Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of Zimbabwe
CapitalHarare
Population17.1 million
Area390,757 km² (150,872 sq mi)
LanguagesChibarwe, English, Kalanga, Khoisan, Ndau
CurrencyZimbabwean dollar ($)
TimezoneUTC+02:00
RegionAfrica / Southern Africa
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API

Economic Indicators

GDP per Capita (PPP)$5,928 (2024)
Inflation Rate104.7% (2022)
Health Spend per Capita$63 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend10.6% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)0.4% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data

The cost of transportation in Zimbabwe varies widely, with a monthly transit pass costing around $10-$20 USD, depending on the city and mode of transport.

Quick Facts

Monthly Transit Pass($10-$20 USD)
Taxi Start Rate($5-$10 USD)
Fuel (per liter)($1.50-$2.50 USD)
Ride-Hailing Available(Yes - Apps like Vaya, Hwindi)
CurrencyZWL

Getting Around Overview

Zimbabwe has a relatively underdeveloped public transportation system, with most people relying on informal modes of transport such as minibus taxis and commuter omnibuses. The quality of public transit varies between cities, with Harare having a more comprehensive network than other urban areas. However, the majority of the population relies on walking or cycling as their primary mode of transport, especially in rural areas.

The main transportation modes in Zimbabwe include road transport, with a network of paved and unpaved roads connecting major cities and towns. The country also has a railway network, although it is not well-maintained and is mostly used for freight transport. The lack of a well-developed public transportation system has led to the growth of informal transport services, including taxis and ride-hailing apps.

Public Transportation

Transport TypeSingle Fare (USD)Monthly Pass (USD)Notes
City Bus$0.50-$1.00$10-$20Limited coverage in smaller cities
Metro / SubwayN/AN/ANot available in Zimbabwe
Minibus / Shared Taxi$1.00-$2.00N/AExtensive network, but often overcrowded
Commuter Train$2.00-$5.00$20-$50Limited routes, mostly used for freight

Taxi & Ride-Hailing

ServiceBase Fare (USD)Per km (USD)Typical City Ride (USD)Notes
Metered Taxi$5.00-$10.00$1.00-$2.00$10.00-$20.00Not always available
Ride-Hailing App$2.00-$5.00$0.50-$1.00$5.00-$10.00Vaya, Hwindi, and other local apps
Airport TransferN/AN/A$20.00-$50.00To city center, depending on traffic

Fuel & Driving Costs

ItemCost (USD)Notes
Gasoline (per liter)$1.50-$2.50Prices vary depending on location
Diesel (per liter)$1.20-$2.00Prices vary depending on location
Car Rental (per day)$40-$100Economy car, depending on rental agency
Parking (per hour, city)$1.00-$2.00Limited parking options in city centers
Toll Roads (typical)$2.00-$5.00Limited toll roads, mostly on highways

Intercity & Long-Distance

Route TypeCost Range (USD)Notes
Intercity Bus (4-5 hrs)$10.00-$30.00Depending on route and bus company
Domestic Flight$100.00-$200.00Limited routes, mostly between major cities
Train (long-distance)$20.00-$50.00Limited routes, mostly used for freight

Transport Tips

  • Use local currency (ZWL) for public transportation to avoid high exchange rates.
  • Negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey to avoid overcharging.
  • Use ride-hailing apps like Vaya and Hwindi for convenient and affordable transportation.
  • Be cautious of traffic and road conditions, especially during peak hours or in rural areas.
  • Consider carpooling or sharing transportation costs with others to save money.
  • Always check the price and route before embarking on a journey to avoid any misunderstandings.
Related Cost Guides: Monthly Budget · Rent & Housing