Is Zimbabwe Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Zimbabwe, in general, is a relatively safe country with locals who are usually welcoming and peaceful. However, as a solo female traveler, it is crucial to still keep an eye out for unexpected circumstances, particularly in urban areas where petty crimes like pick-pocketing or bag-snatching can occur. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to always be aware of your surroundings. It’s advisable to arrange transportation in advance, rather than relying on local taxis at night. Always remember that exercising common sense and caution goes a long way.

Safety rating

2.7 /5

Based on 4 experiences from female travelers

2.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is Zimbabwe?

Safety at night:Unsafe

Zimbabwe generally experiences high crime rates, particularly during night hours. While Zimbabweans are hospitable and most areas are safe during daylight, it is not advisable to walk alone at night. Street lighting is erratic and it's common to not find well-lit pathways, adding to the safety risk. Utilize organized transport and avoid wandering alone after dark. Exercise increased caution and maintain a high sense of situational awareness as street crimes like muggings and pick-pocketing can occur.

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Zimbabwe, mainly composed of commuter omnibuses and long-distance buses, is quite a mixed bag in terms safety. While generally most routes are okay during daytime, you might encounter some unruly and dodgy behavior in certain areas especially during night hours. Taxis are considered safer, but always ensure to use registered ones. Overall, maintaining caution and vigilance during travel is advisable.

Street harassment:Low

Generally, the streets of Zimbabwe are relatively safe for solo female travelers. While occasional glances or comments may occur, most locals respect personal space. It's common to interact friendly with locals, but bear in mind to use your judgment based on the situation and environment.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Zimbabwe, like many countries around the world, also faces issues of petty crimes. These often take the form of pickpocketing, bag snatching, or theft from accommodations or parked cars. Travelers are generally advised to take standard precautions such as keeping their valuables hidden, not displaying expensive jewellery and gear, and securing their accommodations.

Is Zimbabwe worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.3 /5

based on 4 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4/5

Safety

2.7/5

Food

2.8/5

Budget-friendly

2.6/5

Zimbabwe, Group travel

I felt safe in Zimbabwe even though it was expensive at times we never felt unsafe at any given time. Ubers were easy to access, some places you could walk to. The food was 50/50 for me I didn’t quite like it.

Posted: June 7, 2025

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Harare, Solo travel

I enjoyed my experience in Harare and did feel safe in certain locations, except for the CBD. The CBD can be a little unsettling, especially of its your first time in Harare. Overall, I enjoyed and accomplished my goals there.

Posted: April 23, 2024Experienced: October, 2023

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Zimbabwe, Solo travel

I highly recommend a safari in Zambezi National Park. When I was there, we were always the only jeep on site, unlike other parks, which were crowded with tourists and full of jeeps. It was a truly unique, peaceful experience that allowed us to enjoy the animals and the landscape.

Posted: May 22, 2023

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Victoria Falls, Solo travel

Victoria Falls is a tiny town, easy to stroll around. It only consists of a few short streets and of course a few hotels + a huge campsite with bungalows, which is fine if you're on a tight budget. I 100% recommend swimming in the Devil's Pool, at the top of the waterfall. I did it on the Zambia side, and it took me about 2 hours altogether, including a boat trip to Livingstone Island and a light meal served later on the island.

Posted: May 22, 2023

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Is Zimbabwe safe for women?

Masvingo Province

Masvingo is a small and peaceful town with a low crime rate. You can move around town freely without worrying about being mugged or harrassed. It is safe to move around town in the evening, though most businesses are closed by 7pm.

Posted: August 28, 2024

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Harare

It’s not too bad. Beware of petty theft and be aware of your surroundings. Don’t walk alone at night or in quiet streets. Try avoid the centre. I wouldn’t really hitch hike. Be very careful of driving here with the bad roads and bad drivers also the traffic lights don’t often work due to power cuts

Posted: March 12, 2024

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