Geography and climate

Zimbabwe is Africa's paradise. It is a land locked country of over 13 million people. It boasts of many natural resources, the world's seventh wonder, the mighty Victoria Falls, an abundance of wildlife, huge national park reserves, and also the famous Great Zimbabwe ruins that are dated back to the 13th and 15th centuries A.D. The geography is diverse with lush green mountains, forests and waterfalls of the Eastern Highlands; contrasted with the dry, hot region near Lake Kariba. Zimbabwe is south of equator; therefore the seasons are the reverse of those in the Northern Hemisphere with summer at Christmas and winter lasting from May to August.

Winter days [May to August] are generally dry and sunny [of course it doesn't snow] with temperatures averaging 15 - 20 degrees C. Light to medium weight clothing is generally acceptable with a warm coat for outdoors as there are no central heating systems. During summer [September to January] temperatures average 25 - 30 degrees C. during the day, with October being the hottest month when temps can exceed 35 degrees C. Light casual clothing is appropriate and wearing a hat and sunscreen is recommended. During the rainy season [November – March], a light raincoat, umbrella or parka is sufficient.

Culture and language

Although English is the recognized language, most Zimbabweans speak either Shona or Ndebele, their tribal tongues. The main tribes are Shona and Ndebele. There are small groups of Tonga, whites, and Asians. In rural Zimbabwe, people live in mud and thatched huts, cook over open fires and use candles and kerosene. Witchcraft and ancestral worship is still practiced in much of Zimbabwe’s majority being Christian. It is in great need of Biblical teaching and discipleship.

One quarter of the 13 million people have HIV/AIDS. Life expectancy is 30 – 35 years. When a man proposes in marriage, he must still pay lobola (bride price) to the family of the bride, usually in the form of cattle. Although corruption and crime are on the increase, it is relatively safe to live in Bulawayo as long as you follow common sense rules and take the necessary precautions.

Health requirements

Please consult your doctor about requirements. Anti-malaria tablets are recommended if you are travelling to any of the lower lying places in the country. The anti-malaria tablets are inexpensive and are available in any drug store in Zimbabwe and should be taken just before, during and after a visit of any malaria zones. All water in towns and hotels and swimming pools is purified central water supplies or bore holes and is perfectly safe; however, you are advised not to use water from the country’s rivers and dams for swimming and drinking as it may be infected with bilharzias. Health care in Zimbabwe is very expensive. You may wish to take an insurance to cover your trip. Bring any prescription medication that you will need during the time of your stay.

Electricity / power supply

Electricity runs on 220 volts AC Outlets are of the three-pin amp type. Appropriate converters are recommended. We do sometimes experience some power cuts, especially the rain season, flashlights/torch are a must.

Entry / airport Formalities

You are required by the Zimbabwean immigration to have a valid passport, pay a US$ visa fee on arrival at the airport (depending on your nationality), posses a return ticket and prove sufficient funds to cover your stay in Zimbabwe. All visitors/students will be required to pay an equivalent US$30 when leaving the country by air. On arrival at Harare or Bulawayo airport you will be asked by the immigration to give a reason for your visit. Please write visiting friends or holiday. DO NOT PUT WORK. You will have to give a physical address of where you will be staying. [Please request this info before travel.]

Currency / Banking policies

Zimbabwe's unit of currency is the Zimbabwe dollar. The recent economic crisis has seen inflation rise to over a thousand %. It's predicted that the rates and inflation will continue to rise, so check current exchange rates before coming. It is advisable to bring your currency in United States dollars. Banking is reliable but prepare for long queues. Traveler's cheques or major credit cards are accepted and can be used to purchase goods or obtain cash advances. ATMs are available in bigger cities, but check the service charges with your bank before using this as a regular means of banking in Zimbabwe.

Recommended clothing

Most Zimbabweans dress neat and smart. The African women wear dresses, skirts or wraparound, although the dress code in Bulawayo is very mixed, with many people wearing current western-style clothing. We advise ladies to bring modest, but simple skirts, dress (knee length or longer) and blouses, for any ministry and outreach opportunities in the rural areas. Men are required to wear long cotton trouser; collared shirts with tie for ministry only. Casual trousers, jeans, shorts and T-shirts can be worn on the base and during work duties and during your free time [both men and women]. Comfortable sandals and a good pair of walking shoes are a must please limit your clothing as living space limited and you may be washing everything by hand; also your luggage limitations may be strict.

Communication: email / phone / fax

There are several Internet cafes in town all you need is to look around for fast and reliable ones. The computers can sometimes be very slow! The landline at the ywam base has not been working the whole of this year but there is a mobile phone for the base. The Fountain of Hope landline is working. There are also faxes in town where you can do your faxes and pay a fee for the service.