When to go
Zimbabwe has a warm climate year round. For optimum game viewing the best time to visit is the dry winter period May to October, with warm sunny days, cool nights and excellent animal sightings as they congregate around the diminishing water sources. December through April is a time of plenty, mammals give birth and migrant birds arrive in droves. Expect sudden short downpours followed by warm sunshine. The parks transform miraculously during the rains – from dry, bleak terrain into verdant woodland.
Getting there
Air Zimbabwe is the only direct carrier to Zimbabwe with twice weekly flights from London Gatwick. Kenya Airways flies daily to the capital Harare via Nairobi. There are daily flights via Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, Bulawayo and Harare on SAA, BA and Virgin. From these hubs, a flight network takes you to the wilderness areas.
Time Zone
GMT +2 hours
Visas
British citizens can obtain visas on arrival at a cost of US$55.
Health
There are no compulsory requirements. Zimbabwe is a malarial area and precautions should be taken. Always consult your doctor at least six weeks before travel and refer to this useful NHS website for details of recommended vaccinations for your destination.