Newsgroups: wstd.travel.advisories From: 76702.1202@CompuServe.COM (Charlie Smith) Subject: *NEW* TRAVEL INFORMATION -- Zimbabwe Organization: The World @ Software Tool & Die Distribution: wstd Date: Fri, 8 Jan 1993 17:49:08 GMT STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Zimbabwe ============================================================ Zimbabwe - Consular Information Sheet January 8, 1993 Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy is located at 172 Herbert Chitepo Avenue, P.O. Box 3340, in the capital city of Harare. The telephone number is (263-4) 794-521. In emergency situations during non-working hours, a duty officer can be contacted through the Marine Security Guard on duty at the U.S. Embassy. Country Description: Zimbabwe is a land-locked southern African country with extensive tourist facilities. Entry Requirements: A passport is required. Although no visa is required to enter Zimbabwe, immigration authorities require the following: a firm itinerary; sufficient funds to support the visit; and a return ticket to the United States. Onward tickets to non-U.S. destinations may not suffice. If these requirements are not met, immigration authorities can order departure by the next available flight. Travelers can obtain further information regarding entry requirements by contacting the Embassy of Zimbabwe, 1608 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20009; telephone (202) 332-7100. Areas of Instability: Security conditions are uncertain along the Mozambique border, because of long-running conflict in that country. Travel outside main tourist areas near the eastern border of Zimbabwe is therefore potentially hazardous. The Gonarezhou National Park in southeast Zimbabwe remains closed to the public. Medical Facilities: Medical facilities in Zimbabwe are limited. Some medicine is in short supply. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Not all U.S. medical insurance is valid outside the United States. Travelers have found supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage to be of use. Zimbabwe is suffering greatly from the AIDS pandemic. Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline, telephone (404) 332-4559. Information on Crime: Muggings, purse snatchings and break-ins are an increasing problem in Harare and Bulawayo. Thieves often operate in downtown Harare, especially in crowded areas, and on public transportation. Useful information on safeguarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad", available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Shortages: The worst southern African drought in this century has seriously reduced hydroelectric output, resulting in nationwide blackouts which can last hours at a time. In-country Travel: Intercity bus travel can be dangerous due to overloading of buses, inadequate maintenance, unskilled drivers and occasional cases of drivers operating buses while intoxicated. When driving in cities, individuals generally keep windows rolled up and doors locked. Scheduled air travel is available to several cities and tourist destinations throughout Zimbabwe. Currency Regulations: Currency transactions are strictly regulated. Tourists must declare to Zimbabwe customs all currency and travelers checks with which they enter the country. Failure to declare can mean confiscation of the currency or checks as well as a fine. Restrictions on Photography: Zimbabwean authorities are extremely sensitive about photographing certain locations and buildings, including government offices, airports, military installations, official residences and embassies. Arrest or Detention: U.S. consular officials are not always granted quick access to Americans detained by Zimbabwean police. U.S. Embassy protests to the government of Zimbabwe have not improved this situation. Drug Penalties: Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines. Tips for Travelers: Further information on travel in the area is provided in the Department of State pamphlet "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa." It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402. Registration: U.S. citizens can register at the U.S. Embassy and obtain updated information on travel and security in Zimbabwe. No. 93-028 This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued December 24, 1992 to reflect the current impact on Zimbabwe of a southern African drought. Distribution: >INTERNET:travel-advisories@stolaf.edu.