Zimbabwe FCO Travel warning - 5.4.08
Zimbabwe
This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary and Political Situation section (cancellation of a prayer meeting planned at Zimbabwe Grounds in Highfield on 13 March. The overall level of the advice has not changed.
Elections are scheduled to take place in Zimbabwe on 29 March 2008. In this period of increased political tension, you should keep a low profile, exercise caution, and avoid all areas where demonstrations may be held, or where there are large gatherings of people. We strongly advise against visiting high density, low income suburban areas at any time; or the Central Business District of Harare after 17:00 on 29 March, and also on 30 March, when there is potential for increased election-related disturbances.
There has been a general increase in the level of violent crime and a serious deterioration in the economy and infrastructure, making basic services, including utilities, very unreliable. Food, fuel and water can be difficult to find. Health services have deteriorated and can be of a low standard. It is almost impossible to access even basic or emergency treatment without first providing large cash payments. See the Political Situation, Health and Local Travel sections of this advice for more details.
You should ensure that your travel documents are up to date and readily available and that you are registered with the British Embassy. You are advised to have your own contingency plan for how you would leave at short notice. See the General (Living in, or travelling to, Zimbabwe) section of this advice for more details.
There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
You should exercise extreme caution when travelling. Public services are unreliable. We advise against backpacking and travel on public transport.
The main types of incident for which British nationals required consular assistance in Zimbabwe in 2007 were dealing with arrests or detentions, related to minor crimes (15 cases); and replacing lost and stolen passports (86 cases).
We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and the Travel Insurance for more details.
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Kind regards,
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