I'm making my first trip to Zimbabwe this August. Are there any important things I need to know about getting firearms into the country? After a few trips to South Africa I don't want to make any assumptions that things would be the same for Zim. So any words of advice from recent travelers would be greatly appreciated. I'm planning on bringing a .416 Taylor that I put together myself on a 98 Mauser action. Also thinking about bringing a 7x57 Ackley Improved for the smaller critters. Thanks for your comments.

I recently flew into Bulaweyo. There were no problems with getting guns in, but take some carbon paper with you. No kidding. The firearms form are to be filled with one original, and three copies. There was only one sheet of carbon paper available in Bulaweyo. When you get off the plane, immediately get the green customs form and fill it out. Then get in line for your visa. Have $30.00 us in exact change ready. They don't like making change. Then fill out your firearms form and just smile a lot. It ain't quick, but you will get through it. We flew out of Vic Falls. They will inspect your gun and confiscate your permit upon leaving. Again, just be nice and all will be OK.

I have the Zim Firearms Import Permit in PDF format. You can fill them in prior to your arrival and it will speed things up for you. Anyone wanting one just email me and I will send.

You will need to make two (some outfitters ask that the client have three) additional copies besides the original and make sure you bring all three with.



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I also have the yellow IMMIGRATION DECLARATION form that you fill out when you arrive and pay your $30.00 for your visa stamp.



If you need these let me know and I will mail them to you.

I was with 1115... Kathi and everyone is correct. Have the forms already filled out, or make sure you have a pen and carbon paper. I had the carbons and went through customs in 5 minutes... poor 1115 took "forever" filling out triplicates.. It's also a good idea to declare your camera, etc., so it will be on your forms when you leave. Also, you may wish to accurately declare your money. If you're found out to have more than your customs declaration, rumour is that it may be confiscated at a roadblock.. and there are plenty of those. Who knows? When 1115 and I passed roadblocks, it was so cold that you couldn't have gotten a soldier to move 1" from the ever present roadside fire... but I've heard plenty of tales of thorough checks.. but no real abuses of those who had honestly declared their imports and cash (most stories contains request for meat or other foodstuffs... I declared 5k U.S. and nobody blinked coming or going,???? Hope the same is true for you and yours!



Speaking for 1115 and myself, we found the folks at Bulawayo to be somewhat officious, but competent and polite, especially if you had U.S. dollars to pay for the visa and the patience to smile and listen to their instructions.



The Jo'burg to Bulaway flight only has 50 or so seats, so any delay at immigration will be minimal.



Have fun!!!!! Take pictures and give us a full report!