We are scheduled to go to Vic Falls in August and stay on the Zim side.

Just wondering if anyone has actually been there since the elections and if so, I'd appreciate your take on the situation.

Thanks

Just to add a related (non-hijacking) question, we're scheduled to go to Vic Falls, Mana Pools and Hwange in August *2009*. Should we just keep the reservations and wait to see how things play out? To the extent I believe what's in the New York Times, the situation in the cities seems bleak. Thanks.

ttt

I'd be interested in any news actually experienced.

We have a trip planned to Zimbabwe for two weeks this May - to Vic Falls and Hwange. We also plan to spend some time in Harare (with family). I will update you on conditions in the country on our return at the end of May.

Our family in Zimbabwe assures us that even with the current political standoff, the major tourist areas (which of course include Vic Falls, Hwange and Mana), are very peaceful and safe.

Hold thumbs for us. Dombawera

Thank you, Dombawera.

I will appreciate hearing from you when you return.

I wish you safe travel and a good visit with your family.

ttt

If it was me, I'd watch the situation veeeeery carefully until the final election, June 27. Mugabe just threw out all the NGOs(non-governmental organizations), charities that are responsible for feeding about 25% of Zim's people. Plus they are detaining foreign diplomats and threatening to kill them. Vic Falls is normally safe for tourists, but the siuation is deteriorating by the minute. IMO you also might want to consider whether you want to support the current brutal regime by giving them your hard currency. I susoect your TA or ground operator will reschedule your trip if things get much worse.
Leslie

I just spoke to a friend in Vic Falls (Zimbabwean). Other that the regular money problems, and that the military/police would not allow Tsvansgirai to hold a scheduled election rally last weekend, everything is as normal. I just sent off some $$ for my friend to pay his rent for his family, as the tourist population is so low that they are having troubles (he is an artist who works in a stall in the strip mall in Vic Falls town, and his Dad has a stall across the street in the mall by the crocodile in the enclosure). I would go right now if I could afford it, but I am rather brave. For those with plans for 2009- keep them!!!

LAleslie,

I know what you're saying about supporting the govt. but I also know that tourism is the only thing that is "supporting" some of the people.

We contribute to many charities that work on the African continent but now in Zimbabwe they've been sent packing.

So, what to do? Right now we're waiting it out to see what happens after the runoff. We won't put ourselves in potential danger when it's just a matter of seeing the Falls from the Zambia side. But we do not want to abandon Zim. if we can avoid it. We continue to pray for the people & their country.

According to this morning's Wall Street Journal, all opposition rallies before the runoff election have been prohibited. Pro-Mugabe rallies are allowed. Food is being distributed to Mugabe supporters. In opposition areas, food is only distributed to people who hand in their voter registration cards, which will prevent them from voting in the runoff.

jbella,
For sure it's a personal decision. Mixing politics and travel is complex and painful. Normally I'd vote for spending tourism dollars directly on the locals. But in this particular case, as harsh as it seems, it seems like things will only get better after they get worse. It's painful to say, but only when there's nothing left will it hasten the end of this nightmare by forcing world opinion to pressure Mugabe and for Zimbabweans to rise up. Though that's a bit difficult when you're starving and the other guys have all the guns.
Whatever you decide, have a wonderful time.
Leslie

I'm topping this because of the recent activity on another post about the safety at Vic Falls.

We've decided to stay on the Zambia side but will still fly into Vic Falls and do a transfer.

It's been a hard decision to make.

Thanks to everyone for your input.