Safari tourism in Zimbabwe gets a boost

Zimbabwean authorities have announced an extension of the duty-free importation policy for vehicles by safari operators, a move aimed at strengthening their role in the country's tourism value chain. The announcement was made by Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube during his 2026 National Budget Speech, highlighting the government's commitment to positioning Zimbabwe as a leading player in the African tourism market.

The suspension of import taxes on vehicles, which will run from January 1, 2026, is expected to encourage further investment in Zimbabwe's tourism sector. The policy allows safari operators and tour companies to import vehicles and buses without incurring standard import duties. By facilitating the acquisition of specialized vehicles for safari services, the government hopes to enhance infrastructure, improve service delivery, and attract more international investment to the sector.

Industry projections indicate that Zimbabwe's tourism sector has grown steadily, with an expected increase of 2.9 percent in 2025 and 3.1 percent in 2026. Alongside mining and agriculture, tourism is increasingly recognized as a vital contributor to the economy due to its potential for sustainable development and foreign currency generation. The government has committed to extending the duty suspension for a further two years, provided operators continue to comply with tax requirements, ensuring the industry's sustained growth.

Safari tourism remains a major draw for international visitors, with Zimbabwe's diverse wildlife, including the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—alongside iconic destinations such as the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls, and Hwange National Park. The government's initiative is expected to enable safari operators to modernize and expand their fleets, ultimately improving the country's reputation as a world-class safari destination.

In addition to the duty-free vehicle scheme, the Zimbabwean government has introduced complementary measures to encourage tourism investment. These include tax holidays, duty-free allowances on certain capital equipment, and economic incentives for investors within designated Tourism Development Zones. Together, these measures are intended to boost new investments, enhance infrastructure, and stimulate the growing tourism economy.

The focus on modernizing safari vehicles is particularly significant, as operators rely on specialized fleets to transport tourists and conduct game drives across Zimbabwe's diverse landscapes. The introduction of modern, eco-friendly vehicles is expected to improve service delivery, attract niche markets, and meet increasing demand for sustainable, low-carbon safari experiences.

Finance Minister Ncube's initiatives also highlight the government's broader commitment to developing the tourism and travel industry in Zimbabwe, which, like much of Africa, remains underdeveloped despite significant growth potential. Investment in infrastructure and service quality, along with a focus on niche sectors such as Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) and eco-tourism, is expected to position Zimbabwe competitively in the regional and international tourism markets.

The extension of the duty suspension sends a broader message to African states on the importance of developing tourism potential through targeted fiscal policies. By creating a conducive environment for innovation and investment, Zimbabwe is setting an example for other countries seeking to enhance their tourism sectors.

With modernized fleets, improved infrastructure, and strategic fiscal incentives, Zimbabwe's safari operators are now better equipped to deliver high-quality experiences to both luxury and eco-tourism travelers. The government's policies are expected to strengthen the sustainability and profitability of the tourism sector while ensuring the country remains a competitive and attractive destination for international visitors.

Zimbabwe's commitment to supporting safari tourism, enhancing service delivery, and creating fiscal frameworks that stimulate investment is set to open new frontiers for the country's tourism industry. By prioritizing quality infrastructure, niche markets, and sustainable practices, Zimbabwe is positioning itself as a benchmark for tourism development in Africa.