Zimbabwe

Is it Safe to Swim in the Devil's Pool at Victoria Falls?

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 02:35:00 GMT

When you go swimming at the Devil's Pool, you are literally inches away from going over the top of a huge waterfall, plunging down a 354ft (108m) drop. This is Victoria Falls on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border, where 38,430 cubic feet of water per second drops into the abyss. But there's one spot where the surging water doesn't reach, and if you know where to tread and where not to swim, you can stare death in the face.

That one spot is called The Devil's Pool.

While there are dangers associated with going swimming in the Devil's Pool, local guides will lead you there and offer their safety advice to help you have a safe and enjoyable time.

Is it safe to swim in the Devil's Pool?
Zimbabwe side
Safety at the falls
On the Zambian side
Other travel tips for Victoria Falls

Is it safe to swim in the Devil's Pool?

During the dry season (mid-August to mid-January) when the waterfalls aren't gushing (too much) over the edge, travelers can go swimming at the Devil's Pool with an organized tour group.

What many visitors don't know, is that you must swim through a small section of the Zambezi River to reach the Devil's Pool. If you aren't a strong swimmer, the guides will help you cross by joining a line holding hands. However you should be aware there is a current, which makes it a little more scary for many.

The guides will check for crocodiles or hippos before you all get in. That's right – there may be crocodiles or hippos swimming in the Zambezi River. Of couse, if the wildlife is spotted, the guides won't put you in harm's way. These animals haven't been reported in the actual Devil's Pool itself, but they could be in the shallow waters of the Zambezi.

Once you reach the pool, there is a rock lip that stops swimmers from being thrown over the edge – creating the pool of water at the top of the falls. While it is safe to swim here, it's up to travelers to not be foolish and tempt fate by going too close to the edge, or dismissing any safety advice from the guides.

Swim here at your own risk. While there have been no deaths here, accidents can happen when people slip on rocks.

On the Zimbabwe side of the falls

Traditionally, the Zimbabwean side of the falls has been the most popular place to go. It's a short walk to Victoria Falls National Park from the town, and the best views are from this side.

However, Zimbabwe's tumultuous economic situation has resulted in travelers favoring the Zambian side. It's famously reported that by 2006, hotel occupancy on the Zimbabwean side was down to 30%; while the Zambian side was at full capacity and there was rapid development of more accommodation.

But since 2011 travelers have started coming back to Zimbabwe, mostly due to cheaper accommodation and lower park fees that offer better value for money.

Victoria Falls has suffered some of the same food and fuel shortages experienced throughout Zimbabwe, but the situation is improving. Local hotel owners promise you'll find most things you need in Victoria Falls, just don't expect much choice.

Safety at the falls

The local businesses have worked hard at restoring harmony and making sure the town remains safe for travelers. There are tourist police patrolling the area, and they can be identified by their yellow vests. You'll see them everywhere around the town and at the falls.

Most hotels have security guards too, which can be handy because the local touts are very persistent. The police and the guards usually keep them at bay.

As more travelers have returned to the falls, so has the nightlife. There are breweries, restaurants and other venues to check out at night.

If you do need to get around at night, make sure you have someone with you, and take taxis to avoid walking in the dark. Not necessarily to avoid people, but to avoid any animals which may be out and about.

It's also not safe to walk the path down to the falls at night, just in case you encountered any wildlife in the dark.

On the Zambian side

Regardless of which side of the falls you're on, there's always a different view or something to attract you to cross to the other side.

If you want to go all the way across and visit the town of Livingstone on the Zambian side, you will need a Zambian entry visa and a Zimbabwean re-entry visa. All these visas can be issued on-the-spot, but allow between US $35 and US $100, depending on the type of visa you get. Many hotels can make all the arrangements for you as part of a day tripper package.

If you just want to view the falls from the middle of the bridge, you don't need any visas, just take your passport.

Extra travel safety tips for Victoria Falls

When visiting Victoria Falls, avoid getting your passport wet. A small dry bag or ziplock bag is handy for this, otherwise you may face difficulties if you try to travel using a damaged passport, and you may have to pay for a replacement
Take a spray jacket or poncho – you will get wet
So will your camera equipment, so either put it in a waterproof housing, dry bag or keep it under wraps in your bag
The hotels here no longer accept Zimbabwe Dollars. They do take US Dollars or South African Rand, and will accept credit cards. The same is not true of the small shops in the town of Victoria Falls – cash, preferably US Dollars, is the only currency. However, the situation may change, so check with your accommodation staff or travel provider prior to leaving in case the accepted currency has changed again.

Locals Laws in Zimbabwe: What Travelers Need to Know

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 01:20:00 GMT

Talking politics or taking a photo can land you in trouble with the local police.

Just like everywhere else in the world, Zimbabwe has it's own set of laws that rule what locals and travelers are and aren't allowed to do. Some of these may surprise you, so it's important to be aware, or else you may land yourself in a spot of trouble.

Here's what you need to know about local laws in Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe's local laws

The legal system isn't the fairest, so don't get yourself in trouble or you could find yourself in a very prickly situation.

Murder, treason, banditry, sabotage and terrorism are punishable by death. Juvenile male offenders may be subject to corporal punishment
Homosexuality is illegal in Zimbabwe, and penalties include imprisonment
It is against the law to wear any form of clothing made from camouflage material
You should avoid engaging in any political activity, or in activities which could be deemed as such, including political discussions in public places
It is also a criminal offence in Zimbabwe to make any derogatory or insulting comments about the President, Emmerson Mnangagwa. Anyone who says derogatory comments is liable to arrest and prosecution
Visitors have been detained under suspicion of operating as journalists without accreditation for photographing cultural sites and areas that may not immediately appear to be sensitive
Tourists may also be arrested or questioned for illegally photographing police, roadblocks, occupied commercial farms, and government buildings or military installations, official residences or embassies – including the president's palace. Prior written permission must be obtained from the appropriate government office before taking photographs of these places.

Local knowledge

Traveling through Zimbabwe can be difficult, and having some local knowledge can be seriously helpful. Even locals avoid driving outside cities at night. Avoid walking in the dark, and always take a taxi – which can be ordered from the reception of your accommodation.

There are unexploded landmines in parts of the border area with Mozambique. While extensive efforts have been made to remove unexploded landmines, it is really hard to say there are none around. Be cautious when visiting this area.

When visiting Victoria Falls, you should take care to protect your passport from exposure to water. It's likely you will face difficulties if your passport gets wet, so carry it in a zip-lock bag, or get a waterproof passport protector – otherrwise, you may have to pay for a replacement.

Hawkers and street vendors may be a nuisance near Victoria Falls. Politely say no if you are not interested, and keep walking.

Zimbabwe's cash crisis

In 2009, soaring inflation forced Zimbabwe to ditch its own currency in favor of foreign currencies, including the US Dollar, South African Rand, and Botswanan Pula. This failed in 2015 when there was a US Dollar shortage.

In June 2019, the government banned all foreign currencies to bring the Zimbabwe Dollar back to life. But this has largely failed, as the Zimdollar has fallen to black market speculation, causing its value to plummet.

Some businesses may still accept US Dollars, however the situation is currently very unpredictable.

Always check to make sure if the price is stated in USD or Zimbabwean (RTGS) dollars, as the prices are often both listed with a simple $ symbol.

International debit cards have been blocked from making cash withdrawals from ATMs. Check with your accommodation before you leave to see if they accept card payments, otherwise you will need to take enough cash with you to get you through your visit.

It is illegal to leave Zimbabwe with more than US $2,000 in cash – so whatever cash you do get out, make sure you spend it, or it's not leaving with you.

Zimbabwe's Political Situation: Tips for Travelers

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:45:00 GMT

UPDATE: Zimbabwe is currently experiencing shortages of food, fuel and money plus outbreaks of cholera and typhoid. For more information, visit our Travel Alerts page.

Zimbabwe was once an African powerhouse, a nation at the forefront of regional politics. But over successive decades, its become a country in political turmoil, split by Robert Mugabe.

But it does remain one of Southern Africa's highlights, so if you are happy to brave the political instability, then Zimbabwe may be a perfect location.

Is Zimbabwe safe to travel?

Most foreign departments warn about travel to Zimbabwe, telling tourists to reconsider their need to go there.

Politically motivated violence in rural areas, economic hardships and crime mean Zimbabwe isn't the best place to travel through.

And the problem is this crime doesn't seem like ending soon, with civil unrest now a major part of Zimbabwean society.

Tensions between MDC and ZANU-PF, the two main political parties to the power-sharing agreement, sometimes lead to politically motivated violence, especially in rural areas.

Political and social conditions are volatile and the security situation could deteriorate with little warning.

Dangers in Zimbabwe

In light of the political tensions, public demonstrations, street rallies and any political gatherings have occurred frequently. It's best to do whatever you can to do avoid large crowds.

African politics are often hostile and violent and can turn into dangerous situations for travelers very quickly.

If peaceful rallies do turn violent, police and security forces are likely to respond with violence.

On most occasions, demonstrators and bystanders are hard to distinguish and people can be hurt or killed.

And as a blanket rule, never photograph or video rallies or political gathering. Security forces are likely to target you.

Always remember, violence can escalate very quickly and Zimbabwe is definitely a hotbed for this style of danger.

Members of the security forces, so-called "war veterans" and youths associated with the ZANU-PF have in the past beaten and tortured opposition supporters, civil society activists and human rights defenders.

Residents have been known to be arrested for no reason, so don't become involved - the situation could become fatal.

What should you do to stay safe?

Remain vigilant and avoid high-density (lower-income) urban areas because of the potential for the security situation to deteriorate.

Local protests against governments can spiral out of control in these poorer areas, so just be aware of where you are.

Luckily as a traveler, you won't find yourself in these areas too often, but it can happen, so check local politics if you can.

Because of possible disruptions to the supply of goods and services, we recommend you have with you a supply of water and food to last several days.

Also carry emergency cash (US Dollar and/or South African Rand), medications and a basic first-aid kit.

This is a drastic measure, but every traveler should carry some sort of basic first-aid kit.

In Africa, you will use some sort of first aid.

Ensure your vehicle has an adequate supply of fuel and ensure mobile phones are fully charged.

Know your surroundings

Zimbabwe is a country that has suffered due to its leaders. This has made the country, particularly rural areas dangerous to travelers.

Land confiscation, forced displacement, looting of crops, theft of cattle, poaching of game and violent acts against farmers, their families and workers are common in some areas of the country.

So prepare by researching - don't go into an area with your own political views. In other words, know your audience. Zimbabwean police aren't friendly to dissidents.

How to Stay Healthy While Traveling Around Zimbabwe

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 23:52:00 GMT

UPDATE: Zimbabwe is currently experiencing shortages of food, fuel and money plus outbreaks of cholera and typhoid. For more information, visit our Travel Alerts page.

Zimbabwe like most African nations has a host of dangerous diseases. Most are easy to avoid if you follow some basic rules, and the country isn't a lot more dangerous than most of its neighbors.

So any rules you hear below are pretty general for most of Southern and Eastern Africa. So if you are aware and take preventative measures, you'll hopefully be safe and healthy.

Vaccinations recommended for Zimbabwe
Medical treatment in Zimbabwe
Mosquito borne disease in Zimbabwe
Water borne and other diseases in Zimbabwe
Other hazards in Zimbabwe

Vaccinations recommended for Zimbabwe

It is recommended that all travelers be up to date with their routine vaccinations however it is also well worth being vaccinated against the following:

Yellow Fever is not present in Zimbabwe however if you are entering the country from another country where the disease is present you will need proof of vaccination.

Medical treatment in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe's economy is almost non-existent and bad government policies have decimated what was once a powerful country. This bad economic management has killed the nation's health system.

Health services in Zimbabwe are extremely poor. Adequate treatment can be found in public and private hospitals in Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls. However, they do experience shortages of staff, water, power, medicines and equipment. Outside these main cities, medical treatment in rural areas is low quality and non-existent in some places.

The few private hospitals in Harare are likely to also require payments of up to US$2000 in cash notes before a patient is admitted.

They are unlikely to offer treatment of certain illnesses or offer assistance in an accident or emergency, however, for anything serious you will likely need to be medi-vac'd out to Johannesburg.

Medical supplies throughout Zimbabwe are very limited and some prescription medicines are not available (recently insulin) or are very expensive. In the event of a serious accident or illness, a medical evacuation to South Africa would be necessary, costing up to $25,000.

Mosquito-borne disease in Zimbabwe

Malaria

Malaria is a risk in all areas except Harare and Bulawayo.

Other mosquito-borne diseases (including filariasis) are also prevalent in Zimbabwe.

Water-borne, food-borne and other infectious diseases (including hepatitis, tuberculosis, measles, typhoid and rabies) are prevalent, with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time.

Malaria is a major killer across Africa, and for the price of a $2 mosquito net, it's wise to protect yourself.

Water-borne and other diseases in Zimbabwe

Water quality in Zimbabwe

It is not recommended to drink the local water, including what comes out of a tap. Instead, boil your water or use water purification tablets before drinking.

Typhoid

Most typhoid cases in Zimbabwe are due to poor hygiene and water contamination. The best way to prevent getting Typhoid Fever is to wash your hands often, avoid drinking tap water and never eat anything that can't be peeled or hasn't been cooked.

Cholera

Outbreaks of cholera, or other enteric diseases such as typhoid, can occur.

A severe cholera outbreak affected most of Zimbabwe between August 2008 and July 2009. Cholera deaths have decreased recently, although the disease is still present and may break out again with little warning.

We advise you to drink water only from known safe sources (eg bottled, chlorinated or boiled water) and to maintain strict hygiene standards while traveling in Zimbabwe.

Cholera can be prevented by being immunized before your trip.

Any travel doctor can help you out, so get sorted with a Cholera vaccination before you leave.

AIDS

The rate of HIV/AIDS infection in Zimbabwe is very high. In 2016, UNAIDS stated that approximately 1,300,000 people were living with HIV/AIDS in the country, however, new infections and deaths have continued to decrease since 2010. You should exercise appropriate precautions if engaging in activities that expose you to risk of infection.

Few Zimbabweans with HIV receive the treatment they need to survive, and few hospitals are equipped to provide adequate care. This means that up to 3,500 people die from AIDS-related illnesses each week.

Other hazards in Zimbabwe

The first rule, don't rush into any unknown waterways. You wouldn't do it at home, so the same drill applies in Africa.

Swimming in lakes and rivers is unsafe because of the possibility of being attacked by wildlife such as Nile crocodiles and hippos. Hippos are highly territorial and aggressive making them the most dangerous land animal in Africa, killing approximately 3000 people annually. And despite their big podgy bodies, they are quite agile animals on land and in the water.

Nile crocodiles are fast-moving opportunistic predators and don't discriminate between you or an impala. It is estimated that hundreds of people are killed each year by them however most deaths go unreported. And as they are often found in proximity to human populations such as towns and villages, it pays to be alert so you avoid putting yourself on its menu!

Snakes and scorpions are also some others to keep an eye out for especially if you are out walking or hiking. Most people are bitten on the lower leg especially if they have been walking through long grass.

To avoid being bitten it's important to wear proper hiking boots, long pants and thick socks. Gaiters may also be a good idea too. Plus remember to shake your boots out before putting them on in case a scorpion has decided that your boot makes a wonderfully cosy home. Carrying a first aid kid with compression bandages doesn't go astray just in case you or someone else is bitten.

If you do get bitten, remember: Stay calm and seek medical help quickly. Try to keep a description of the snake or scorpion concerned which will help doctors treat you with the correct anti-venom.

Crime and Scams in Zimbabwe: Essential Tips for Travelers

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 23:47:00 GMT

Zimbabwe is a very safe country for travelers. Zimbabweans by nature are very welcoming and friendly to foreigners, and the tough economic situation has not significantly affected the country’s safety for visitors.

Crime is generally not a big problem here, although random pickpocketing, smash and grabs, theft from vehicles, and scams do happen. Having been born and raised in Zimbabwe, as well as having worked in the Zimbabwean tourism industry for almost a decade, I can say that it’s very rare for foreign travelers to be victims of crime. Here are the main issues to be aware of.

Scams in Zimbabwe
Corruption
Crime and safety on the roads
Staying safe on the streets
Crime and safety in Zimbabwe's national parks
Safety tips for Zimbabwe

Scams in Zimbabwe

I've heard of several people being scammed after making a booking through non-existent travel agencies. A check on Google or Facebook is not enough; always check the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority website, as all legit travel agencies and tour operators are listed there.

Corruption

What I have observed is that corruption only surfaces when you have either incomplete papers or are traveling with an unroadworthy vehicle. The police are poorly paid and will be more than willing to accept a bribe to look the other way. If you have the correct paperwork and observe all the laws of the country, however, you shouldn’t encounter any demands for bribes.

Zimbabwe has a very heavy police presence, with several roadblocks on the highways and police officers patrolling on foot, bicycle, and motorcycle. Cases of police brutality are only related to politically sensitive issues and impact locals, never tourists. All police officers in Zimbabwe are trained to identify themselves before engaging you and carry plastic identity cards with their pictures and force number. Any request for payment for any service offered by the police is illegal.

Crime and safety on the roads

Most roads in Zimbabwe are not maintained, and therefore speeding is not advised. I have lost several tires to potholes, especially during the rainy season when they become deeper, fill with water, and are more difficult to dodge.

Cases of vehicle theft are sporadic in Zimbabwe, but due to the multiple roadblocks, any vehicle thief would be quickly apprehended. Cases of smash and grab (where thieves break a window and grab valuables) have been reported in the main cities at night, especially at traffic lights, but these are not very common.

Staying safe on the streets

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and mugging have been recorded but generally haven't involved travelers. This is because petty crimes like these often take place in crowded places in the ghettos or in downtowns, which aren't where tourists typically go, and because Zimbabweans hate thieves. Just a shout of "Mbavha/thief!!!" will trigger a swift chase to return any stolen goods to the rightful owner. I once lost a phone to a pickpocket in downtown Harare, but unfortunately realized it too late to raise the alarm.

Like most countries in Africa, walking at night in unlit areas or dark alleys is not advised, as most muggings happen at night. But this is only a concern in big cities and hardly the case in resort towns such as Victoria Falls and Kariba, where the only security risk for lone pedestrians is from wild animals.

Crime and safety in Zimbabwe’s national parks

National parks are generally safe for visitors for two main reasons: location and access control. Most parks are located far from villages and access is strictly monitored; every person (and vehicle) is registered upon entry and exit, hence tracking a criminal would be very easy. Also, most of the national parks, especially in the Eastern Highlands, are believed to be sacred by the locals, which dissuades any mischief.

The only criminals in national parks are poachers, who target creatures with valuable horns or tusks such as elephants and rhinos; unless one has ivory tusks, there is no threat to a traveler's safety from these criminals. But do be vigilant, as baboons have been known to snatch food and handbags, mainly from women and children. Once a baboon grabs something, recovery is often almost impossible.

Safety tips for Zimbabwe

Always be aware of your surroundings, familiarize yourself with local rules and customs, and comply with all laws, including but not limited to traffic regulations and personal conduct (nudity, pornography, public drinking, and public urinating are all illegal
Some tourist/cultural heritage sites have unwritten customs, so always consult with your guide or any custodian of the place on the do's and don'ts
Always travel with the correct paperwork. Before embarking on a journey, make sure your vehicle has spare tire(s), vehicle registration books, valid insurance and a serviced fire extinguisher
Always ask to see identification from anyone asking to check your papers, and don’t engage with anyone who lacks official identification or offers to help you avoid legal requirements
Avoid interfering in local political activities (rallies, demonstrations, protest marches etc.)
Always travel with your passport/identity documents (note: your passport is never requested at a roadblock, unless there is a severe need to do so, i.e., your car has been flagged as stolen or carrying contraband. Passports are requested when using national parks facilities.)
Never agree to an offer to provide a service you're supposed to pay for at a ridiculously lower fee (it's almost always a scam or corrupt scheme)
Avoid displaying/leaving valuables such as phones, laptops, and cash in unattended cars. Also, put away all valuables at night when approaching traffic lights to avoid attracting smash and grab thieves