Vaccinations & Health Rules for Zimbabwe for Canadian Travellers 2026

Quick Answer: Vaccine Requirements for Canadian Citizens Travelling to Zimbabwe

Yellow fever certificate: Required only if you are arriving from or have transited more than 12 hours through a country with yellow fever risk—not required for direct travel from Canada. Routine vaccines: Ensure measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), polio, diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (Tdap) are up to date. Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, typhoid, and yellow fever (as an extra precaution, even if not legally required). Malaria prophylaxis: Recommended for all regions of Zimbabwe.

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Do You Need a Yellow Fever Certificate for Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate for travellers aged 9 months and above who are arriving from or transiting through countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, in line with WHO International Health Regulations. Canada is not classified as a yellow fever endemic country, so if you are travelling directly from Canada to Zimbabwe without stopping in a risk country, a yellow fever certificate is not a legal entry requirement.

However, there is an important caveat: if your journey includes a stopover or layover of more than 12 hours in an airport located in a yellow fever endemic country—such as Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, or Uganda—you will need proof of yellow fever vaccination to enter Zimbabwe. This applies even if you do not leave the airport during your layover.

Yellow fever endemic countries include: Most of Central and West Africa, as well as parts of South America (including Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela). Consult the CDC's Yellow Fever Risk Map or the WHO Yellow Fever website before booking your flight to confirm whether your connecting city is in a risk zone.

Certificate validity: Your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP, also called a yellow fever vaccination card) must show vaccination at least 10 days before arrival in Zimbabwe. The vaccine is valid for life under WHO regulations.

If you cannot receive the yellow fever vaccine: Travellers with medical contraindications can obtain an International Certificate of Medical Contraindication from a yellow fever vaccination centre in Canada, following an individual risk assessment. However, Zimbabwe may still deny entry or quarantine you; consult your nearest Zimbabwean diplomatic office before travelling.

Recommended Vaccinations for Canadian Travellers to Zimbabwe

Beyond yellow fever, Health Canada's Committee to Advise on Tropical Medicine and Travel (CATMAT) and the CDC recommend the following vaccines for most travellers to Zimbabwe:

Routine Vaccines (Must Be Up to Date)

Ensure you are up to date with routine childhood and adult vaccinations before any international travel:

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): Two doses required; most Canadians receive this in childhood.
• Polio (IPV): A booster dose is now recommended for most adult travellers to any destination due to global polio activity.
• Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (Tdap): Ensure your most recent dose is within the last 10 years.
• Varicella (Chickenpox): Two doses or proof of immunity.
• Influenza (Flu): Annual dose recommended before travel.
• COVID-19: Not currently required for entry to Zimbabwe; however, staying up to date is recommended.

Pre-Travel Vaccines (Strongly Recommended)

Vaccine	Disease Transmission	Recommendation for Zimbabwe	Timing
Hepatitis A	Contaminated food or water	Recommended for most travellers, especially those visiting smaller cities or rural areas.	2 doses, 6–12 months apart; protection begins 2–4 weeks after first dose.
Typhoid	Contaminated food or water	Recommended for most travellers, especially those staying with friends/family or visiting rural areas.	Single injection (lasts 2–3 years) or oral vaccine (4 doses over 1 week; lasts 5 years).
Yellow Fever	Infected mosquito bite	Not required for direct travel from Canada; CDC does not recommend it based on risk in Zimbabwe. However, Health Canada recommends it as a precaution, and it is required if you transit through endemic countries.	Single dose; protection begins 10 days after vaccination and lasts for life.
Hepatitis B	Blood, body fluids, sexual contact	Recommended for all travellers; especially important if you may have sexual contact or medical/dental procedures.	Series of 3 doses over 6 months (standard schedule) or accelerated 4-dose schedule.
Rabies	Saliva of infected animals	Recommended for travellers who may encounter animals or plan activities in remote areas; moderate risk in Zimbabwe.	3 doses over 3–4 weeks before travel (pre-exposure prophylaxis).
Cholera	Contaminated food or water	Recommended for travellers to Mashonaland East Province; areas of transmission exist in Zimbabwe.	Single dose or 2 doses (depends on vaccine); protection begins 1 week after final dose.

When to book your travel health clinic appointment: Schedule your appointment 4–8 weeks before departure to allow time for all vaccines to take effect and for any adverse reactions to resolve. Some vaccines require multiple doses spaced weeks apart; early planning ensures you complete the full series before travel.

Malaria in Zimbabwe: Risk, Prophylaxis & Prevention

Malaria is present throughout Zimbabwe and is a significant health risk for travellers. The disease is spread by Anopheles mosquitoes, which bite most actively between dusk and dawn.

Malaria Risk by Region

Zimbabwe as a whole lies in a moderate-risk zone for malaria:

• High risk (November–June): All areas below 1,200 metres elevation, including the Zambezi Valley (year-round).
• Moderate risk (November–June): Most of Zimbabwe during the rainy season.
• Low risk: The cities of Harare and Bulawayo, particularly in the dry season (June–October).

Even if you are visiting Harare or Bulawayo, antimalarial prophylaxis is still recommended, especially if you venture outside the city or plan to visit national parks such as Hwange or Victoria Falls.

Malaria Prophylaxis: Medication Options

Antimalarial prophylaxis is recommended for all regions of Zimbabwe. Chloroquine resistance is widespread in Zimbabwe, so chloroquine alone is not effective. Your travel health provider will recommend one of the following medications based on your health history, other medications you take, and the length of your stay:

• Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone): Start 1–2 days before travel, continue daily during stay, and for 7 days after leaving Zimbabwe.
• Doxycycline: Start 1–2 days before travel, continue daily, and for 4 weeks after leaving Zimbabwe. Not suitable for children under 8 years or pregnant women.
• Mefloquine: Start 2–3 weeks before travel, continue weekly, and for 4 weeks after leaving Zimbabwe. May cause neuropsychiatric side effects in some people.
• Tafenoquine: Single dose taken 3 days before travel, with a second dose 7 days after leaving Zimbabwe. A newer option with a shorter course.

Consult your travel health provider at least 4–8 weeks before departure to determine which antimalarial is best for you and to obtain a prescription.

Non-Medication Malaria Prevention

Antimalarial medications are not 100% effective, so combine them with physical prevention measures:

• Mosquito nets: Sleep under an insecticide-treated bed net, especially in rural areas and national parks.
• Insect repellent: Use a repellent containing 20–30% DEET on exposed skin, especially during dawn and dusk.
• Protective clothing: Wear long sleeves and long trousers, particularly between dusk and dawn.
• Air conditioning or screens: Stay in air-conditioned rooms or rooms with screened windows and doors.

Other Health Considerations for Zimbabwe Travellers

Routine Health Precautions

• Water safety: Drink only bottled or boiled water; avoid tap water, ice, and unpasteurised dairy products.
• Food safety: Eat only thoroughly cooked food served hot; avoid raw vegetables and fruits you cannot peel yourself.
• Hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially before eating and after using the toilet.
• Sunscreen: Zimbabwe is at high altitude and close to the equator; use SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply regularly.

Chikungunya & Dengue Fever

These mosquito-borne diseases are present in Zimbabwe, though cases are rare. There is no vaccine for dengue; prevention relies on mosquito bite avoidance (see above). A chikungunya vaccine (IXCHIQ) is now available in Canada and may be considered for travellers, especially those spending extended time in rural areas; discuss this with your travel health provider.

Health Documents & Travel Insurance

International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP)

If you receive a yellow fever vaccine, ensure your healthcare provider issues you an official ICVP (the yellow WHO vaccination card). This is a legal document and the only proof of yellow fever vaccination accepted by Zimbabwe. Keep it with your passport throughout your trip.

Travel Health Insurance

While not a legal requirement, comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended for all travel to Zimbabwe. Your provincial health plan does not cover medical care abroad. Ensure your policy includes:

• Emergency medical treatment (at least CAD $100,000).
• Medical evacuation to South Africa or Canada (critical in remote areas).
• Dental and pharmacy coverage.
• Coverage for adventure activities (if you plan hiking or water sports).
• Coverage for claims related to malaria and other tropical diseases.

Prescription Medications

Carry all medications in their original, labelled containers with your name and dosage clearly printed. Obtain a letter from your doctor in English describing your medical condition and listing all medications, including dosages. This is especially important for controlled substances (e.g., certain pain medications or psychiatric drugs); Zimbabwe has strict import regulations.

What to Pack: Health & Hygiene Essentials

• DEET-based insect repellent (20–30% concentration).
• Antimalarial medication (if prescribed by your travel health provider).
• Malaria rapid diagnostic tests (optional; available at travel clinics).
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm with SPF.
• Personal first-aid kit: pain relievers, antihistamines, anti-diarrhoeal medication, antacids, blister treatment, and adhesive bandages.
• Prescription medications in original containers, plus a copy of your prescription or doctor's letter.
• Altitude sickness medication (if ascending to high elevations; consult your doctor).
• Any personal medications for chronic conditions.
• Hand sanitiser (alcohol-based, 60%+ alcohol).
• Feminine hygiene products (limited availability outside major cities).

Healthcare Facilities & Emergencies in Zimbabwe

Quality of Care

Medical facilities in Harare and Bulawayo are adequate for routine care but limited for complex or emergency treatment. Private hospitals such as Avenues Clinic (Harare) and Mpilo Central Hospital (Bulawayo) offer better standards than public facilities. However, serious medical emergencies may require evacuation to South Africa (Johannesburg) or international repatriation to Canada.

Finding Medical Help

• Emergency number: Call 999 or your hotel front desk in an emergency.
• Travel clinic before departure: Ask your travel health provider for a list of English-speaking doctors and hospitals in Zimbabwe.
• Canadian embassy: Contact the Canadian embassy in Harare for referrals to medical services if needed.
• Pharmacies: Pharmacies in Harare and Bulawayo stock many medications, but availability of specific drugs cannot be guaranteed. Bring adequate supplies of all prescription medications.

Medical Costs

Private healthcare in Zimbabwe is relatively inexpensive compared to Canada, but costs can escalate quickly for serious illnesses or evacuation. Travel insurance will cover these expenses; verify your coverage includes medical evacuation before departure.

Planning Your Zimbabwe Safari: Health Considerations

If you are planning a safari to Zimbabwe's national parks during peak season, factor in additional health precautions:

• Remote locations: Safari lodges in Hwange, Mana Pools, and Zambezi National Parks are far from medical facilities. Ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation.
• Water quality: Most safari lodges provide filtered or boiled water, but carry bottled water as backup.
• Animal exposure: Discuss rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis with your travel health provider if you will be in close contact with animals or hiking in the bush.
• Altitude: Some areas of Zimbabwe are at elevation (Harare is at 1,480 m); allow 1–2 days to acclimatise before strenuous activities.

For detailed information on visa requirements and general entry requirements, consult our dedicated guides.

Timeline: When to Start Your Health Preparations

8 weeks before travel: Schedule an appointment with a travel health clinic (see "Finding a Travel Health Clinic" below). Discuss your itinerary, activities, and medical history.

6–8 weeks before travel: Begin yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid vaccinations (if recommended). Some vaccines require multiple doses spaced weeks apart.

4 weeks before travel: Receive your final vaccine doses. Ensure your ICVP is issued if you received yellow fever vaccine.

2–3 weeks before travel: Obtain antimalarial prescription and begin medication if advised (timing depends on the drug). Purchase travel health insurance.

1 week before travel: Confirm your insurance coverage, pack all medications and health supplies, and verify your yellow fever certificate is valid.

Finding a Travel Health Clinic in Canada

Travel health services are available at:

• Public health units: Many provincial/territorial health authorities offer travel vaccination clinics.
• Travel medicine clinics: Specialist clinics in major cities (Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary) offer comprehensive pre-travel assessment and vaccination.
• Pharmacist-administered vaccines: Many pharmacies across Canada now offer travel vaccines; consult your local pharmacy.
• Your family doctor: Can provide routine vaccines and refer you to a travel health specialist if needed.

Search for "travel health clinic near me" or visit Health Canada's website to find a designated yellow fever vaccination centre in your province.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a yellow fever vaccine to enter Zimbabwe from Canada?

No, a yellow fever vaccine is not legally required if you are travelling directly from Canada to Zimbabwe without transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. However, if your journey includes a layover of more than 12 hours in an airport located in a yellow fever risk country (such as Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Kenya), you will need proof of yellow fever vaccination to enter Zimbabwe.

What is the difference between a yellow fever requirement and a recommendation?

A requirement means you must have proof of vaccination to legally enter the country; without it, you may be denied entry, quarantined, or vaccinated at the airport at your own expense and risk. A recommendation means the vaccine is not legally required but is advised by health authorities to protect your health. For Zimbabwe, yellow fever is a requirement only if you arrive from an endemic country; however, it is recommended as an extra precaution for all travellers.

How long before my trip should I get vaccinated?

Schedule your travel health clinic appointment 4–8 weeks before departure. Yellow fever vaccine takes 10 days to provide protection; hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines take 2–4 weeks. Some vaccines require multiple doses spaced weeks apart, so early planning is essential.

Can I get all my travel vaccines at once?

Most travel vaccines can be given at the same visit, but some spacing is required. For example, hepatitis A requires two doses 6–12 months apart. Your travel health provider will create a schedule that allows you to complete all necessary vaccines before your departure date.

Is malaria prophylaxis mandatory for Zimbabwe?

Malaria prophylaxis is not legally required but is strongly recommended by Health Canada and the CDC for all travellers to Zimbabwe, including those visiting Harare and Bulawayo. Even low-risk areas can have malaria transmission; the decision to take prophylaxis should be made in consultation with your travel health provider based on your itinerary, duration of stay, and personal health factors.

What antimalarial medication should I take?

The choice of antimalarial depends on your health history, other medications, allergies, and the length of your stay. Common options include atovaquone/proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, and tafenoquine. Your travel health provider will recommend the best option for you. Do not self-prescribe; consult a healthcare provider at least 4 weeks before travel.

How long should I take malaria prophylaxis?

The duration depends on the medication. Atovaquone/proguanil is taken 1–2 days before travel, daily during your stay, and for 7 days after leaving Zimbabwe. Doxycycline is taken 1–2 days before travel, daily, and for 4 weeks after leaving. Mefloquine is started 2–3 weeks before travel, taken weekly, and continued for 4 weeks after leaving. Tafenoquine is taken 3 days before travel and 7 days after leaving. Your pharmacist or doctor will provide specific instructions.

Do I need travel health insurance for Zimbabwe?

Yes. Your provincial health insurance does not cover medical care abroad, and healthcare costs in Zimbabwe can escalate quickly, especially for evacuation. Travel insurance is essential and should cover emergency medical treatment (at least CAD $100,000), medical evacuation, and tropical disease coverage.

What should I do if I become ill with malaria symptoms after returning to Canada?

Malaria symptoms (fever, chills, headache, muscle aches) can develop up to several months after leaving Zimbabwe. If you develop these symptoms, seek medical care immediately and inform your doctor that you have recently travelled to a malaria-endemic area. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical. Bring your travel itinerary and any antimalarial medication records with you.

Are there any health risks I should avoid in Zimbabwe?

Avoid drinking tap water, eating undercooked food, swimming in untreated water sources (which may harbour parasites), and contact with animals (rabies risk). Practise strict hand hygiene and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.

Can I get my yellow fever vaccine in Zimbabwe if I didn't get it in Canada?

Yellow fever vaccination is available in Zimbabwe, but it is not recommended to delay vaccination until arrival. Getting vaccinated in Canada before travel ensures you have protection from day one and have time to develop immunity (10 days) before exposure. If you arrive without vaccination and later need to travel to another country requiring proof, you will face delays and complications.

What is an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP)?

The ICVP is the official WHO yellow fever vaccination card issued by a licensed healthcare provider or vaccination centre. It is a legal document proving you have received the yellow fever vaccine and must be presented at immigration if required. Keep it with your passport throughout your trip and in a safe place after returning home, as some countries may require proof of yellow fever vaccination for future travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a yellow fever vaccine to enter Zimbabwe from Canada?

No, a yellow fever vaccine is not legally required if you are travelling directly from Canada to Zimbabwe without transiting through a yellow fever endemic country. However, if your journey includes a layover of more than 12 hours in an airport located in a yellow fever risk country (such as Brazil, Democratic Republic of the Congo, or Kenya), you will need proof of yellow fever vaccination to enter Zimbabwe.

What vaccinations are recommended for Canadian travellers to Zimbabwe?

Health Canada and the CDC recommend ensuring routine vaccines (MMR, polio, Tdap, varicella) are up to date, and strongly recommend hepatitis A, typhoid, yellow fever (as a precaution), and hepatitis B for most travellers. Rabies and cholera vaccines may be recommended depending on your activities and destinations.

How long before my trip should I schedule a travel health clinic appointment?

Schedule your appointment 4–8 weeks before departure. This allows time for multiple vaccine doses (some require spacing of weeks), for immunity to develop, and for any adverse reactions to resolve before you travel.

Is malaria prophylaxis required for Zimbabwe?

Malaria prophylaxis is not legally required but is strongly recommended by Health Canada and the CDC for all travellers to Zimbabwe, including those visiting major cities. Consult your travel health provider to determine if antimalarial medication is right for you based on your itinerary and health history.

What antimalarial medications are used for Zimbabwe?

Common options include atovaquone/proguanil (Malarone), doxycycline, mefloquine, and tafenoquine. Chloroquine is not effective in Zimbabwe due to resistance. Your travel health provider will recommend the best medication based on your health history, other medications, and trip duration.

How long should I take malaria prophylaxis?

Duration depends on the medication. Atovaquone/proguanil is taken 1–2 days before travel, daily during your stay, and for 7 days after leaving. Doxycycline is taken 1–2 days before, daily, and for 4 weeks after. Mefloquine is started 2–3 weeks before, taken weekly, and continued 4 weeks after. Tafenoquine is taken 3 days before and 7 days after leaving.

Do I need travel health insurance for Zimbabwe?

Yes. Your provincial health insurance does not cover medical care abroad. Comprehensive travel health insurance is essential and should cover emergency medical treatment (at least CAD $100,000), medical evacuation, and tropical disease coverage.

What is an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP)?

The ICVP is the official WHO yellow fever vaccination card issued by a licensed healthcare provider or vaccination centre. It is a legal document proving you have received the yellow fever vaccine and must be presented at immigration if required. Keep it with your passport throughout your trip.

Can malaria symptoms develop after I return to Canada?

Yes. Malaria symptoms (fever, chills, headache, muscle aches) can develop up to several months after leaving Zimbabwe. If you develop these symptoms, seek medical care immediately and inform your doctor that you have recently travelled to a malaria-endemic area. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical.

What should I do if I cannot receive the yellow fever vaccine?

Travellers with medical contraindications can obtain an International Certificate of Medical Contraindication from a yellow fever vaccination centre in Canada, following an individual risk assessment. However, Zimbabwe may still deny entry; consult your nearest Zimbabwean diplomatic office before travelling.

Where can I find a travel health clinic in Canada?

Travel health services are available at public health units, specialist travel medicine clinics in major cities, pharmacies offering travel vaccines, and your family doctor. Search for 'travel health clinic near me' or visit Health Canada's website to find a designated yellow fever vaccination centre in your province.

Is yellow fever actually present in Zimbabwe?

No. There is no risk of yellow fever in Zimbabwe itself. Zimbabwe requires yellow fever vaccination only to prevent the importation of the virus from travellers arriving from endemic countries. The vaccine requirement is a border control measure, not a reflection of disease risk at your destination.