I’ll be honest, I was hesitant to enter Zimbabwe. Let’s face it, Zimbabwe hasn’t earned any awards recently for: Best Example by a World Leader, Most Stable Currency or 365 Days With No Government Corruption.
So it was with some trepidation and excitement that I decided to cross the border for the day to see Victoria Falls. I was travelling alone, knew very little about what to expect and am sure many of you may be in the same situation.
So here’s some tips on what to expect when crossing the border on the Victoria Falls Bridge from Zambia to Zimbabwe.
1. Exiting Zambia
Your departure from Zambia is pretty straightforward. You’ll walk into the border post, have your passport stamped and receive a pass to proceed through the gate.
Be certain that you have a double or multiple-entry visa to return to Zambia (if that’s your plan). Otherwise you’ll have to pay for a second single-entry visa.
Keep a lookout for individuals wishing to assist you with your entry into Zimbabwe. Politely decline their services and move-on. You don’t need an escort.
2. The Long Walk to Zimbabwe
You’ve passed through the gate and are now on your way to the Zim (short for Zimbabwe) border post. You’ve officially left Zambia, but haven’t arrived into Zim. The area that you’re in now is nicknamed, “No Man’s Land”. It’s a long walk from the Zambia Border Post to the Zim Border Post. With no interruptions, it may take you 15 minutes.
Along the way you’ll be approached by individuals trying to sell you copper bracelets, Zim Currency and other African Curious. Purchase at your discretion, but be careful displaying any valuables, especially if you are traveling alone. The road is long and windy and for the solo traveler, it’s possible you could find yourself alone with these strangers. I’m not saying that they’ll attempt a theft, but don’t be naive either.
If you have the courage, take a dive off the Victoria Falls Bridge with a Bungee Cord – or live through the experience vicariously through those that do!
3. At the Zim Border Post
Border posts are small buildings. They’re not fancy, but quite simple. I’ve read that lines can be long, but on the day of my visit, there was only 1 person in front of me. After filling out immigration forms, handing the officer $30 (U.S. Cash Only), I was officially in Zimbabwe.
I was prepped to anticipate bribery by the Zimbabwe Immigration Officials. A common trick is to tell travelers, “You’re missing a page in your passport”. That’s code for “place some cash in-between those pages and I’ll let you through.” To get around this, ask for an Immigration Supervisor to assist you. Chances are, the officer will let you through without needing any intervention.
I was prepared for this encounter, but didn’t need to act. I found Zimbabwe Immigration friendly, professional and more pleasing than U.S. Immigration!
4. While in Zimbabwe
Congratulations, you’ve made it to Zimbabwe. Grab some lunch at the Victoria Falls Hotel or enjoy Vic Falls from the western viewpoint. Both are a quick 10-minute walk (down another long, windy road with vendors selling you things you don’t need). No taxi’s are needed.
Make the best of your newest stamp in your passport.
5. Your Return Home
It’s just as easy on your return home as it is on your way there.
The only item you may want to consider is how you’ll get from the Zambian Border Post to your hotel. I arrived after Victoria Falls National Park had closed, which meant there was not a taxi to be found anywhere (read more here).
Eventually I found one, but it would have been a long walk alone had I arrived later. Check what time the sun sets too. You don’t want to be crossing borders in the dark.
Overall, crossing borders was easy breezy. Do you have any additional advice? Share by commenting.
