Things To Do
in Harare
Harare, the capital and largest city of Zimbabwe, serves as the country’s vibrant political and cultural hub. It blends modern commerce with leafy suburbs, art galleries, and bustling markets. The city is renowned for its warm hospitality, live music, and a food scene that fuses Shona traditions with cosmopolitan flavors.
Set at a mild elevation, Harare acts as a gateway to Zimbabwean landscapes and parks while offering a comfortable base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, where you can admire a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional art. After soaking in the culture, stroll through the historic streets of Harare, taking in the colonial architecture and local markets. Don't forget to stop by the nearby Africa Unity Square to enjoy a coffee while people-watching.
Head to the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences, where you can learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of Zimbabwe. Explore the fascinating exhibits, including ancient artifacts and displays on the evolution of humans in Africa. For lunch, try a local restaurant to sample traditional dishes like sadza and stew.
As the sun sets, visit Mbare Musika, one of Zimbabwe's largest markets, to experience the vibrant atmosphere and local crafts. You can pick up unique souvenirs and enjoy street food from various vendors. Conclude your evening with a local music performance at a nearby venue, soaking in the lively rhythms of Zimbabwean music.
Begin your day with a peaceful walk in the Harare Botanical Gardens, home to a stunning variety of indigenous and exotic plants. The morning air is fresh, and the beautiful landscape provides an ideal setting for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Take some time to appreciate the various sculptures and art installations scattered throughout the gardens.
After your nature walk, enjoy a relaxed lunch at the garden's café, where you can sample local dishes while overlooking the lush greenery. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Zimparks headquarters to learn more about Zimbabwe's national parks and conservation efforts. You may even find opportunities to book future excursions to explore the country's incredible wildlife.
As evening approaches, head to the Avondale area, known for its trendy shops and restaurants. Choose a cozy eatery for dinner, where you can indulge in a mix of local and international cuisine. After your meal, unwind with a stroll through the vibrant streets, possibly catching a live band at a local bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🚖Taxi 1 km | $0.50-1.00 |
| 🧃Coke (0.33 L) in city center | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and rich cultural scene
- Reasonable costs and a central base for exploring the country
- Economic fluctuations and occasional service variability
- Power and internet reliability can vary by area
- "Mhoro" - Hello
- "Wakadini zvako?" - How are you?
- "Ndatenda" - Thank you
- "Ndapota" - Please
- "Ehe" - Yes
- "Kwete" - No
- "Zvakanaka" - Okay / Fine
Places to Visit in Harare
Visit one of these nice places.
A focal point for modern and historic Zimbabwean art with architecture and galleries that provide interesting backdrops for photos.
A green oasis in the city center offering lush landscapes, fountains, and seasonal blooms ideal for nature and portrait photography.
A nature reserve on the edge of town with woodland trails and opportunities to photograph birds and wildlife in a managed setting.
Iconic urban spaces with bold architecture and public art that frame urban life and street scenes.
Ancient caves with cliff faces and rock art set against a dramatic landscape; great for landscape and heritage photography.
Food in Harare
Harare Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple maize meal served with meat or greens and occasionally dovi (peanut sauce).
Must-Try!
Small dried fish cooked with onions and tomato sauce, commonly served with sadza and greens.
A peanut butter sauce served over greens or with meat, a beloved companion to sadza.
A hearty mix of boiled corn and beans, sometimes enjoyed with a protein for a comforting meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market area where you can taste street snacks, buy fresh produce, and observe daily life in Harare.
Vibrant stalls with crafts, textiles, and food vendors showcasing local flavors.
A hub for affordable artwork, souvenirs, and casual dining options in a lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin conversations with a warm greeting; show respect to elders; avoid raised voices in public and keep calm in busy spaces.
Dress modestly in public spaces and at religious sites; avoid overly casual or revealing clothing in formal settings.
Ask permission when photographing people or religious sites; in markets, be mindful of locals who may want to be included or not photographed.
Safety
Tipping in Harare
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included. For hotel staff and guides, small tips are appreciated.
Cash in USD or local currency is widely accepted, especially in markets. Many places also take card payments at larger hotels and restaurants, while mobile payments like EcoCash are common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, carry a light rain jacket, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Cool to mild days with cooler nights; pleasant for walking and city exploring. Layers are recommended, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Typically runs through the warmer months with regular showers; expect high humidity and occasional travel delays. Pack a compact umbrella and waterproof footwear.
Harare at Night
Hiking in Harare
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking to the caves north of Harare offers cliff faces, rock art, and sweeping views of the countryside.
Accessible nature trails just outside the city with wildlife sightings and scenic photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Harare by plane.
Harare's main international gateway located about 12-15 km from the city center; connects to regional and international destinations.
Zimbabwe's gateway to the famous falls, located in the northwest region; suitable for onward travel to Harare by domestic flight or road trip.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group across urban and rural areas; English is widely spoken in business and government contexts.
Small but culturally influential community with distinct traditions and dialects.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in urban and rural communities; games commonly watched in cafes and stadiums.
A strong following among locals, with matches and clubs featuring regional teams.
Played mainly in schools and clubs, with occasional professional fixtures in major cities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Harare.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetable stews, corn-based dishes, or dovi with greens; most places can prepare meat-free versions of traditional meals. In many markets, vegetarian options are available at stalls and casual eateries.