Practical information for the Worldwide Symposium on Geographical Indications 2025
Exhibition
A captivating exhibition of potential Geographical Indications products from Zimbabwe will be opened on the first day of the Symposium. The exhibition aims to celebrate and promote the unique products and their role in preserving cultural heritage. Zimbabwe is proud to participate in this exhibition, showcasing a diverse array of local products from across the country. Join us in discovering the rich tapestry of craftsmanship and agricultural excellence!
Conference badges
Conference badges will be available on Thursday, May 1, 2025, from 8.30 to 10.00 at the Registration counter, located next to the Conference room, of the Elephant Hills Resort.
Working languages
The working languages of the Symposium will be English and French, with simultaneous interpretation.
Entry visa
Visas for Zimbabwe are issued based on different categories as follows:
- Category A: Countries who do not require a visa to enter Zimbabwe
- Category B: Countries who require visas to enter Zimbabwe and who can obtain them on arrival.
- Category C: Countries who require visas to enter Zimbabwe and who must obtain them before arrival.
Venue and accommodation
The Symposium will take place at:
Elephant Hills Resort
328 Park Way Drive, Victoria Falls,
Victoria Falls
Zimbabwe
Recommended hotels [PDF]
Participants should made their own reservations. All bills are to be settled directly with the hotel.
Airport transfer
The recommended hotels are within easy reach of Victoria Falls International Airport.
The taxi fare will be approximately (US$30) and will take 20 minutes from listed hotels/venue. Taxis can be taken directly from the airport or can be aranged directly with your hotel for a shuttle.
The taxi fare will be approximately (US$30) and will take 20 minutes from listed hotels/venue. Taxis can be taken directly from the airport or can be aranged directly with your hotel for a shuttle.
Local time, climate
The local time for Victoria Falls is GMT+2.
In May, Victoria Falls generally is mild and dry. Average high temperatures ranging from 25-27°C (77-81°F) and average lows between 7-10°C (45-50°F). Temperatures continue to fall, particularly during the nights, signifying the approach of winter in Zimbabwe.
In May, Victoria Falls generally is mild and dry. Average high temperatures ranging from 25-27°C (77-81°F) and average lows between 7-10°C (45-50°F). Temperatures continue to fall, particularly during the nights, signifying the approach of winter in Zimbabwe.
Currency, electricity
The Zimbabwean Gold and US Dollars are the two currencies used in the country.
The electric power provided in Victoria Falls is 220V and 50Hz. Power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type D and type G are used.
The electric power provided in Victoria Falls is 220V and 50Hz. Power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type D and type G are used.
Conference Safety and Security
Although Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls City are safe places, isolated criminal acts, often opportunistic, are sometime reported, especially in urban areas. Therefore, the usual security precautions should be observed.
WIPO’s Safety and Security Services goal is to ensure a safe and successful conference for all participants. Participants are reminded to apply best practices for personal safety and security when traveling abroad.
If you have any questions on personal safety and or conference security management, please do not hesitate to contact the WIPO conference security focal point.
WIPO’s Safety and Security Services goal is to ensure a safe and successful conference for all participants. Participants are reminded to apply best practices for personal safety and security when traveling abroad.
If you have any questions on personal safety and or conference security management, please do not hesitate to contact the WIPO conference security focal point.
Medical Recommendations for Participant Traveling to Zimbabwe
Immunizations
- Yellow Fever: Required only if traveling from a Yellow Fever risk country (including >12-hour airport transits).
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Polio & Hepatitis A: Recommended.
Malaria Prevention
- Malaria is present year-round.
- Prophylaxis is strongly advised—continue for 1-4 weeks after return (depending on medication).Please consult with your doctor prior departure.
- Protective Measures:
- Use insect repellent during the day (dengue risk).
- Avoid mosquitoes at dusk, night, and dawn.
- Wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing at night.
- Seek immediate medical help for flu-like symptoms (possible malaria).
Food & Water Safety
- Water: Drink only bottled, boiled, or treated water (avoid ice cubes).
- Food: Eat well-cooked meals; avoid raw salads, undercooked seafood, cold cuts, mayonnaise, ice cream, and dairy.
- Fruits/Vegetables: Wash, dry, and peel them yourself.
- Handwashing: Use clean towels.
Medical Support
- First aid & emergency care will be available on-site (doctor & nurse from Victoria Falls Hospital) - Victoria Falls District Hospital : (+263) 83 2844262.