My journey to Zimbabwe included a couple of long haul flights, in SWISS’ 777 first class and KLM’s 777 business class. However, those flights only got me as far as South Africa, with the last segment to Zimbabwe being on Federal Airlines (this is also where I met up with Ford, since he took a…
Continue reading: Flying Federal Airlines To Buffalo Range, Zimbabwe
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Very interesting review. I've been to Zimbabwe- to Victoria Falls - for a conference. Things like customs, any formality, etc, are all part of make work programs giving jobs to people loyal to the government. Lots of bureaucracy, but it instills loyalty. No need for most of it.
The "how much money do you have access to" question is one I've gotten in other Sub-Saharan African countries -- may also be a thing for other dodgy countries but that's where I've done most of my dodgy-country traveling. But I also think it may be a common thing for securing a visa for a resident of a poor country traveling to a wealthy country? (I.e., do you have the money to sustain yourself here if you stay the whole duration of your visa and, per your visa, cannot work.) That's the logic that was explained to me in other African countries.
Federal Air also offers full charters of a PC-12 or King Air. You can easily do that through Singita. That gives you two advantages: A) You can conveniently combine South African Lodges, such as the ones in Sabi Sands with Pamushana and B) you don't have to end at Buffalo Range and can fly further from Buffalo Range to Lone Star, the airstrip inside Malilangwe reserve, 10 Minutes drive from from the lodge. The flight lasts only 5 minutes but is one of the most fascinating flights there is.
Isn't this akin to "wealthy countries" asking for your bank account? I'm from a dodgy poor country and each time I apply to a wealthy country for visa,most want to see my bank account for 3-6 months and a letter from my employer stating how much I earn annually
I arrived in Zim over land a few years ago, and I would definitely describe the process as 'chill.' Handed over passport and $30 and the officer stuck a visa in and sent me on my way. No customs inspection to speak of. Interesting because airports are usually far more relaxed than land crossings.
In the case of Zimbabwe there is a limit on how much money you can take with you when leaving (because foreigners have been blamed by the government for taking all the money out of the country). The limit applies to the amount you take with you when departing minus the amount you declared upon arrival.
I've flown on a Pilatus PC-12 and a Cessna Caravan, both to the FS Lana'i. Night and day difference. LOL! The former was included in the reservation during the COVID Lock-down, which was a nice touch. Don't mind the Cessna as I love planes and it was a fun ride.
I'd like to find an opportunity to fly on that plane. Looking forward to the lodge report.
I've been asked this question on entry to the USA, when visiting for a holiday. (I'm Australian).
I couldn't agree with you more Jason. I am a long time resident of Chiredzi and live close to Buffalo Range International Airport... It is most regrettable to hear visitors had to wait for the Custom's Official to arrive.... let alone have their departure comments scrutinized!
However, hope this does not put people visiting our wonderful country! Safe travels!
"all these long haul trips together" ford has joined for like 2 trips in the past year lol dont be a weirdo
also childcare exists weird concept