Zimbabwe Travel Risk

Exercise increased caution in Zimbabwe due to crime and official harassment of U.S. citizens.

Opportunistic crime, such as pickpocketing, theft, and smashing of car windows with intent to steal, is common. Violent crime, such as assault, carjacking, and home invasion, also occurs. Criminals often target foreigners and residents suspected of having large sums of cash.

Demonstrations may occur and increase in frequency around political events, such as elections. Large gatherings are often restricted by the government and can quickly escalate to violence.

• Foreigners, journalists, and non-governmental organizations may be subject to heightened scrutiny in Zimbabwe.
• Review the Travel Guidance for additional information on travel to Zimbabwe.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Zimbabwe.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Zimbabwe

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Zimbabwe, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation

Demonstrations and rallies can be unpredictable and may turn violent. Authorities have in the past used force to suppress them. Avoid political gatherings or activities which could be considered political, including political discussions in public places or online.

It is illegal to make derogatory or insulting comments about the President or to carry material considered to be offensive towards the office of President.

This section has safety advice for regions of Zimbabwe. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Rural areas

There continue to be occasional invasions of commercial farms, sometimes accompanied by violence and threats. Take care when visiting farming areas that you are not familiar with.

Mining areas

Mining areas are often restricted. Turn back if you are stopped and told that you are not allowed to access a particular area.

Risk level

Zimbabwe - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Zimbabwe due to crime.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Demonstrations and civil unrest may occur. They usually take place in the central business district and high density suburbs of major cities such as Harare and Bulawayo. They have led to violence in the past.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Don’t attempt to cross roadblocks, even if they appear unattended
• Always carry photo identification, such as your passport, with you

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Marange mining area

Security forces restrict the access to the Marange diamond mining fields in Chiadzwa, Mutare.

Don’t attempt to enter the area.

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs regularly. Crime also includes incidents such as:

• muggings
• house robberies
• passport theft
• carjacking

Highway robberies are common, particularly at night. Robberies from vehicles have occurred on the road to and from the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and when travelling through the Beitbridge area. There is also an increased risk of crime near the border with Mozambique.

In addition, you should particularly cautious:

• in large cities such as Harare and Bulawayo
• at tourist sites such as Victoria Falls and Honde Valley waterfalls, including Mterazi Falls and Pungwe Falls
• at popular safari camps in the Hwange and Mana Pools national parks

Criminals target both foreigners and residents.

Local police are often unable to travel to the site of a reported crime. The police are likely to ask you to travel to a local police station to file a report, or to make arrangements to transport police officers to your location.

• Be vigilant and avoid travelling alone at all times
• Avoid walking after dark
• Be particularly cautious when leaving banks and after using ATMs
• Drive to the nearest police station if you suspect that you are being followed by an unknown driver
• Drive with your doors locked and windows up at all times
• Park in a guarded parking lot overnight
• Ensure that your personal belongings are secure at all times

津巴布韦风险等级为蓝色（低风险）