Things To Do
in Norton
Norton is a Zimbabwean town located about 40 to 60 kilometers north of Harare, along the A3 highway, serving as a rural-urban gateway to Mashonaland West. The town blends markets, small businesses, and community life with easy access to the surrounding countryside. Its pace is relaxed compared to the capital, offering approachable dining, markets, and pleasant river glimpses.
With the Mazowe River nearby and frequent day trips to nearby farms and viewpoints, Norton makes a convenient base for a laid-back Zimbabwean countryside experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Norton Museum, where you can explore the rich history and culture of the area. Engage with local guides who will share fascinating stories about the town's heritage and historical figures. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, sampling traditional Zimbabwean dishes.
Stroll through the charming streets of Norton, taking in the local architecture and vibrant street art. Stop by the local market to shop for handmade crafts and fresh produce, immersing yourself in the daily life of the community. Grab lunch at a popular eatery known for its delicious local cuisine.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local bar or restaurant to enjoy a meal with views of the surrounding landscape. Savor some traditional Zimbabwean fare while listening to live music from local artists. Take a leisurely walk back to your accommodation under the starry sky, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Rise early and head to Lake Chivero, a short drive from Norton, for a morning nature walk. The area is a haven for birdwatchers, so be sure to bring your binoculars and camera to capture the diverse bird species. Enjoy the fresh air and tranquility as you wander along the lakeshore, surrounded by beautiful scenery.
After your walk, enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake while taking in the stunning views. Consider renting a boat for an afternoon of exploring the lake's hidden coves and spots. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles, while enjoying the serenity of the water.
Return to Norton in the evening and dine at a local restaurant known for its grilled specialties. Engage with locals and share stories over a hearty meal, trying out traditional dishes like sadza and nyama. Wind down your day by enjoying a drink at a nearby pub while chatting with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short trip) | $5-12 |
| 🛒Groceries for one day | $10-25 |
| 🎟️Entertainment or event admission | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Harare for easy access to larger facilities and transport links
- Warm, welcoming communities with affordable local experiences
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to major cities
- Rural roads and market areas can be crowded and require patience
- "Mhoro" - Hello
- "Wakadini zvako?" - How are you?
- "Ndatenda" - Thank you
- "Ndapota" - Please
- "Zita rako nani?" - What is your name?
Places to Visit in Norton
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic viewpoints along the Mazowe River with golden hour light and reflections, ideal for landscape photography.
Colorful stalls, vendors, and daily life scenes offering candid street photography opportunities.
Historic buildings and quiet streets provide architectural photography with a regional flair.
Food in Norton
Norton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional staple of maize meal porridge served with beef stew or grilled meat. A common main at local eateries and braai spots.
Must-Try!
Small dried fish fried and served with greens (muriwo) and sadza. A classic, affordable option found at market stalls and neighborhood eateries.
Greens cooked in a rich peanut butter sauce, a popular vegetarian-friendly side or main when paired with sadza.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling local market offering fresh produce, DIY crafts, roasted maize, and street snacks. A great place to sample seasonal flavors and meet residents.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm greeting is appreciated; shake hands and use a friendly tone. Show respect to elders and avoid loud public displays of anger.
Ask for permission before photographing people or private spaces; some locals may prefer not to be photographed.
Dress modestly in town and at markets; remove hats indoors in some venues; use the right hand when giving or receiving items.
Safety
Tipping in Norton
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated if no service charge is included; for good service, 10–15% is common. Informal settings often accept small tips in cash.
Cash is widely used, but mobile money (EcoCash, OneMoney) and card payments are increasingly accepted at larger establishments and hotels. Carry small denominations for tips and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with frequent afternoon showers and thunderstorms; stay hydrated, carry a lightweight jacket for evening rain, and wear sun protection.
Warm days with cooler nights; comfortable for outdoor activities, but occasional rain can occur.
Cool to chilly mornings and evenings; days are often mild, so layering is key.
Mild temperatures with increasing greenery and occasional showers; good for hikes and outdoor markets.
Norton at Night
Hiking in Norton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hiking along scenic valley routes with river views and opportunities to spot local birds.
Rural countryside trail passing through farms and small settlements with vantage points over rolling hills.
Airports
How to reach Norton by plane.
Main international gateway for Harare; about an hour to over an hour's drive from Norton depending on traffic. Regular domestic and international flights.
Small airstrips or charter services may operate within the broader Harare region, useful for quick transfers or private charters planning.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Shona-speaking Zimbabweans, with a mix of rural and urban residents and some seasonal workers from nearby areas.
Small but growing number of domestic travelers and regional tourists exploring Mashonaland West.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local leagues and informal games are common in towns and schools.
Popular in schools and community clubs; matches and practice sessions are typical during the season.
Played at schools and clubs; reflectively visible in regional sports events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Norton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer muriwo (greens) dishes, peanut sauce (dovi), or sadza with vegetables; ask for fresh vegetables, beans, and peanut-based sauces. If you’re dining at markets, point to fresh produce and request dishes without meat.