Jeremy Clarkson put Zimbabwe as a headline destination when he claimed that on The Grand Tour, he’d “saved the best for last.” He wasn’t the only one who praised the country; adventure motorcyclist blogger, Itchy Boots documented her travels through the landlocked southern African country a few years ago. Now, in 2025, there are many more reasons to visit. But, what can you do to stay safe? Read on to find out.

Two Top 2025 Destinations

Recently, Kayak’s Travel Check-in report recommended Morocco and Zimbabwe as some of the best destinations in Africa. And, Travel to Our World shouted out both of them because of more than just easy flight choices. There’s much more to the region than the deserts of Namibia, and Cape Town and Kruger National Park.

While the small tea-pot shaped country might not have an ocean, they do have what they call the Inland Riviera at the world’s largest manmade lake of its time: Kariba. Popular for tiger fishing and exceptional houseboat trips with the Big 5 right there, the country also boasts Mana Pools, Hwange Game Reserve, and a great social scene. But unless you book an all-inclusive tour and prefer to go it alone, there are some things you should know.

Driving & Road Safety

If your all-inclusive tour driver picks you up and whisks you off to your lodge, you don’t need to worry about driving. But for the more adventurous traveler, you could end up hiring a car. It’s important to know that the rule of the road in the country means that you have to drive on the left-hand side of the road. That means you give way to any vehicles approaching from the right.

Some travelers from other countries are not used to that. The roads are not always in good condition, although much progress on upgrades is being done at the moment. Nevertheless, be mindful and watch out for rough edges and potholes.

You will find the occasional roundabout, but most intersections in Harare, the capital city, have traffic lights, known as robots. However, approach with caution as they don’t always work. Plus, many drivers ignore them, taking red and orange lights as a mere suggestion to slow down.

Roadblocks & Policing

Throughout the country, you will come across police-operated roadblocks. Make certain you always wear your seat belt. Stop if asked to pull over, and have your international license close to hand. Also, make sure that you always have access to your passport.

Most police officers are polite, but like those from anywhere, aggression only makes things unpleasant. A quiet greeting and some respect for the uniform go a long way. Keep to the speed limit and obey all stop signs, carry the required fire extinguisher, reflective vests, triangles, and the vehicle’s papers, and you should be fine.

Getting Around Safely

These days, new options open up, and there is now a flight direct from Harare to Mutare in the Eastern Highlands. Additionally, some rail travel for passengers has resumed. Flights also depart to Victoria Falls in the north of the country. However, if you head for the rural areas and more cultural experiences, you will probably need a car, preferably, a hired 4X4.

Try and avoid travel by bus or mini-van. Often overcrowded with a scary disregard for the rules of the road, it unfortunately results in hundreds of deaths each year. Watch out for them on the main road because they might not take much notice of solid white lines.

Another thing to watch for that is very important is the growing number of large trucks on the road. Be extremely cautious when overtaking them as it’s difficult to see oncoming traffic.

Watch Out For Animals

Additionally, watch out for livestock in farming areas, and when you reach the wilderness areas, please, do give way to wild animals like elephants. Give them their space, and they usually just wander off without any dangerous situations developing.

If you self-drive in the National Parks, pay attention to speed limits, because you never know when you might find a range of antelope, or even lions crossing the roads. Anyway, you don’t want to drive too fast or you might miss all the action on the roadside.

Apart from wild animals, you need to worry about your health. There are some excellent private hospitals in the country. But, make sure you have travel insurance to cover any such admissions. If you hire a car, your vehicle will usually have full insurance cover.

Accidents & Service Stations In Zimbabwe

If you do end up in a car accident, it is mandatory to report it to the police. You will need their reference number and a report to be able to claim back your vehicle deposit, or a portion, thereof. Also, don’t forget to make sure your hire car comes with roadside assistance. Notably, there are toll roads, so always carry small US$ notes with you because card machines might be offline or unavailable.

Oh, and before we forget: you need to know that there are no self-service gas stations in Zimbabwe. Called garages, staff will attend to your fuel needs, and very often throw in a complimentary windscreen wash. Remember, you can buy petrol or diesel, so don’t ask for gas, or the attendants will think you want to fill up a propane cooking cylinder.

It’s very likely that your travels in Zimbabwe will be a wonderful experience, but these road safety tips are an important guideline, especially if it’s your first time to the country.

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