
Major Highways & Driving Tips in Masvingo, Zimbabwe
1. A10 Masvingo-Harare Highway
Paved road connecting Masvingo to Harare, the capital city. Offers scenic views of the Zimbabwean landscape.
- Length: Approximately 300 km long
- Travel Time: Takes about 4-5 hours to travel from Masvingo to Harare
- Speed Limit: Speed limit is usually 100 km/h, but can vary due to road conditions
2. A6 Masvingo-Mutare Highway
Main route connecting Masvingo to Mutare in the east. Passes through scenic areas like Vumba Mountains.
- Length: Approximately 400 km long
- Travel Time: Takes about 6-7 hours to travel from Masvingo to Mutare
- Mountain Passes: Includes several mountain passes that can be challenging during rainy weather
3. B5 Masvingo-Bulawayo Road
Link between Masvingo and Bulawayo, the second largest city in Zimbabwe. Offers a mix of rural and urban landscapes.
- Length: Approximately 350 km long
- Travel Time: Takes about 4-5 hours to travel from Masvingo to Bulawayo
- Speed Limit: Speed limit is usually 100 km/h, but can vary due to road conditions
4. Road Toll Gates
Located along major highways for vehicle toll collection. Be prepared with exact change or electronic payment methods.
- Locations: Toll gates are located at key points along the A10, A6, and B5 highways
- Payment Methods: Accept cash, electronic payment methods, or pre-paid toll tags
- Toll Rates: Rates vary based on vehicle type and number of axles
5. Fuel Stations
Located along major highways for refuelling. Be sure to fill up at a reputable station.
- Locations: Stations are located at key points along the A10, A6, and B5 highways
- Brand Affiliation: Stations may be affiliated with brands such as Total, Engen, or Caltex
- Services Offered: Some stations offer additional services like convenience stores, car washes, or tire repair
6. Rest Areas
Located along highways for rest and refreshment. Provide facilities like toilets, parking, and food services.
- Locations: Areas are located at key points along the A10, A6, and B5 highways
- Facilities: Rest areas may offer facilities like toilets, picnic tables, and parking spaces
- Food Services: Some rest areas have food services, while others do not
7. Speed Limits
Signs indicate the maximum speed limit on highways. Speeding can result in heavy fines and imprisonment.
- Typical Speed Limit: The typical speed limit is 100 km/h
- Road Conditions: Speed limits can decrease in areas with poor road conditions or curves
- Enforcement: Police regularly enforce speed limits using radar guns and cameras
8. Wildlife Crossings
Specially designed areas for animals to cross roads safely. Be aware of these areas and slow down when approaching.
- Locations: Found along highways near national parks or wildlife reserves
- Safety Measures: Includes fences and warning signs to alert drivers of the crossing areas
- Animal Crossings: Commonly used by elephants, antelope, and other wildlife
9. Traffic Signals & Roundabouts
Located at intersections in towns and cities. Obey traffic signals and drive carefully through roundabouts.
- Traffic Signal Rules: Red means stop, yellow means caution, and green means go
- Roundabout Etiquette: Yield to vehicles already on the roundabout before entering
- Pedestrian Crossings: Always give way to pedestrians at crosswalks
10. Road Repairs & Construction
Occasional road repairs or construction may cause delays. Adjust your travel plans accordingly.
- Locations: Repairs and construction may occur on any highway
- Signage: Signs will alert you to road repairs or construction ahead
- Detours: Detours may be provided during significant roadwork
11. Vehicle Breakdown Assistance
Emergency services to help if your vehicle breaks down. Carry a phone and emergency kit for assistance.
- Coverage: Coverage may vary depending on the breakdown recovery service you use
- Response Time: Response time can depend on the location and severity of the breakdown
- Costs: Costs may vary depending on the extent of the repair needed
12. Police Stations
Located throughout Masvingo for assistance. Report any incidents or seek help if needed.
- Locations: Stations are located in towns and cities throughout Masvingo
- Services Offered: Services include reporting crimes, obtaining assistance, or filing a police report
- Emergency Assistance: Police can assist with emergencies, such as accidents or dangerous situations
13. Tourist Information Centers
Located throughout Masvingo to provide information on attractions, accommodation, and local services.
- Locations: Centers are located in towns and cities with tourist attractions
- Services Offered: Services include maps, brochures, accommodation booking, and local tips
- Assistance: Staff can help with any questions or concerns you may have during your travels
14. Hiring a Car in Masvingo
Renting a car gives you freedom to explore Masvingo at your own pace. Be sure to choose a reputable rental company.
- Car Types: Rental companies offer a variety of car types, from small cars to SUVs
- Insurance Coverage: Be sure to understand what is included in the insurance coverage
- Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations: Rental companies may have specific pick-up and drop-off locations
15. Public Transportation
Buses and shared taxis provide an affordable way to travel throughout Masvingo. Be prepared for longer travel times.
- Routes: Routes cover major towns and cities in Masvingo
- Costs: Costs are generally lower than renting a car
- Travel Time: Travel time may be significantly longer than driving a car