bushwoman2002

Hi there; I am a very well traveled person, esp in Africa and lived in S Africa and Mali, but I didn't get to Zim with the exception of Vic Falls. ANyhew, I am keen on renting a car and driving solo through the country. If anyone has experience with this, please let me know your thoughts and suggestions...Thanks and happy trails!!

uhoh_busted

We spent about 2 weeks in Zimbabwe in 2012, so I'm not an expert, by any means. While we had transfers included in our plans, I don't think it would be difficult to drive in the vicinity of Victoria Falls (probably all the way to the border of Botswana and on to Chobe). But on the long land transfer we had between Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park (the roads seemed clear and easy) we were stopped three times by young men in uniform, asking to see all the driver's papers, licenses, etc. The driver claimed there was something that was just out of date, but paid a fine to the first fellow and GOT A RECEIPT clearly marked for why he was stopped and that he had paid the fine (in cash). The other two times, it sort of appeared as if some of these young fellows get "hired" by someone and given the uniform, but that they probably aren't paid anything and might depend on whatever cash they can get from these "fines." I was very glad we had a Zimbabwean driver.

The infrastructure in Zimbabwe is really rather dismal. People seem to get by making up jobs they can do locally - selling fruit and juices on the highway, trinkets, laundry, car repair, etc. Everyone walks. Cities and towns have intermittent water and electricity. I would be concerned about being able to stop and get gas/petrol for my vehicle. I really don't think I would consider self-driving across Zimbabwe. It is nothing like South Africa (or even Botswana), where I wouldn't find it too much of a problem.

So - that is just my opinion, but you asked!

uhoh_busted

Oh - there was very little traffic to "worry" about. But again, our experience was pretty limited. I know that Bulawayo (fairly major city) was experiencing water and electricity rationing. I've not heard that has improved any.

We also noticed when we flew back to JNB, that looking down on Zimbabwe, you did not see roads, towns, light or heavy industrial areas, which once they start to appear, indicate that you are looking down on South Africa.

uhoh_busted

Sorry - just me - I keep thinking of things to add: The people we met in Zimbabwe were all wonderful. Open, welcoming, and engaging. The only thing that seems to be working well for them right now is tourism, and I would encourage you to go...I just don't know that it is a trip I would make alone.

Lolazahra

Hi there.

I have never been to Zim so cannot comment. But based on the above advice, wondering if you ever went to Namibia. Beautiful, stark and diverse country with great roads and infrastructure set up for self-drives. Lots of info and TR's on the boards too.

Good luck.

bushwoman2002

Thanks everyone; I appreciate your input. When I lived in SA I got to travel a lot on hte continent, and I did in fact rent a car in Namibia (by myself) and drove around the country. It has wonderful infrastructure and is very safe. I know the refrain about the cops or whoever they are in Zim, it happens nearly everywhere in Africa, or at least that was my experience.

I've long been dubious about doing a lone self drive so maybe I somehow need to either find someone to go with (not likely) or figure out something entirely, like hooking up with a tour company.....