Harare, Captial of Zimbabwe
Why Visit Harare
While many travelers quickly pass through en route to Zimbabwe’s famous safari destinations, Harare rewards those who linger with:- Cultural immersion in Zimbabwe’s contemporary urban life
- World-class museums showcasing the country’s history and art
- Beautiful green spaces and botanical gardens
- Vibrant markets for authentic crafts and interaction
- Excellent restaurants featuring both local and international cuisine
- Friendly residents eager to share their city
- Flourishing arts scene with galleries and performance venues
Top Attractions
Historical and Cultural Sites
National Gallery of Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s premier art institution showcasing both historical and contemporary works:
- Outstanding collection of Shona stone sculptures
- Rotating exhibitions of contemporary Zimbabwean artists
- Permanent collection of traditional artifacts
- Beautiful sculpture garden
- Regular workshops and cultural events
- Museum shop with quality art pieces
- Location: 20 Julius Nyerere Way
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 9am-1pm
- Entry fee: $5 USD for international visitors
National Archives of Zimbabwe
Fascinating collection documenting Zimbabwe’s complex history:
- Historical documents and photographs
- Queen Victoria’s letter to King Lobengula
- Cecil Rhodes’ original documents
- Exhibition on the liberation struggle
- Rotating themed exhibitions
- Research facilities for those interested in deeper exploration
- Location: Borrowdale Road, Gunhill
- Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm
- Entry fee: $3 USD
National Heroes Acre
National monument honoring those who fought for Zimbabwe’s independence:
- Impressive hilltop location with panoramic views
- Distinctive architecture and symbolic statues
- Eternal flame and tomb of the unknown soldier
- Graves of national heroes
- Museum with liberation war exhibits
- Location: 6km south of city center
- Hours: Daily 8am-4:45pm
- Entry fee: $3 USD
- Note: Respectful behavior and dress expected
Museum of Human Sciences
Formerly the Queen Victoria Museum, showcasing Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage:
- Archaeological exhibits from Great Zimbabwe and other sites
- Ethnographic displays of traditional cultures
- Natural history section
- The famous seven Zimbabwe Birds from Great Zimbabwe
- Traditional musical instruments collection
- Location: 107 Rotten Row
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9am-4:30pm, Sunday 9am-1pm
- Entry fee: $5 USD
Parks and Natural Spaces
Harare Gardens
Tranquil city-center park offering escape from urban bustle:
- Landscaped gardens and mature trees
- Walking paths throughout
- Popular picnic spot for locals
- Hosts concerts and cultural events
- Quiet reading spots and park benches
- Adjacent to National Gallery
- Location: Central Harare, Julius Nyerere Way
- Hours: Daily, dawn to dusk
- Entry: Free
National Botanic Gardens
Over 900 species of trees and shrubs from across Zimbabwe:
- 58 hectares of cultivated gardens
- Representative collection of all Zimbabwe’s vegetation
- Aloe garden spectacular when flowering (July)
- Peaceful walking paths and labeled plants
- Bird watching opportunities (over 100 species)
- Educational exhibits on plant conservation
- Location: 5th Street Extension, Alexandra Park
- Hours: Daily 8am-4:45pm
- Entry fee: $2 USD
Lake Chivero Recreational Park
Day-trip destination 32km southwest of the city:
- Reservoir lake with boating and fishing
- Game park with zebra, giraffe, and antelope
- Bird sanctuary with over 400 species
- Hiking trails and picnic spots
- Weekend getaway for Harare residents
- Accommodation available for overnight stays
- Location: 32km from city center
- Hours: Daily 6am-6pm
- Entry fee: $10 USD
- Transportation: Best accessed by private vehicle or organized tour
Mukuvisi Woodlands
Urban nature reserve and environmental education center:
- 263 hectares of natural miombo woodland
- Small wildlife population including giraffe, zebra, impala
- Guided walking tours available
- Bird watching (over 150 species)
- Environmental education center
- Tea garden and picnic facilities
- Location: Hillside Road extension, Hillside
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 8am-5pm, Sunday 9am-5pm
- Entry fee: 15 for game viewing
Markets and Shopping
Harare offers diverse shopping experiences from traditional markets to modern malls:Mbare Musika:
- Largest and oldest traditional market in Zimbabwe
- Vibrant, authentic trading atmosphere
- Fresh produce section with seasonal fruits and vegetables
- Craft section with baskets, carvings, and traditional items
- Bustling with local activity and photogenic scenes
- Best visited with a local guide for easy navigation
- Location: Remembrance Drive, Mbare
- Hours: Daily from dawn until late afternoon
- Upscale craft market with quality goods
- Handcrafted jewelry, textiles, and art
- Curated selection from various artisans
- More relaxed atmosphere than Mbare
- Cafés nearby for refreshments
- Location: Avondale Shopping Centre
- Hours: Daily 9am-5:30pm, weekends busiest
- Upscale shopping complex in Borrowdale
- International and local brand stores
- Restaurants and coffee shops
- Supermarkets and specialty food stores
- Relaxed, open-air environment
- Location: Borrowdale Road
- Hours: Daily 9am-5:30pm, restaurants until later
- Artisanal craft market in northern suburbs
- High-quality Zimbabwean crafts and art
- Weekend farmers market with organic produce
- Garden setting with outdoor cafés
- Family-friendly environment
- Location: Doon Estate, northern suburbs
- Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 9am-4:30pm
Neighborhoods to Explore
Central Business District (CBD)
Central Business District (CBD)
The historic heart of Harare with colonial architecture and key institutions:
- African Unity Square: Central park with gardens and historic significance
- Parliament Building: Impressive colonial architecture (viewable from outside)
- Harare Gardens: City center green space
- First Street: Main pedestrian shopping street
- Cecil House: Historic colonial building
- National Gallery: Premier art institution
- Best explored during business hours (9am-3pm)
- Active commercial district with banks and businesses
- More quiet on weekends when businesses close
- Exercise normal urban precautions, especially after dark
- Many historical buildings with architectural interest
Avondale & Avenues
Avondale & Avenues
Creative district with cafés, restaurants, and shopping:
- Avondale Shopping Centre: Boutiques and flea market
- Second Street Extension: Restaurant row with diverse dining
- Art galleries and design shops
- Popular expat hangouts and meeting places
- Relaxed, walkable neighborhood
- Several good accommodations options
- Comfortable area for walking during daylight hours
- Good base for visitors with numerous guesthouses
- Some of the city’s best international restaurants
- Shopping areas busiest on weekends
- More relaxed atmosphere than the CBD
Borrowdale & Northern Suburbs
Borrowdale & Northern Suburbs
Upscale residential district with shopping and dining:
- Sam Levy’s Village: Upscale shopping complex
- Borrowdale Racecourse: Horse racing venue
- Wild Geese Lodge: Colonial mansion and restaurant
- Upmarket golf courses and country clubs
- Leafy streets with jacaranda trees
- Embassies and diplomatic residences
- Less walkable, best navigated by car or taxi
- Home to many of Harare’s luxury accommodations
- Higher-end shopping and dining experiences
- More modern feel than historic central areas
- Generally considered the safest area for tourists
Mbare Township
Mbare Township
Historic high-density suburb with cultural significance:
- Mbare Musika: Zimbabwe’s largest market
- Stodart Hall: Historic venue for political meetings
- Mai Musodzi Hall: Community cultural center
- Rufaro Stadium: Important football venue
- Vibrant street life and real urban Zimbabwe
- Best visited with a local guide
- Cultural immersion opportunity
- Morning visits recommended
- Keep valuables secure and be discreet with cameras
- Authentic experience of everyday urban Zimbabwean life
Food and Dining
Harare offers Zimbabwe’s most diverse dining scene, from traditional local cuisine to international options:Local Cuisine
Experience authentic Zimbabwean flavors:Recommended Restaurants:
- Garwe Restaurant: Traditional dishes in a cultural setting
- Gava’s: Authentic Zimbabwean food in relaxed environment
- Queen of Hearts: Fusion of traditional and contemporary
- Amanzi Restaurant: Zimbabwean ingredients with international flair
- Sadza ne nyama (maize meal with meat stew)
- Derere (okra) with peanut sauce
- Muriwo une dovi (greens with peanut butter)
- Madora (mopane worms) for the adventurous
- Mapopo candy (papaya sweets)
International Dining
Global flavors in the cosmopolitan capital:Asian Cuisine:
- Fishmonger: Japanese and seafood
- Shangri-La: Authentic Chinese
- Delhi Palace: Indian cuisine
- La Fontaine: Fine French dining at Meikles Hotel
- Coimbra: Portuguese restaurant with seafood focus
- Pariah State: Gastropub with craft beer
- Victoria 22: Contemporary African cuisine
- Alo Alo: Pan-African dishes
- Sabbaba: Mediterranean and Middle Eastern
Cafés & Coffee Shops
Places to relax and refuel:
- Café Nush: Popular for breakfast and lunch, multiple locations
- Freshly Ground: Excellent coffee and light meals
- Nomad: Hip café with good WiFi and workspace
- The Avocado Café: Health-focused menu and smoothies
- Lola’s Tapas: Casual Mediterranean tapas and coffees
- Growing specialty coffee scene
- Several cafés serving Zimbabwe-grown coffee
- Digital nomad-friendly spaces emerging
- Weekend brunch culture popular among locals
Nightlife & Entertainment
Evening venues and experiences:
- Tin Roof: Lively bar with live music
- The Meat Co: Upscale dining and bar
- Maestro Restaurant & Bar: Weekend DJ sets
- Sky Bar: Rooftop venue at Monomotapa Hotel
- Thai Safari: Restaurant with weekend entertainment
- Theatre in the Park: Live performances
- Reps Theatre: Productions throughout the year
- Book Café: Cultural venue with music and poetry
- 7 Arts Theatre: Various performances
Accommodation
Harare offers lodging options across budget ranges:Luxury:
- Meikles Hotel: Historic five-star landmark in city center
- Rainbow Towers Hotel: Modern high-rise with extensive facilities
- Bronte Hotel: Colonial charm with beautiful gardens
- The Amanzi Lodge: Boutique luxury in northern suburbs
- Cresta Lodge: Business-friendly in quiet setting
- Holiday Inn Harare: Convenient city center location
- N1 Hotel: Modern, functional option
- York Lodge: Intimate guesthouse in Highlands area
- Small World Backpackers: Popular hostel with social atmosphere
- New Ambassador Hotel: Basic but central accommodation
- Harare Safari Lodge: Affordable rooms outside city center
- Numerous guesthouses: Particularly in Avondale and Mount Pleasant
- Northern suburbs (Highlands, Borrowdale): Safer, quieter, upscale
- City Center: Convenient but busier and less recommended at night
- Avenues area: Good compromise of convenience and comfort
Practical Information
How Much Time to Spend
How Much Time to Spend
- Minimum: 1 full day for main highlights
- Comfortable: 2-3 days to explore properly and adjust to time zones
- Extended: 4-5 days to use as base for day trips to Eastern Highlands
- Day 1: City center attractions and National Gallery
- Day 2: Markets, shopping, and Mukuvisi Woodlands
- Day 3: Day trip to Domboshawa or Lake Chivero
Getting Around
Getting Around
Transportation Options:
-
Taxis: Most reliable option for visitors
- Registered taxis available at hotels and shopping centers
- Negotiate fare before departure (no meters)
- Hotels can arrange reliable services
- Typical city fare: $5-10 USD
- Ride apps: Vaya Africa (similar to Uber) operates in Harare
-
Car Rental: Good option for comfortable exploration
- International agencies at airport and in city
- Driving is on the left side
- City driving relatively straightforward by African standards
- Parking generally available at attractions
-
Public Transport: Challenging for visitors
- Kombis (minibuses) serve local routes
- Difficult to navigate without local knowledge
- Not recommended for tourists
- Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport is 15km from city
- Pre-arranged hotel transfers recommended
- Airport taxis available but negotiate fare ($20-30 typical)
- Some upscale hotels offer complimentary transfers
Money Matters
Money Matters
- Most tourist establishments accept USD cash
- Major hotels and restaurants take credit cards (Visa/Mastercard)
- Notify your bank before travel to prevent card blocks
- ATMs available but not always reliable for international cards
- Bring sufficient USD cash in small denominations
- Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) local currency used in some local establishments
- Currency exchange available at banks and hotels
- Higher-end restaurants and hotels might have 10-15% service charge
Safety & Etiquette
Safety & Etiquette
Safety Tips:
- Harare is generally safer than many African capitals
- Normal urban precautions recommended
- Avoid displaying expensive items and electronics
- Use hotel safes for valuables and passports
- Night walking not recommended, especially in CBD
- Photographing government buildings prohibited
- Greeting before business is considered essential
- Conservative dress recommended, especially in business settings
- Zimbabweans generally formal in professional interactions
- Taking time for pleasantries appreciated
- Public displays of anger rarely well-received
Day Trips from Harare
Domboshawa
Impressive granite dome with ancient rock art (30km north):
- Massive balancing rock formations
- Cave paintings dating back thousands of years
- Moderate hiking opportunities
- Panoramic views of surrounding countryside
- Natural rock pools (seasonal)
- Important spiritual site for local communities
- Allow half-day minimum
- Entrance fee: $5 USD
- Accessible by private vehicle or tour
- Local guides available at entrance
- Combine with nearby Ngomakurira for full day
Great Zimbabwe (Extended)
UNESCO World Heritage site as long day trip or overnight:
- Ancient stone city ruins from 11th-15th centuries
- Zimbabwe’s most important archaeological site
- Museum with artifacts and historical context
- Massive walls built without mortar
- Architectural marvel and historical wonder
- 280km from Harare (3.5-hour drive each way)
- Better as overnight trip
- Entrance fee: $15 USD
- Best with knowledgeable guide
- Nearby Lake Mutirikwi offers additional activities
Chinhoyi Caves
Limestone caves with stunning blue pool (120km northwest):
- Crystal-clear cobalt blue waters in Sleeping Pool
- Limestone cave system with stalactites
- Popular swimming spot (experienced swimmers only)
- Wonder Hole viewing area
- National monument with historical significance
- Full-day trip from Harare
- Entrance fee: $5 USD
- Restaurant and picnic facilities available
- Bring swimwear if planning to swim
- Combine with Lion & Cheetah Park nearby
Bushman Rock Vineyards
Zimbabwe’s premier winery (45km southeast):
- Wine tasting and vineyard tours
- Restaurant with farm-to-table cuisine
- Accommodation available for overnight stays
- Scenic location with mountain views
- Archaeological sites with rock paintings
- Half-day trip from Harare
- Wine tasting: $10-15 USD
- Booking recommended for restaurant
- Combines well with Ruzawi Falls nearby
- Ideal weekend activity
Best Times to Visit
Harare enjoys a moderate climate with distinct seasons:April-May (Autumn)
- Weather: Mild days (21-26°C), cool evenings
- Advantages: Lush landscapes after rainy season
- Considerations: Some rainy days possible early April
- Events: HIFA (Harare International Festival of the Arts) in late April/May
- Weather: Warm sunny days (18-23°C), cold nights (can drop to 5-10°C)
- Advantages: Virtually no rain, clear skies
- Considerations: Pack layers for cool mornings/evenings
- Events: Zimbabwe International Film Festival (August)
- Weather: Increasingly hot (25-32°C), very dry
- Advantages: Jacaranda trees bloom in October (purple-lined streets)
- Considerations: Can be uncomfortably hot by late October
- Events: Harare Agricultural Show (August/September)
- Weather: Warm (23-28°C) with afternoon thunderstorms
- Advantages: Lush green landscapes, fewer tourists
- Considerations: Rain can disrupt outdoor activities
- Events: Festive season celebrations (December)
Harare for Different Travelers
Business Travelers
Tips for productive business visits:
- Central business district hosts most corporate offices
- Business-friendly accommodations: Meikles, Rainbow Towers
- Best meeting venues: Meikles Hotel, Monomotapa
- Co-working spaces: Impact Hub Harare, Space2B
- Business etiquette more formal than Western standards
- Allow extra time for appointments due to potential delays
- Power banks recommended for potential outages
- Quality business hotels have backup generators
Families
Child-friendly activities and considerations:
- Mukuvisi Woodlands: Wildlife viewing and open spaces
- Tamba Tamba: Indoor play center
- Wild Is Life: Animal sanctuary with close encounters
- Queen Elizabeth Botanical Gardens: Space to run around
- Lion & Cheetah Park: Day trip with wildlife
- Family-friendly accommodations: Bronte Hotel, Willow Lodge
- Shopping malls have play areas and child-friendly restaurants
- Consider private drivers for easier family movement
Budget Travelers
Maximizing experiences while minimizing costs:
- Accommodation: Small World Backpackers, AirBnB options
- Transportation: Shared airport shuttles, walking in safer areas
- Meals: Food courts at Avondale, local eateries like Gava’s
- Activities: Free Harare Gardens, affordable National Gallery
- Shopping: Mbare Market for souvenirs (with local guide)
- Entertainment: Free cultural events at Book Café
- City walking tours with local guides
- Many attractions have modest entrance fees
Culture Seekers
Deeper engagement with Harare’s cultural scene:
- Gallery Delta: Contemporary Zimbabwean art
- First Floor Gallery: Emerging artists
- Reps Theatre: Regular drama productions
- Book Café: Literature events and discussions
- National Ballet: Performances throughout the year
- Harare City Library: Historical archives
- Shona sculpture workshops in Greendale
- Township tours for authentic cultural immersion