Latest News: Government imposes lockdown in Kwekwe for two weeks because of COVID-19 variant (Xinhua, 22.05.2021).
International Restrictions:
*Entry to Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe re-opened its international airports and land borders to tourists in addition to Zimbabwean nationals and valid residence permit holders on 1 December 2020.
From 30 September 2020 visas that have been extended during the national lockdown, including diplomatic visas, temporary residence permits or employment permits, will expire. If you wish to extend or renew such visas or permits you must do so via the relevant Government of Zimbabwe department.
*Testing/screening on arrival: There are no testing facilities available on arrival. Tourists, residents and citizens entering Zimbabwe must possess a negative COVID-19 test result, issued no more than 48 hours before their departure to Zimbabwe. You should arrange to take a private test. Check with your carrier before flying to confirm any additional requirements.
*Quarantine requirements: On arrival tourists and non-residents will be required to self-quarantine for 10 days. If you do not have a negative test result, or if you exhibit COVID-19 like symptoms on arrival, you will be required to quarantine at a designated hotel at your own expense.
Citizens and residents who do not have a negative test result, or who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms on arrival will be quarantined for 10 days at a designated hotel or other designated quarantine facility at their own expense and then released once the COVID-19 test is negative.
*Data collection: You will be required to complete track and trace information on arrival in Zimbabwe.
*Exiting Zimbabwe: The Zimbabwean government has said that British nationals, including dual nationals, are allowed to exit Zimbabwe. However, if you’re travelling to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport from outside Harare, you will need to get an authorisation letter from your local police station. Take your confirmed flight ticket and your passport with you.
On leaving Zimbabwe, you will be required to present a negative COVID-19 certificate, issued no more than 48 hours prior to boarding your flight. If you have issues exiting Zimbabwe, contact the British Embassy on +263242338809.
Internal Restrictions:
*Travel in Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe is currently in indefinite lockdown. You are encouraged to defer any unnecessary travel. There is a curfew between 10pm to 5:30am, which is being enforced by the security services. You should comply with these requirements, wherever you are staying in Zimbabwe.
You should avoid any political gatherings or demonstrations. These can be unpredictable, can turn violent without notice and the response from the security forces may be disproportionate. You should exercise a high degree of caution and monitor local media and this travel advice for updates. It is compulsory to wear a face mask covering the nose and mouth whenever you are outside of your home.
Public transport is limited. Intercity travel is permitted but only for vehicles operated by the State, local authorities, ZUPCO and operators who are specially registered by the Commissioner of Road Transport. All journeys operate under current COVID-19 restrictions.
Tourists are authorised to travel between airports and designated tourist facilities. Be sure to take confirmation of your bookings with you when travelling.
*Accommodation: You should ensure you have accommodation for the period of your stay, as some hotels may close at short notice.
*Public spaces and services: People can gather in shops, offices and other business places. Up to 50 people are able to gather for religious services and up to 30 people can gather for a funeral. Marriages can now take place but only with the couple and their witnesses in attendance.
Everyone in a public place must observe social distancing (i.e. keep at least one metre apart) and wear a face mask.
All sporting activities have resumed and sports clubs re-opened.
Essential services such as hospitals, pharmacies and supermarkets remain open between 8am and 7pm only.
Restaurants have opened for sit down meals at 50% capacity and will close at 9pm. Bars and night clubs are closed. Off-licenses may sell take away alcohol only between 8am and 4:30pm. Hotel bars and restaurants able to serve hotel guests.