Things To Do
in Harare
Harare, the bustling capital city of Zimbabwe, serves as the country's main commercial and cultural hub, marrying modern architecture with verdant botanical gardens and parks. It is a city of contrast, where lively street markets and vibrant art scenes coexist with remnants of colonial-era buildings.
Known for its friendly atmosphere and relatively pleasant climate, Harare is a gateway to the beautiful landscapes and wildlife that embody Zimbabwe's rich natural heritage.
- "Wakadini zvako?" - How are you?
- "Ndiwe chete!" - It's just you!
- "Ndokumbirawo!" - Please!
- "Ndinokuda!" - I love you!
- "Makorokoto!" - Congratulations!
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the National Gallery of Zimbabwe to enjoy African art and culture. Have breakfast at a nearby café before heading out for your next activity.
After lunch, explore the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences, which showcases the country's rich heritage. Spend your afternoon relaxing at the Harare Botanical Gardens.
Wind down with dinner at a traditional Zimbabwean restaurant. Take a leisurely stroll through the downtown area to absorb the city's evening ambiance.
Begin your day at the Domboshawa Caves, where you can view ancient rock paintings. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst the beautiful scenery.
Continue to the nearby Mukuvisi Woodlands for a walking safari. Witness some wildlife while enjoying a packed lunch in the serene environment.
Return to the city for a cozy dinner at a local grill house. Take the evening to relax at your hotel while reflecting on your adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with diverse traditions and festivals.
- Vibrant arts scene, including music, dance, and theater.
- Natural beauty with various parks and recreational areas, including nearby wildlife parks.
- Growing opportunities in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and mining.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to many Western cities.
- Economic instability and high inflation rates affecting daily life.
- Limited access to reliable public services, such as healthcare and education.
- Infrastructure challenges, including unreliable electricity and water supply.
- Political instability and concerns about governance may affect safety and security.
- High unemployment rates, particularly among the youth.
Best Activities in Harare
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse plant species and enjoy a tranquil outdoor environment.
Experience the natural beauty of the park, spot wildlife, and enjoy activities like birdwatching and hiking.
Engage in water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking with stunning views.
Discover rock formations, caves, and ancient rock art while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Harare with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Harare
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Harare and is a great spot for photography
Features beautiful sculptures set amidst landscaped gardens, providing unique photo opportunities
Provides a chance to get up close to wildlife and capture memorable moments through photography
Food in Harare
Harare Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple in Zimbabwean cuisine, sadza, a thick maize porridge, is often served with succulent grilled meat, known as nyama. Try this dish at Harare Gardens Picnic Site or The Boma - Dinner & Drum Show.
Must-Try!
Mopane worms, a seasonal delicacy, are often sautéed with tomatoes and onions. For an authentic experience, head to Mbare Musika market or local street vendors.
A popular street food, chimodho, a type of savory meat pie, can be savored at food stalls along Samora Machel Avenue or First Street.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Harare better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest markets offering a wide range of fresh produce and street food, including fried bream fish and traditional maize snacks.
This market is an ideal spot to sample local street food and uncover unique culinary finds within a lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet others with a handshake and a warm smile. Handshakes are typically light and not overly firm.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Zimbabwean culture. It is customary to address elders with appropriate titles and show deference in interactions.
When presenting a gift, it is considered polite to use both hands. Additionally, gifts are often given and received with expressions of gratitude and humility.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Harare with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Harare
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not expected in Harare, Zimbabwe. However, it is appreciated in upscale restaurants and hotels, where a 10% tip may be given if a service charge is not included in the bill.
Cash is the most widely accepted form of payment in Harare, Zimbabwe. Credit cards are also accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Harare.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Harare is during the dry season when the weather is pleasant, and wildlife viewing is excellent. Expect sunny days and cool nights.
During the wet season, expect hot and humid weather with occasional heavy rainfall. This season is less popular for tourists due to the challenging travel conditions and increased risk of malaria.
Harare at Night
Hiking in Harare
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot offering breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.
A nature reserve located near the city center, providing well-marked trails for hiking.
Offers trails with beautiful landscapes and is great for outdoor enthusiasts.
Known for its scenic views and moderate hiking trails suitable for all skill levels.
Famous for its rock formations and caves, it's a popular destination for hikers and adventurers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Harare through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Harare by plane.
The main international airport serving Harare, Zimbabwe. It operates flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Located in Johannesburg, South Africa, approximately 550 km from Harare, it is the busiest airport in Africa and an important international gateway.
Situated near Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, about 450 km from Harare, it serves as a tourist hub with international flights.
Located in Lusaka, Zambia, approximately 1,200 km from Harare, it connects to various international destinations and serves as a key regional airport.
Located in Nairobi, Kenya, approximately 1,400 km from Harare, it is one of the major international hubs in East Africa.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Zimbabwe, making up a significant portion of Harare's population.
The second largest ethnic group in Zimbabwe, with a smaller presence in Harare compared to Shona.
A mixed-race community in Zimbabwe with a distinct cultural identity.
Comprising mainly white Zimbabweans and some expatriates, this group represents a small minority in Harare.
Includes people of Indian and Chinese descent, also constituting a minority within the city's population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Harare, with a strong local fan base and several professional teams.
Cricket is widely played and followed, with both domestic and international matches often drawing large crowds.
Rugby has a significant presence, with various clubs and schools competing at different levels.
Netball is particularly popular among women, with numerous leagues and school competitions.
Athletics is popular among youth, with schools regularly hosting competitions in various track and field events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Harare.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Harare's restaurants and cafes are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for establishments that emphasize farm-to-table and plant-based ingredients.
While gluten-free awareness is growing, it may still be helpful to communicate your dietary needs in advance when dining out, especially at upscale restaurants.