Last reviewed: 21 October 2026 against the official ZimParks 2026 tariff, the Gonarezhou Conservation Trust’s 2026 rates, Kariba Ferries’ 2026 fares and our reviewed guides on visas, money and communication. Prices change, often in January. Check with ZimParks or the operator before you travel.
What things cost in 2026
All park fees are from the ZimParks 2026 tariff. See the full table on park fees.
Where to sleep cheaply
ZimParks campsites and chalets
ZimParks runs campsites, chalets and lodges in most national parks. They are the best value for self-drivers. 2026 prices for international visitors:
Book through ZimParks at info@zimparks.org.zw or +263 242 707625. The prices above are for accommodation only: the park fee is extra.
Gonarezhou
The Gonarezhou Conservation Trust runs its own campsites. A developed campsite such as Chipinda Pools has a minimum charge of US$104 a night for international visitors (up to six adults), so it’s cheap if you share. Book at reservations@gonarezhou.org. See Gonarezhou.Towns
Victoria Falls, Harare and Bulawayo all have backpacker hostels, campsites and guesthouses. Prices and quality change often, so read recent reviews and book direct. See our accommodation guide.Saving money on safari
- Self-drive and camp. Splitting a car and a campsite between three people is far cheaper than a lodge. A 4x4 is needed for the remote parks. At Matobo, ZimParks says most park roads are gravel but suitable for most vehicles.
- Do a day visit. Zambezi National Park is about 6 km from Victoria Falls town, and Matobo is about 30 km from Bulawayo, so you can visit without staying overnight.
- Stay overnight where it’s cheaper. At Hwange, the overnight rate (US$12) is half the day rate (US$24).
- Share boats and guided activities with other travellers.
- Travel in the rains (roughly November to April) for lower lodge rates. But check closures: Mana Pools is largely closed in the main rains, and Gonarezhou closes completely from 10 January to 1 March.
Getting around
- Distances are long. Harare to Victoria Falls is about 878 km and Harare to Kariba about 365 km. See travel distances and transportation.
- Intercity buses and coaches link the main towns. Choose established companies, travel by day, and keep your bags close.
- Kombis (minibuses) are the cheapest local transport, but they leave when full.
- The Kariba–Mlibizi ferry crosses Lake Kariba in about 22 hours. In 2026 an adult fare is US$150 one way, with meals, and a car up to 4 m costs US$140. It replaces a drive of more than 1,250 km around the lake. See Lake Kariba.
- Car hire is often the most practical option for a group. Check the insurance, the mileage limit and whether the car may enter national parks.
Money tips
- Bring US dollars in small, clean notes. The US dollar is legal tender and used for most things. You may get change in the local currency, the ZiG.
- Change money only at banks or licensed bureaux de change.
- Card machines at remote park gates don’t always work, so carry cash for park fees.
- Don’t leave Zimbabwe with more than US$2,000 in cash.
Staying connected
Buy a local SIM from Econet or NetOne for data and calls. You need your passport to register. See communication for current bundle prices.Don’t cut these corners
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation. Many parks are hours from a hospital. See travel insurance.
- Malaria prevention in the Zambezi Valley, Hwange and the lowveld. See health and safety.
- Licensed guides for walking. See walking and canoe safaris.
- Don’t drive at night. Roads are unlit and animals and pedestrians are hard to see.
Related guides
Park fees 2026
Safari planning
Currency and money
Sources
- Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) — De-Gazetted Tariff 2026, accessed 21 October 2026
- Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) — Matobo National Park, accessed 21 October 2026
- Gonarezhou Conservation Trust — Camping in Gonarezhou National Park, accessed 21 October 2026
- Gonarezhou Conservation Trust — Frequently asked questions, accessed 21 October 2026
- Kariba Ferries — Fares (2026), accessed 21 October 2026
- Zimbabwe e-Visa portal, accessed 21 October 2026