and economic challenges that can affect some services like fuel or electricity.
The U.S. State Department places Zimbabwe at Level 2: “Exercise Increased Caution,” mostly citing crime like pickpocketing or theft from unattended vehicles. Similarly, the UK’s Foreign Office and Australia’s Smartraveller highlight the potential for demonstrations and general opportunistic crime, particularly in cities like Harare and Bulawayo. These advisories though are no different to any other large city in the world, and of course you should always stay alert, avoid obvious risks like walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighbourhoods, and flashing valuables. The reality is though very few tours are likely to be centred around cities as the true beauty of Zimbabwe sits in its nature and the wonderful national parks. Therefore, most travellers who stick to guided tours, reputable accommodations, and well-known routes face no safety or issues at all.
A Ground-Level View: What It’s Really Like to Travel in Zimbabwe
If you’re planning to explore Zimbabwe beyond the popular hub of Victoria Falls, chances are you’ll be travelling either by road through a private or group transfer or opting for a quicker but more expensive flight on a small aircraft. Both options are perfectly viable, and each has its advantages. Personally, I prefer road travel. There’s something special about journeying across Zimbabwe’s vast landscapes, passing through rural villages, spotting wildlife along the way, and getting a real sense of the country’s character that you simply don’t experience from the air.
On my most recent trip in March 2025, I travelled the popular route from Victoria Falls through Hwange to Bulawayo. Before the trip, we were repeatedly told by well-meaning contacts and even a few tour operators, that the roads were in a terrible condition and that flying was the better choice. However, our actual experience painted a different picture. While some stretches were far from perfect, they weren’t nearly as bad as anticipated. In fact, I’d go so far as to say they were no worse than certain country roads I’ve driven on in the UK! There was one particular area, just outside Hwange Town, where we had to slow to a crawl for a couple of miles due to a patch of deep potholes. But even there, we never once felt unsafe, just the need to take it easy and be patient. The longer section between Hwange and Bulawayo is a bit more challenging. It has more potholes and requires a bit of weaving and slower speeds, so the journey takes longer than ideal. That said, it’s not dangerous, just bumpy and time-consuming. For some, this might be a deal-breaker; for me, it’s part of the adventure and a small trade-off for seeing more of the country from ground level.
Historically, one concern with road travel in Zimbabwe has been the presence of police roadblocks. In years gone by, they were known for stopping vehicles under dubious pretenses and issuing on-the-spot fines, which could be frustrating and occasionally intimidating. However, this has improved significantly in recent years. On our most recent trips, we didn’t encounter a single roadblock between Victoria Falls and Bulawayo. It seems the practice has been greatly scaled back, much to the relief of both locals and visitors! Even if you do come across a checkpoint, there’s no reason to worry, especially if you’re travelling with a licensed tour operator. Guides and drivers in Zimbabwe are well-versed in handling these situations. They know what to expect, what documents to show, and how to resolve any questions with minimal delay. At worst, it may cause a short interruption to your journey, but you won’t feel unsafe. In fact, most travellers report these interactions to be brief and polite, and if anything, just part of the adventure.
All in all, road travel in Zimbabwe can be incredibly rewarding, especially if you’re someone who enjoys seeing the land unfold mile by mile. Yes, it takes a bit longer and can be a bit rough in places, but with an experienced guide and a good vehicle, it’s safe, manageable, and in many ways, part of what makes a Zimbabwe trip so memorable.
Light aircraft flights in Zimbabwe are generally very safe and widely used within the tourism industry, especially for connecting remote areas like Hwange, Mana Pools, or Lake Kariba with hubs such as Victoria Falls. These flights are operated by reputable companies with experienced pilots, well-maintained aircraft, and strict safety protocols. For many travellers, the real concerns aren’t about safety but rather the logistics—specifically, the limited baggage allowance. Most small aircraft in Zimbabwe enforce a strict weight limit (often around 15kg in soft-sided bags), which can be a challenge for travelers accustomed to packing more, especially those combining multiple destinations. Another aspect to be aware of is that these flights often operate on a shuttle-style route, meaning there may be one or more stops to drop off or pick up other passengers along the way. While this can slightly extend travel time, it’s typically well-organised and offers the added bonus of incredible aerial views over the landscape—a scenic and practical way to travel across the country.
Political Stability and Protests
While Zimbabwe has seen political unrest in the past, 2025 has so far been calm. General elections are still a year away, and while occasional protests do happen, they’re usually centered around government institutions in cities and are not directed at tourists. Most travellers never encounter anything of the sort. Even so, your guide will always be aware of any local demonstrations and adjust your route accordingly. As with any country, it’s best to steer clear of political gatherings or rallies. Stick to your tour, listen to local advice, and you’re highly unlikely to run into problems.
The Local Tourism Scene: Better Than Ever
One of the most reassuring things about traveling in Zimbabwe today is the sheer passion and dedication that runs through its tourism industry. This is a country that has faced its fair share of challenges over the years with economic setbacks, political turbulence, and shifting international perceptions, but throughout it all, the people who work in tourism have remained steadfast. From lodge managers and chefs to transfer drivers, housekeepers, dancers, and rangers, there’s a deep understanding that every guest matters. Each visitor isn’t just a customer they’re an ambassador who will carry their experience back home, and that knowledge fuels a sincere pride in service and hospitality.
Across the country, from the thundering majesty of Victoria Falls to the sweeping savannahs of Hwange and the ancient stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe, you’ll find an industry operating with remarkable professionalism. Accommodations are diverse and thoughtfully run, ranging from elegant, all-inclusive safari camps with world-class amenities to charming, family-owned guesthouses where you’re welcomed like an old friend. In many cases, these places are locally owned or managed by Zimbabweans who are not only passionate about their work, but deeply connected to the communities and landscapes around them. They’re eager to share their knowledge, stories and culture, not because it’s part of the job, but because it’s part of who they are.
The guiding standards in Zimbabwe are among the very best on the continent. Becoming a licensed guide here is no small feat; the training is rigorous, the knowledge required is vast, and the expectations are high. It’s not uncommon for guides to have decades of experience, with expertise that spans ecology, conservation, history, and tracking skills honed to perfection. In parks like Mana Pools and Matobo Hills, you’ll find guides who are not only superbly skilled but deeply attuned to their environment and able to read the bush like a book and bring it to life in a way that leaves a lasting impression.
What makes the experience even more special is Zimbabwe’s position as a lower-volume destination. Unlike Kenya or South Africa, where popular parks can sometimes feel crowded or overly commercial, Zimbabwe offers a quieter, more contemplative kind of travel. On game drives, you may go hours without seeing another vehicle. At lodges, the atmosphere is tranquil, unhurried, and intimate. There are no long queues, no overrun viewpoints, there isjust space, stillness, and the opportunity to connect more deeply with both nature and the people who call it home.
Final Thoughts: Is Zimbabwe Safe? Yes—And Worth Every Moment
If you’ve been considering a trip to Zimbabwe then 2025/2026 is a great time to go. The country has had its challenges, but the travel experience remains safe, well-managed, and deeply rewarding. With the right planning, guidance, and a healthy dose of awareness, Zimbabwe is a destination that will stay with you long after your return. You’ll leave with memories of roaring waterfalls, silent elephant encounters at sunset, and voices excitedly engaging around a campfire. But more than anything, you’ll remember the people who made sure your journey was not just safe, but unforgettable! I will continue to recommend Zimbabwe as one of my favourite countries to visit, as I want more people to fall in love with the destination, the way I have!
