Zimbabwe is known for its warm, welcoming people, and a little effort to understand their customs goes a long way in making your visit even more enriching. The primary ethnic groups are the Shona and Ndebele, and while customs are broadly similar, there can be subtle differences. Here's a guide to local customs, non-verbal cues, gestures, and phrases for tourists in Zimbabwe: 1. Greetings (Very Important!) Greetings are fundamental and highly valued in Zimbabwean culture. Always greet someone when you encounter them, especially elders. Handshakes: A firm, warm handshake with direct eye contact is the most common form of greeting. Always use your right hand. The left hand is generally considered unclean for greetings, eating, or handling money. If your right hand is occupied or dirty, you can offer your right forearm and touch it with your left hand as a sign of respect, or simply apologize. In more traditional or rural settings, a handshake might be followed by a light clap (see "Clapping Hands" below). When greeting an elder, it's customary to greet them first and show deference, sometimes with a slight bow or lowering of the head. Verbal Greetings: Even a simple "Hello" in English is fine, but using a few local phrases is always appreciated. Shona (most widely spoken): "Mhoroi" (mm-HO-roh-ee) – Hello (polite, used for elders or strangers, or plural). "Mhoro" (MHO-roh) – Hello (informal, for peers or younger). "Makadii?" (mah-kah-DEE-ee) – How are you? (polite/plural) "Ndiripo" (ndee-REE-poh) – I am fine (response). "Mangwanani" (mahn-gwah-NAH-nee) – Good morning. "Masikati" (mah-see-KAH-tee) – Good afternoon. "Manheru" (mah-NHEH-roo) – Good evening. "Ndatenda" (ndah-TEN-dah) or "Maita basa" (my-EE-tah BAH-sah) – Thank you ("Maita basa" literally means "thank you for your work," often used when someone has done something for you). Ndebele (second most widely spoken, prevalent around Victoria Falls/Bulawayo): "Salibonani" (sah-lee-boh-NAH-nee) – Hello (plural/polite). "Sawubona" (sah-oo-BOH-nah) – Hello (singular). "Kunjani?" (koon-JAH-nee) – How are you? "Ngiyafunda" (n-gee-yah-FOON-dah) – I am fine (response). "Siyabonga" (see-yah-BOH-nga) – Thank you. 2. Non-Verbal Cues & Gestures Clapping Hands: Clapping twice is a common way to say "thank you," especially when someone is handing you something (food, a drink, a purchase, or a gift). Men typically clap with hands straight, fingertips and wrists meeting. Women often "golf clap" with their hands crossed, palms arched, or with one hand softly hitting the other, making a repeated sound. Clapping can also be a general sign of respect or appreciation, particularly towards elders. In traditional settings, a daughter-in-law or son-in-law may clap hands as a sign of respect when meeting their in-laws. Receiving/Giving Items: Always use your right hand when giving or receiving anything. If using both hands, it often signifies respect or the importance of the item. Eye Contact: Direct eye contact is generally acceptable in formal situations or with peers. However, younger people or those of lower social standing may avoid direct eye contact with elders as a sign of respect and deference. If an elder is speaking to you, it's often respectful to lower your gaze slightly. Pointing: Avoid pointing with a single finger. Instead, gesture with an open hand or nod your head in the direction you are indicating. Personal Space: Zimbabweans generally value personal space. Avoid overly intimate gestures in public, such as excessive hugging or kissing, especially with strangers. Hugging is common among friends and family. Kneeling/Squatting: In some traditional contexts, women may lightly kneel or half-kneel (kutyora muzura) when greeting or serving elders. Men may squat down when interacting with elders or those they respect. While tourists are not expected to do this, observing it shows respect. Showing the Sole of Your Foot: It's considered rude to point the bottom of your foot or shoe at someone. Avoid propping your feet up on furniture in public. Smiling: A genuine smile is universally appreciated and goes a long way! 3. Local Customs & Etiquette Dress Code: In urban areas, dress is generally relaxed. However, in rural areas and when visiting places of worship, it's best to dress modestly. For women, this typically means avoiding very short skirts, shorts, or revealing tops. Men should generally wear shirts with sleeves and long trousers in more formal or traditional settings. Respect for Elders: Elders hold a highly respected position in Zimbabwean society. Always show them deference and address them with appropriate titles if you know them (e.g., "Sekuru" for an older man, "Mbuya" for an older woman, meaning grandfather/grandmother). Hospitality & Food: Zimbabweans are incredibly hospitable. If invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift (e.g., fruit, sugar, cooking oil, bread, or soft drinks). Refusing food or drink can be seen as impolite. Even if you're not hungry, accept a small portion as a sign of appreciation. You can always say you're full after taking a small bite. In some traditional homes, meals are eaten with hands (especially sadza, the staple food). If so, always use your right hand. Wash your hands before and after the meal. Wait until the host begins eating or invites you to start. Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural communities. Some may find it intrusive. If they agree, it's courteous to show them the picture afterwards. Avoid photographing government buildings or military personnel. Bargaining: In local markets, bargaining is expected and part of the experience. Do so politely and with a smile. Tipping: Tipping is appreciated in the hospitality industry. Restaurants/Cafes: 10-15% is common for good service, though not always expected outside major cities. Tour Guides/Drivers/Hotel Staff: Small tips (a few dollars or a token of appreciation) are polite. Patience: Things might operate at a more relaxed pace than you're used to. Embrace "African time". There is no hurry in Africa and be patient. Queuing: Zimbabweans value orderly queues in banks, shops, and transport hubs. Cutting in line is considered rude. Politics: It's generally wise to avoid engaging in political discussions with locals, especially with people you don't know well. If you engage in local politics most locals close up and suddenly withdraw from the conversation likely ruining your pleasant experience. By being mindful of these customs, you'll show respect for the local culture and undoubtedly enhance your travel experience in Zimbabwe. Enjoy your trip!