Economy

The Zimbabwean unit of currency is the Zimbabwean dollar (Z$), which is divided into 100 cents. Foreign currency is however widely accepted and prices are usually also displayed in US$.

Foreigners are requested to settle their accommodation payment in foreign currency, preferably US$.The Zimbabwean economy is something of an oxymoron. With absurd levels of inflation, an overvalued exchange rate, an unsustainable fiscal deficit and empty shelves, the Zimbabwean government faces massive economic challenges.

The government exacerbated the economic crisis with a forced land-redistribution programme that badly damaged the commercial farming sector. This was once the country's traditional source of exports and foreign exchange and the supplier of more than 400,000 jobs.

Zimbabwe was known as the bread basket of Africa, but the agricultural sector has now failed to the extent that Zimbabwe is now a net importer of food products.

It is doubtful, given the Zimbabwean political situation, whether much will be done in the near future to improve its economic health.

The exchange rate is vastly in your favour. You will find that fine cuisine, wine, and entertainment cost a fraction of the tariff charged by equivalent establishments elsewhere in the world.

Banks

Banks in Zimbabwe are open for business during the following hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 08:00 - 15:00 Wednesday 08:00 - 13:00 Saturday 08:00 - 11:30 Major hotels have foreign exchange facilities and most shops, lodges and travel agencies will accept travellers cheques. Note that hotels usually offer a more favourable exchange rate than banks.

Credit Cards

All major credit cards are accepted at hotels, shops and restaurants. However, please note that certain lodges and restaurants do not accept payment by Diners Club or American Express. Credit cards are not accepted at petrol filling stations.

Tipping

Tips of 10% are usually expected by taxi drivers and at hotels. Service charge is often included in a bill, but when not, a 10% tip is acceptable.

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