Practical Information in Zimbabwe

There are two exchange rates, the official rate, and the black market rate. In fall 2006, the black market rate was 8 times the official rate per USD. If you are a non-resident booking a room in a hotel and wish to pay in Zimbabwe dollars, you must carry a letter showing proof that you exchanged money on the official market (otherwise you must pay in USD). However, cheaper hotels will not ask you for this information thus allowing you to pay in Zimbabwe Dollars. Be careful exchanging money at the black market rate. Unfortunately, Zimbabwe is an exorbitant country if you travel on the official market rate.