Africa > 🇿🇼 Zimbabwe
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Zimbabwe can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Zimbabwe; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Zimbabwe?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Zimbabwe?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in Zimbabwe
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Bulawayo | BUQ | |
| Harare | HRE | |
| Kabwe | KAB | |
| Victoria Falls | VFA |
Zimbabwe combines well-maintained main highways with more rugged terrain in game reserves and rural areas. Renting a 4×4 offers freedom and flexibility, especially for safari travel. However, distances can be great, fuel availability varies, and road conditions change outside major routes, so the decision depends on your itinerary and comfort with driving in remote areas.
🚶 When You Don’t Need a Car
If your plans focus on key tourist areas with good tour infrastructure, you can explore comfortably without driving yourself.
| Destination | Why a Car Isn’t Needed | Best Transport Option |
|---|---|---|
| Victoria Falls | Walkable town with organised tours | Shuttle, taxi, guided tours |
| Harare (city centre) | Hotels and attractions clustered | Taxi, ride-hailing apps |
| Bulawayo | Access to Matobo National Park via tour | Safari tour vehicles |
| Cross-border safaris | Often include all transport | Tour operator vehicles |
➡ Best for visitors who prefer convenience, safety, and fully guided experiences.
🚗 When Renting a Car Is the Best Option
If you plan to explore multiple national parks, rural attractions, or scenic routes, a rental car (especially a 4×4) gives you independence and access.
| Benefit | What You Can Explore |
|---|---|
| Self-drive safaris | Hwange, Mana Pools, Gonarezhou |
| Freedom to roam | Cultural sites and viewpoints |
| Scenic routes | Eastern Highlands and Lake Kariba |
| Flexibility | Choose your own pace and stopovers |
🗺️ Popular Self-Drive Routes
| Route | Highlights | Vehicle Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Harare → Hwange | Wildlife viewing, safari lodges | 4×4 recommended |
| Bulawayo → Victoria Falls | Falls, Zambezi River | Highway suitable for any car |
| Harare → Eastern Highlands | Mountains and tea estates | Standard car or SUV |
| Victoria Falls → Lake Kariba | Remote and scenic | 4×4 essential |
🚦 Driving in Zimbabwe – What to Expect
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You drive on the left-hand side
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Main highways are generally in good condition
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Fuel is available in major cities but can be limited in rural areas, so plan ahead
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Wildlife and livestock may cross roads in national parks
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Police checkpoints are common but usually straightforward; remain polite and have documentation ready
Car Rental Information
Car hire is available in Harare, Victoria Falls, and Bulawayo, from both international companies and trusted local agencies. A 4×4 is highly recommended for national parks. International Driving Permits are accepted.
🚕 Alternatives to Renting a Car
| Transport Type | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Guided safari vehicle | National parks | Professional driver and tracker included |
| Domestic flights | Long distances | Fast and scenic |
| Shuttle services | Victoria Falls region | Shared or private transfers |
| Long-distance buses | Budget travel | Available but slower and less flexible |
🌊 Dual Names for the Falls
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Victoria Falls – Named by explorer David Livingstone in 1855, in honour of Queen Victoria.
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Mosi-oa-Tunya – The original name in the local Lozi and Kololo languages, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders.”
🌐 Current Usage
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Both names are valid and in use today.
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In Zimbabwe and Zambia, the national parks are named:
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Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia side)
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Victoria Falls National Park (Zimbabwe side
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Road Safety and General Security in Zimbabwe
Since the end of Robert Mugabe’s rule in 2017, Zimbabwe has become more politically stable and generally safer for international visitors, especially in major tourist areas such as Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and the Eastern Highlands. However, travellers should still exercise caution. Road safety varies widely—main highways are usually in good condition, but rural roads can be poorly maintained, unlit at night, and shared with livestock or wildlife. Driving after dark is strongly discouraged. Police checkpoints are common, but they are usually professional and focused on safety rather than harassment. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing or theft from parked cars, can occur in urban centres, so it is wise to avoid displaying valuables. Overall, most travellers report positive and trouble-free experiences, especially when following local advice and sticking to recommended routes.
🧭 Conclusion – should you rent a car in Zimbabwe?
Renting a car in Zimbabwe is ideal for travellers seeking independence and adventure, especially when exploring national parks and rural scenery. A 4×4 provides access to wildlife areas and remote lodges, offering a true safari experience. However, if you prefer a structured trip or are visiting through organised tours, you can enjoy Zimbabwe without needing to drive. The best choice depends on whether your focus is self-driven exploration or guided safari comfort.
