Harare - Discovering Zimbabwe

Travelling to Harare

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Harare, a pretty good destination in Zimbabwe (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Harare and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Harare, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Zimbabwe, here's everything to know about Harare for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Harare

Harare is the capital city of Zimbabwe, located in the northeastern part of the country. It has a downtown area that is surrounded by several suburbs. The population of Harare is approximately 1.6 million people. The official language is English, although Shona and Ndebele are also spoken. The currency used is the Zimbabwean dollar. The city has a tropical savanna climate characterized by warm to hot temperatures and high humidity, with its wet season from November to March and a dry season from April to October. Harare is known for its beautiful parks, museums, and historical sites, such as the National Gallery of Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences. It is also the gateway to other popular tourist destinations in Zimbabwe, such as Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park.

What to visit in Harare

Here are some of the most prominent tourist attractions in Harare, Zimbabwe: 1. Victoria Falls: This iconic, majestic waterfall is one of the world’s most significant natural wonders. It’s a breathtaking sight to behold with a height of more than 100 meters and a width of over 1.5 kilometers. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as helicopter sightseeing tours, bungee jumping, and white water rafting.
2. National Gallery of Zimbabwe: It’s a visual art museum that showcases various artworks from contemporary to traditional Zimbabwean art. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and people who want to explore the country’s culture.
3. Mbare Market: It is a vibrant and bustling market located in the center of Harare. It sells various items, including handmade crafts, clothes, shoes, and fresh vegetables and fruits. Visitors can bargain for prices and come home with some unique souvenirs.
4. Mukuvisi Woodlands: Visitors can have a peaceful break from the city and enjoy an array of wildlife. The woodlands offer guided walks and drives, bird watching and camping.
5. National Heroes Acre: This is a national monument and shrine located on a hilltop just outside Harare. Visitors can learn about the country's history and culture and pay tribute to Zimbabwe’s heroes and heroines. 6. The Chapungu Sculpture Park: It’s an outdoor sculpture garden showcasing original African stone carvings and other works of art. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day viewing sculptures amongst the lush gardens.
These are just some examples of the many attractions in Harare. Every visitor will find something unique in the city.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Zimbabwe, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Harare.

When to go on holiday to Harare

The best time to visit Harare, Zimbabwe is during the dry season which is from May to October. During these months there is low rainfall and moderate temperatures. The cooler months of May to September are great for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities such as hiking. The temperature is comfortable, and there are typically fewer mosquitoes. October is a good time to visit as it marks the beginning of the hot dry season. However, it is important to note that this is the high season and prices tend to be higher.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Harare

There are a few ways to get to Harare, Zimbabwe. The most common ways are: 1. By air: Harare International Airport (HRE) is the main airport in Zimbabwe and welcomes many international flights. Airlines like South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Emirates fly into HRE from major cities across the world.
2. By road: If you're coming from neighboring countries like South Africa or Zambia, you can enter Zimbabwe by road. There are several border posts with immigration facilities for visitors to cross into Zimbabwe.
3. By train: National Railways of Zimbabwe operates trains connecting major towns and cities within the country as well as neighboring countries. However, this option is not recommended for long travels as trains are often slow and unreliable.
Overall, the easiest and most convenient way to get to Harare is by air.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Harare, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Harare

Here are some typical foods of Harare, Zimbabwe, along with a short description for each: 1. Sadza - This is a staple food in Zimbabwe made from maize meal and water. It is usually served with a relish such as vegetables, meat or fish.
2. Mupunga une dovi - This is a traditional Zimbabwean rice dish cooked with a spicy peanut butter sauce (dovi).
3. Chicken Inn - This is a popular fast food restaurant in Zimbabwe, known for its delicious fried chicken and sides such as chips and coleslaw.
4. Kapenta with Sadza - Kapenta is a type of small fish, typically dried and salted, which is popular in Zimbabwe. It is often served with sadza.
5. Biltong - This is a dried meat snack, similar to jerky, which is popular in Zimbabwe. It is often made from beef or game meat and is a popular snack to take on trips.
6. Nyama - This is a grilled meat dish that is popular in Zimbabwe, often made with beef or goat meat.
7. Matemba - This is a traditional fish dish made by drying the fish in the sun and then cooking it with tomatoes, onions and other spices.
8. Veggies - Zimbabwe is known for its fresh and delicious vegetables, which are often grown locally. Some of the most popular veggies include pumpkin leaves, spinach and tomatoes.
9. Super Mazoe - This is a popular non-alcoholic drink in Zimbabwe made from a tropical fruit called the maoberry. It is sweet and refreshing, making it a popular choice on hot days.
You can find general info about typical foods in Zimbabwe here.

Is Harare an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other African destinations, Harare can be considered relatively expensive for tourists. However, the cost of traveling to Harare will depend on your travel style and budget. Accommodation options in Harare range from budget hostels to luxury hotels, and dining can be affordable if you stick to local restaurants and street food. On the other hand, transportation costs can be a bit higher than in some other African cities due to limited public transportation and the need for private transfers. Overall, Harare can be an expensive destination, but with careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to enjoy a trip to this beautiful city without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Harare

The best areas to find accommodation in Harare would be: 1. Borrowdale: This is an upscale suburb with plenty of hotels, lodges, and guesthouses.
2. Avondale: Another upscale area with a good range of accommodation options.
3. Belgravia: A quieter area with smaller guesthouses and boutique hotels.
4. Avenues: This area is closer to the city center and has a mix of budget and mid-range hotels.
5. Newlands: A residential area with a few hotels and lodges catering to business travelers.
Overall, it's advisable to choose accommodation in areas that are safe and easily accessible to the places you plan to visit in Harare.
You can check hotel prices at Harare here:
Booking.com

Is Harare a safe destination for tourists?

Harare is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any city, it is important to take certain precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night, not leaving your belongings unattended, and being aware of your surroundings. It is also advisable to take taxis or recommended transportation options when out and about. It is always recommended to check the travel advisory warnings issued by your embassy or the local authorities for up-to-date safety information.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Zimbabwe here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Harare.

What type of travelers will enjoy Harare the most?

Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe, offers a diverse range of activities, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. Here are some recommendations: - Couples: Harare is home to many boutique hotels, luxurious restaurants, and outdoor activities, making it a perfect place for couples looking for a romantic and adventurous getaway. Some of the best activities for couples include taking a picnic at the botanical garden, visiting the national gallery, and exploring wildlife at the Mukuvisi woodlands.
- Young people looking for fun: Harare is a bustling city with a vibrant nightlife scene, making it a prime destination for young people looking to have a great time. There are many bars, nightclubs, and live music venues where you can dance and party until the wee hours of the morning.
- Families: For families with kids, Harare offers many parks and outdoor activities, such as the Lion and Cheetah Park, the Mbizi Game Park, and the Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary. The city also has many child-friendly museums and a planetarium, which are great for educational and fun experiences.
Overall, Harare is a city that caters to all types of travelers, offering an excellent blend of culture, nature, and modern amenities.

How to get around Harare

In Harare, you can move around by using various modes of transportation such as buses, taxis, minibusses, and private cars. The most common mode of transportation for locals is the minibusses, also known as "kombies", which are shared taxis that operate on set routes. Taxis and private cars are also commonly used, and can be hailed on the street or arranged through a ride-hailing app. Buses are available and run on set routes, but they can be crowded and not very reliable. It's important to keep in mind that traffic can be heavy in Harare, especially during rush hour.

What to see around Harare

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Harare: 1. Chinhoyi Caves - A natural wonder featuring a series of limestone caves and pools that are ideal for swimming and caving.
2. Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary - A bird sanctuary that offers bird watching, bird shows, and boat rides on the lake.
3. Mukuvisi Woodlands - A natural reserve located within Harare city limits that offers a peaceful escape with hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife.
4. Domboshawa Rocks - A series of granite hills that are great for hiking, rock climbing, and spotting ancient rock paintings.
5. Lake Chivero Recreational Park - A park that offers boating, fishing, and game drives with opportunities to see wildlife such as elephants, lions, and zebras.
6. Lion and Cheetah Park - A wildlife sanctuary that offers a chance to see lions, cheetahs, and other animals up close.
7. Mazowe Dam and Snake Park - A scenic spot with a snake park and picnic areas.
8. Nyanga National Park - A national park that offers scenic drives, hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning mountain views.
These are just a few of the many options available for day trips from Harare, Zimbabwe.
For every travel information about Zimbabwe you can click here.

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