Exploring Zimbabwe on a Tight Travel Budget: Tips and Tricks
The land of Zimbabwe offers abundant natural beauty that is diverse and unique, from the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls to its wildlife-rich national parks. For those who wish to explore this fascinating country on a tight travel budget, there are some great ways to save money while enjoying all that Zimbabwe has to offer. Here are 5 tips and tricks to help you stay within budget:
1. Plan Your Trip During the Off-Season
Zimbabwe is a year-round destination, but planning your trip during off-peak season can save you a considerable amount of money. During these periods, there are fewer tourists vacationing in the country and therefore, prices of accommodations are lower. Plan your trip for May to October, which is the dry season and peak time to spot wildlife.
2. Take Public Transportation
To explore Zimbabwe within budget, ditch the cabs and rent a car. Public transportation is cheap and readily available, making it an ideal way to travel if you’re comfortable with it. Choose to travel in trains, buses, or shared taxis, and you will save money while also getting a chance to experience the local culture.
3. Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodation
One of the factors that can increase the cost of your trip is accommodation. By choosing budget-friendly lodging such as backpackers’ hostels and campsites, you will save a considerable amount of money. Besides, staying in such places offers more opportunities to engage with other travellers and hear travel stories, giving insights on what to see and do while in Zimbabwe.
4. Try the Local Cuisine
Zimbabwe is known for its delicious local cuisine that is cooked in a variety of ways, using unique flavours and spices. Eating local dishes not only offers an authentic Zimbabwean experience, but it’s also inexpensive. Eating at local markets or street food vendors is a great way to keep your food expenses low, and you’ll be able to sample the real flavours of Zimbabwean cuisine.
5. Book Activities in Advance
When it comes to tours or activities in Zimbabwe, planning ahead will not only save you money but also ensure that you get the most out of your experiences. Many tour providers offer discounts for early bookings, which means that you’ll pay less for each activity. Furthermore, by planning your activities in advance, you’ll be able to set a budget for each day, knowing the costs beforehand.
Conclusion
Exploring Zimbabwe on a tight travel budget is entirely possible, as long as you are willing to plan ahead, think creatively and embrace the local culture. By following these tips, you will enjoy an authentic experience while staying within your budget. Zimbabwe is a beautiful country, rich in culture and nature, and with a bit of planning, it can be an affordable destination for any traveler.
