Loading ...Zimbabwe Africa
Zimbabwe continues to make headlines for all the wrong reasons. Elections in 2008 saw the Opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) win the majority in parliament and then, in September, successfully negotiate a power-sharing arrangement between President Mugabe and MDC leader Morgan Tsvangirai. Sadly, since then, this agreement has constantly teetered on the brink of collapse. The ‘breadbasket of Africa’ is fast becoming a failed state. Millions of people are dependent on food aid, unemployment hovers around 80%, the inflation rate now stands at over 200,000,000% and many Zimbabweans, often the better educated, have been forced to flee. As if life couldn’t get any more difficult, a cholera outbreak that began in late 2008 has claimed thousands of victims and continues to worsen, spreading into surrounding countries.
But behind the grim data lies one of southern Africa’s most beautiful countries. And despite being forced to sacrifice so much, Zimbabweans have not lost their humour or resolve. With so few visiting the country, those who do can expect royal treatment. They need you. While the world’s media focuses on the fall of Zimbabwe, visitors will see a very different image of the country. From the absolute wilderness of Mana Pools National Park, the ruins of Great Zimbabwe and the mountains looking over Mozambique in Eastern Zimbabwe, to fine dining in Harare or bungee jumping over Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe offers something for everyone.
Time GMT/UTC + 2
Population 13 million (official, though up to three million Zimbabweans are thought to have emigrated since 2001)
Borders South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Mozambique
Seasons Cool, dry (May to October), warm, wet (November to April)
Telephone Country code 260
ATMs In cities (but not an economic option)
Budget US$150+ a day (up to US$450 if on safari)
Capital Harare
Visa 90 days (US$30 for most nationalities), issued at point of entry
Languages Official language: English; main national languages: Shona and Ndebele
Area 390,580 sq km
Money Zimbabwe dollar; official rate ZW$250 = US$1 (parallel/black-market rate ZW$800 = US$1)
