Southern Africa Travel Guide
Essential travel information for Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana & Namibia. Visas, currency, health tips, and curated itineraries.
Before You Go
Essential Travel Information
Everything you need to know for a smooth Southern Africa journey.
Visas
- Most nationalities get visa on arrival ($30 USD)
- KAZA Univisa ($50) covers Zimbabwe + Zambia
- Passport valid 6+ months required
- Check visa requirements for your nationality
Currency
- USD accepted everywhere in Zimbabwe
- Bring small bills ($1, $5, $10)
- Credit cards accepted at hotels/lodges
- Ecocash mobile money popular locally
Health
- Yellow fever certificate required from endemic countries
- Malaria prophylaxis recommended (especially Nov-May)
- Travel insurance recommended
- Bring basic medications & first aid
Best Time to Visit
- May-October: Dry season (best wildlife viewing)
- November-March: Green season (lower prices, birding)
- Victoria Falls: Full flow Feb-May, low flow Oct-Dec
- Pack layers - temperature varies by region
Quick Facts
Country Information
Quick facts for planning your journey.
ZW
Zimbabwe
Capital:Harare
Currency:USD (primary), ZWL
Best time:May-October
Visa:Visa on arrival ($30)
Popular destinations
Victoria FallsHwangeGreat Zimbabwe+3
ZM
Zambia
Capital:Lusaka
Currency:ZMW, USD
Best time:May-October
Visa:Visa on arrival or KAZA Univisa
Popular destinations
LivingstoneVictoria Falls (Zambia side)Lower Zambezi+2
BW
Botswana
Capital:Gaborone
Currency:BWP, USD
Best time:June-October
Visa:Visa-free for many nationalities
Popular destinations
ChobeOkavango DeltaMoremi+2
NA
Namibia
Capital:Windhoek
Currency:NAD, ZAR, USD
Best time:May-September
Visa:Visa-free for many nationalities
Popular destinations
EtoshaSossusvleiSkeleton Coast+2
Trip Ideas
Sample Itineraries
Route ideas for your Southern Africa adventure.
7-10 daysClassic Zimbabwe Overland
Route: Harare → Great Zimbabwe → Matobo → Hwange → Victoria Falls
UNESCO Great Zimbabwe ruins
Rhino tracking in Matobo Hills
Elephant herds in Hwange
8-10 daysZimbabwe & Botswana Safari
Route: Victoria Falls → Chobe → Okavango Delta → Hwange
Chobe river cruise with elephants
Okavango mokoro trip
Walking safari in Hwange
10-14 daysFamily Zimbabwe Adventure
Route: Harare → Eastern Highlands → Matobo → Hwange → Victoria Falls
Slow pace, shorter driving days
Kid-friendly lodges with pools
School visit with Book & Pen
Ready to Explore Southern Africa?
Browse our curated experiences and start planning your adventure today.