The currency of Zimbabwe is the Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL), which is abbreviated as ZWL$ and often represented with the symbol "$" or "Z$". The Zimbabwean Dollar is divided into cents, and banknotes come in various denominations.
Here is a reference table of approximate exchange rate (for up-to-date exchange rates, please check xe.com before you travel):
| 1 Unit of currency | Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL) |
| AU$1 | 40,331 |
| NZD$1 | 36,644 |
| US$1 | 63,647 |
Correct as of December 2024
Plan ahead
Be prepared with enough cash in hand for the next few days. Once you have started your tour, you will quickly get a sense of how often or how much you need to exchange money. Try not to leave this to the last minute: exchange desks can close, ATMs can run out of cash and your group could be scheduled to leave your hotel at 7am tomorrow morning!
Exchanging Money
We recommend exchanging money prior to departure at banks, money exchanges, or at international airports in Australia. While it is possible to exchange money at your arrival airport in Zimbabwe and some banks in major cities like Harare and Victoria Falls, we recommend bringing US dollars (USD) as they are more widely accepted throughout the country. You can also exchange foreign currency at official bureaux de change or banks, but be aware that exchange rates may vary, so it’s advisable to check current rates before exchanging your money.
Access to Money
When traveling in Zimbabwe, it's important to be aware of currency regulations. While foreign currency is widely accepted, it's advisable to carry local currency for smaller purchases.
Credit cards are generally accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, but it’s a good idea to have cash on hand, especially in rural areas. ATMs are available in major cities, but ensure you notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid issues with card usage.
The importation of any currency into Zimbabwe by travellers is not restricted. This implies that any person can bring in any amount of currency into Zimbabwe. Travellers are urged to complete an original Customs declaration (form 47) showing the amount of currency imported at the time of entry into the country.
Spending Money
We recommend you take some local currency (Zimbabwean dollars) as well as US Dollars for your trip to Zimbabwe. US Dollars are widely accepted, but having some local currency may be useful for smaller purchases in rural areas or markets. We also recommend taking a debit and/or credit card. Please ensure you have sufficient funds to cover personal expenses such as drinks, snacks, souvenirs, additional tipping, and optional extras. For an average two-week tour, we recommend approximately US$500–US$1,000 per person for spending money, depending on your personal needs and preferences.
Ensure you organize your spending money before leaving major towns and take enough cash in local currency or US Dollars to last throughout your stay, as ATMs and card payment facilities can be limited in remote areas. The price of a meal or drink in Zimbabwe can vary depending on the city and the type of establishment you choose to eat at. Meals and drinks in major cities are generally more expensive than in rural areas. As a guide, based on the current exchange rates, you can expect to pay the following in Australian Dollars (AUD):
The cost of food and drinks in Zimbabwe can vary depending on where you are and what you are looking for. Here are some rough estimates of the cost of common food and drink items in Zimbabwe:
- Snacks (such as a bag of chips or biscuits): AU$2 - AU$3
- Bottle of water 1L: AU$3 - AU$4
- Local beer: AU$5 - AU$8
- Convenience store sandwich, sushi, salad: AU$4 - AU$7
- Pastry from a bakery: AU$5 - AU$7
- Bowl of soba or udon noodles: AU$9 - AU$14
- Bowl of ramen: AU$12 - AU$18
- Lunch or dinner from a mid-range local restaurant: AU$30 - AU$50
- High-end meal: AU$100 - AU$200
(Note: Prices are approximate, as exchange rates and local inflation may cause fluctuation. It’s advisable to check current exchange rates before your trip.)
ATMs
Most major towns and cities in Zimbabwe have ATMs, including Harare, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls. However, not all ATMs accept international cards, and those that do may have limited functionality, particularly outside of major urban centers. ATMs that accept Visa and MasterCard are more common in larger cities and at major banks. Many hotels, shops, and restaurants in Zimbabwe also accept credit and debit cards, especially in tourist areas.
That said, we advise against relying solely on ATMs, as they can sometimes be unreliable, and there may be high withdrawal fees for credit and debit cards. It is advisable to carry some cash in US dollars or Zimbabwean dollars, as card payment facilities may be limited in rural or remote areas. Before you travel, check with your bank to ensure your cards will work in Zimbabwe, and regularly monitor your statements for any signs of fraud or card-skimming incidents.