🐾 Traveling to Zimbabwe with Pets
Pet-Friendly Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe offers unique opportunities for pet owners, particularly in urban areas and private reserves. While national parks restrict pets due to wildlife, cities like Harare and Victoria Falls have pet-friendly hotels and parks. Always check specific venue policies as accommodations vary.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Import Permit
All pets require an import permit from Zimbabwe's Department of Veterinary Services, applied for at least 30 days before travel.
Include details on pet's breed, age, and vaccination history; fee around $50 USD.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry.
Vaccination certificate must be endorsed by a government veterinarian in the country of origin.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Include microchip number on all documentation; scanners available at entry points.
Health Certificate
Veterinary health certificate issued within 7-30 days of travel, confirming pet is free of infectious diseases.
May require additional tests for ticks or other parasites; contact Zimbabwe embassy for specifics.
Restricted Breeds
Certain breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers may face restrictions or require special permits.
Declare breed on import application; muzzles may be required for larger dogs at entry.
Other Pets
Birds and exotic animals need CITES permits if applicable; quarantine may be required for non-traditional pets.
Rabbits and rodents generally allowed with standard health checks; verify with veterinary services.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Zimbabwe on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Harare & Victoria Falls): Urban hotels like Holiday Inn and Protea welcome pets for $10-20 USD/night, with nearby green spaces. Chains often have consistent policies.
- Lodges & Safari Camps (Hwange & Mana Pools): Private reserves allow pets in select lodges; no extra charge but leashed at all times. Avoid national park core areas.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb listings in cities frequently permit pets, offering space for pets to move freely. Rural cottages are ideal for relaxed stays.
- Farmstays & Guesthouses: Eastern Highlands farms welcome pets and families, with animal interactions. Authentic experiences in rural settings for $50-80 USD/night.
- Campsites & Lodges: Many campsites near Lake Kariba are pet-friendly with designated areas. Victoria Falls camps offer river views and pet walks.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end lodges like Victoria Falls Hotel provide pet amenities including walking services and special menus for $20-50 USD extra.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
National Parks & Reserves
Private game reserves near Hwange allow leashed pets on guided walks; national parks prohibit pets to protect wildlife.
Check with operators for pet policies; focus on buffer zones for safe exploration.
Rivers & Lakes
Zambezi River walks and Lake Kariba shores have pet-friendly sections for swimming and picnics.
Victoria Falls area offers trails; keep pets leashed near water to avoid crocodiles.
Cities & Parks
Harare Gardens and Victoria Falls parks welcome leashed dogs; outdoor markets allow pets.
Bulawayo’s Centenary Park is ideal for family pet walks with shaded areas.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Urban cafés in Harare and Victoria Falls often have outdoor seating for pets with water bowls.
Ask before entering; pet-friendly spots cluster around tourist areas.
City Walking Tours
Guided walks in Harare and Bulawayo welcome leashed pets; cultural sites are accessible.
Avoid indoor attractions; focus on outdoor historical tours.
Boat Trips
Some Zambezi sunset cruises allow small pets in carriers; fees $5-10 USD.
Book pet-friendly operators; larger pets may need private charters.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (NRZ): Pets travel in carriers free on passenger trains; larger dogs require tickets ($5-10 USD) and must be leashed. Limited services between major cities.
- Buses & Minibuses (Urban): Intercity buses like Intercape allow small pets in carriers; larger dogs $2-5 USD with leash. Avoid crowded local kombis.
- Taxis: Negotiate with drivers; most accept pets for small fees. Use apps like Bolt in Harare for pet-friendly options.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Avis allow pets with deposit ($50 USD) and cleaning fee. 4x4 vehicles recommended for rural areas.
- Flights to Zimbabwe: Check airline pet policies; South African Airways and Fastjet allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review specific carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for $50-100 USD each way. Larger dogs in hold with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Clinics in Harare (Avenues Veterinary) and Victoria Falls offer 24-hour care.
Travel insurance recommended; consultations $30-100 USD.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Pet shops in major cities stock food and meds; import specialty items if needed.
Pharmacies carry basic treatments; bring prescriptions.
Grooming & Day Care
Services in Harare for $15-40 USD per session; limited in rural areas.
Hotels can recommend local groomers.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in cities for day/overnight; $10-20 USD/day.
Lodges may offer sitting during safaris.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in urban areas and near wildlife; off-leash only in designated private spaces.
- Muzzle Requirements: Larger dogs may need muzzles in public transport or crowded areas; carry one.
- Waste Disposal: Carry bags and dispose properly; fines up to $50 USD for littering.
- Beach & Water Rules: Zambezi areas restrict pets near swimming zones; respect wildlife distances.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating common for pets; keep quiet and controlled.
- National Parks: Pets prohibited in core areas; use private concessions only.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe for Families
Zimbabwe captivates families with wildlife safaris, natural wonders, and cultural heritage. Safe for children, attractions like Victoria Falls and game parks offer adventure and education. Facilities include family rooms and kid programs in tourist areas.
Top Family Attractions
Victoria Falls
World-famous waterfall with rainforest walks, devil's pool, and helicopter tours.
Entry $20-50 USD adults, $10-20 kids; family packages available year-round.
Hwange National Park
Elephant herds and big game safaris with guided drives for all ages.
Day fees $20 USD/person; lodges offer family game viewing.
Great Zimbabwe Ruins
Ancient stone city with guided tours and museum for history buffs.
Tickets $15 USD adults, $8 kids; interactive exhibits for children.
Mana Pools National Park
Canoe safaris and walking tours spotting hippos and lions.
Family-friendly with ranger guides; $30 USD entry.
Matobo National Park
Rhino tracking, rock climbing, and ancient bushman paintings.
Activities $50-100 USD/family; suitable for kids 6+.
Zambezi River Cruises
Sunset boat trips with wildlife viewing and dinner options.
$25-40 USD/person; life jackets for kids provided.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Zimbabwe on Viator. From Victoria Falls tours to safari adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Victoria Falls & Harare): Resorts like Ilala Lodge offer family suites for $150-250 USD/night with pools and kids' activities.
- Safari Lodges (Hwange): Family tents and chalets with game drives; all-inclusive $300-500 USD/night for families.
- Farm Holidays: Eastern Highlands guesthouses with animal feeding for $60-100 USD/night including meals.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering in cities with kitchens for $80-150 USD/night.
- Youth Hostels & Camps: Budget options in Bulawayo for $40-70 USD/night with family dorms.
- Luxury Lodges: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge with family balconies overlooking the spray.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Harare with Kids
National Gallery, Lion & Cheetah Park, and Harare Gardens picnics.
Markets and craft workshops engage young artists.
Victoria Falls with Kids
Waterfall walks, elephant interactions, and Livingstone Island swims.
Family boma dinners with cultural dances.
Bulawayo with Kids
Matobo rhino safaris, railway museum, and Chipangali Wildlife Sanctuary.
Rock art tours spark imagination.
Masvingo (Great Zimbabwe)
Ruins exploration, Lake Kyle boating, and hippo viewing.
Easy trails for little explorers.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Children under 5 free; 5-12 half-price on NRZ. Space for strollers limited.
- City Transport: Minibuses and taxis; family shuttles $10-20 USD/day in tourist areas.
- Car Rentals: Child seats $5-10 USD/day; required for under 12. 4x4 for safaris.
- Stroller-Friendly: Urban areas accessible; rough roads in rural spots challenge strollers.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Lodges offer simple meals $5-10 USD; high chairs available.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Bomas with buffets and shows; markets for casual eats.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets stock baby needs; fresh produce at markets.
- Snacks & Treats: Local fruits and biltong for on-the-go energy.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In hotels and malls; limited in rural areas.
- Pharmacies: Stock formula and diapers; English-speaking staff.
- Babysitting Services: Lodge-arranged for $10-15 USD/hour.
- Medical Care: Clinics in cities; travel insurance essential.
♿ Accessibility in Zimbabwe
Accessible Travel
Zimbabwe is improving accessibility in tourist areas with ramps at major sites. Victoria Falls and lodges offer wheelchair-friendly paths; plan ahead for rural spots.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: Limited wheelchair access; assistance at major stations.
- City Transport: Taxis accommodate wheelchairs; shuttles in Vic Falls.
- Taxis: Book accessible vehicles; 4x4 options for rough terrain.
- Airports: Harare and Vic Falls provide assistance and ramps.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: Great Zimbabwe has partial ramps; Vic Falls trails accessible.
- Historic Sites: Matobo viewpoints wheelchair-friendly.
- Nature & Parks: Safari lodges offer adapted vehicles.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May-Oct) for safaris and mild weather; wet season (Nov-Mar) for lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
Avoid peak heat (Sep-Oct) with young kids.
Budget Tips
Combo tickets for parks; self-drive safaris save costs.
Picnics and local eateries keep expenses low.
Language
English official; Shona/Ndebele common. Tourist areas English-friendly.
Basic greetings appreciated.
Packing Essentials
Light clothes, sunscreen, hats; malaria prophylaxis. Pet: tick prevention, leash, records.
Useful Apps
Google Maps, EcoTourism apps for safaris; WhatsApp for bookings.
Health & Safety
Vaccinations required; safe water in cities. Dial 112 for emergencies.