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Harare, Zimbabwe - Things to Do in Harare

Harare

Harare, Zimbabwe - Complete Travel Guide

Harare, Zimbabwe's busy capital city, stands as the economic and cultural heart of the nation, blending modern urban development with rich African heritage. Home to over 1.6 million people, this sprawling metropolis offers visitors a unique glimpse into contemporary Zimbabwe while serving as a gateway to the country's renowned natural attractions. The city has wide tree-lined avenues, colonial architecture, bustling markets, and a thriving arts scene that reflects the resilience and creativity of its people. Despite facing economic challenges over the years, Harare has maintained its position as a significant regional hub, offering travelers an authentic African urban experience. The city's numerous parks and gardens have earned it the nickname 'Sunshine City,' while its proximity to scenic destinations like the Mukuvisi Woodlands and nearby granite formations provides easy access to Zimbabwe's natural beauty. Visitors will find a warm welcome from locals, excellent cuisine featuring both traditional and international flavors, and a growing tourism infrastructure that makes exploration both comfortable and rewarding.

Top Harare

the National Gallery of Zimbabwe

Discover Zimbabwe's rich artistic heritage at this premier cultural institution showcasing contemporary African art, traditional sculptures, and rotating exhibitions. The gallery features works by renowned Zimbabwean artists including stone sculptures that the country is famous for worldwide. Visitors can also browse the gift shop for authentic local artwork and crafts.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $5 USD for adults with discounts for students and groups. Visit Tuesday through Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM, with guided tours available for $10 extra. Best to visit in the morning when lighting is optimal for viewing artwork.

the Mukuvisi Woodlands

Experience Zimbabwe's wildlife just minutes from the city center at this 263-hectare nature reserve featuring indigenous animals like zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species. The reserve offers walking trails, horseback riding, and educational programs about local conservation efforts. It's an excellent introduction to African wildlife for families and nature enthusiasts.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are approximately $15 USD for adults, $8 for children. Horseback riding costs an additional $25 per hour and should be booked 24 hours in advance. Best visited early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active.

Shop at Mbare Musika Market

spend time in local culture at Zimbabwe's largest market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce and traditional crafts to clothing and household goods. This bustling marketplace offers an authentic glimpse into daily Zimbabwean life and excellent opportunities to purchase local products at reasonable prices. The market is particularly famous for its busy atmosphere and friendly traders.

Booking Tip: Free to enter but bring small denomination USD notes for purchases. Best visited with a local guide for $20-30 per day for safety and cultural insights. Go early morning (8-10 AM) for the freshest produce and most active atmosphere.

Domboshava Rock Paintings

Journey to these ancient San rock art sites located about 30 kilometers from Harare, featuring prehistoric paintings that are thousands of years old. The granite formations provide impressive views of the surrounding countryside while offering insights into Zimbabwe's earliest inhabitants. The site combines history, archaeology, and natural beauty in one memorable experience.

Booking Tip: Entry costs $10 USD per person with guided tours available for an additional $15. Transportation from Harare costs $40-60 for a private vehicle or join group tours for $25 per person. Best visited during dry season (April-October) when paths are more accessible.

Local Cuisine and Nightlife

Explore Harare's diverse dining scene featuring traditional Zimbabwean dishes like sadza, nyama, and madora alongside international cuisine in the city's restaurants and bars. The Avondale and Borrowdale areas offer upscale dining experiences, while local beer gardens provide authentic cultural experiences. Evening entertainment includes live music venues showcasing local talent and traditional performances.

Booking Tip: Budget $15-25 USD for mid-range restaurant meals, $5-10 for local eateries. Many restaurants accept USD cash only, so come prepared. Book dinner reservations at popular spots, especially on weekends. Nightlife venues typically charge $5-15 entry fees.

Getting There

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, located 15 kilometers southeast of the city center, serves as the main gateway to Harare with connections to major African cities, Dubai, and London. Several airlines including Air Zimbabwe, South African Airways, and Emirates operate regular flights to and from the airport. Overland travelers can reach Harare via well-maintained highways from South Africa (about 8 hours from Johannesburg), Botswana, and Zambia, though border crossings may involve wait times and visa requirements for some nationalities.

Getting Around

Harare offers various transportation options including registered taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars for those comfortable driving on the left side of the road. The Emergency Taxi Association (ETA) provides reliable metered taxis, while app-based services like Hwindi and Vaya offer convenient alternatives. Public transportation includes commuter omnibuses and the more comfortable luxury buses, though visitors often prefer private transport for safety and convenience. Walking is pleasant in the city center and upscale suburbs during daylight hours, with many attractions within reasonable distances of each other.

Where to Stay

City Center
Avondale
Borrowdale
Mount Pleasant
Newlands
Highlands

Food & Dining

Harare's culinary scene offers everything from traditional Zimbabwean cuisine to international dining experiences, with the city's restaurants accepting both USD and local currency. Local specialties include sadza (cornmeal staple), grilled meats, and seasonal delicacies like mopane worms, while upscale establishments in Borrowdale and Avondale serve excellent steaks, seafood, and fusion cuisine. Street food vendors and local markets provide affordable authentic meals, and the city's growing café culture offers excellent coffee and light meals. Many restaurants feature outdoor seating taking advantage of the pleasant climate, and several establishments showcase live music and cultural performances alongside their dining offerings.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Zimbabwe

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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The Lookout Cafe - Wild Horizons

4.6 /5
(2048 reviews) 2
bar cafe store

Dusty Road Township Experience

4.6 /5
(313 reviews) 2

KwaTerry The traditional restaurant

4.6 /5
(297 reviews)

Baines Restaurant

4.8 /5
(261 reviews)
bar cafe

MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant

4.6 /5
(252 reviews)

Khaya Nyama Wombles

4.7 /5
(210 reviews)

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Harare is during the dry season from April to October, when temperatures are mild, rainfall is minimal, and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. May through August offers the coolest weather with daytime temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for sightseeing and wildlife viewing. September and October see warmer temperatures but remain dry, while November through March brings the rainy season with hot, humid conditions and afternoon thunderstorms that can disrupt outdoor plans, though this period also brings lush green landscapes and fewer tourists.

Insider Tips

Always carry US dollars in small denominations as many businesses prefer cash payments and ATMs can be unreliable
Negotiate prices at markets and with informal taxi drivers, but use registered tour operators for day trips outside the city
Respect local photography restrictions, especially around government buildings, and always ask permission before photographing people

Activities in Harare