Harare
Overview
The beating drum and capital city of Zimbabwe, Harare, at 1,483 metres above sea level, is an interesting and welcoming city, blending its traditional African roots alongside rich European influences. With wide, leafy boulevards and a good amount of attractions, the city is a good base and worth a few days of exploration, although with the present economic situation, one cannot help but feel it may be experiencing a steep decline.
Centred around the north and south side of Samora Machel Avenue, the city is good place to explore on foot. To the north side are Harare Gardens, a great escape from the city flurry, a collection of embassy buildings and upmarket shops and restaurants. The southern side, down to Robert Mugabe Road, houses a range of restaurants, markets and the commercial activity. It is also within this area that much of the city’s nightlife is concentrated, serving up locally brewed beer and jumping to grinding African beats.
Other areas of interest include a collection of historical buildings, counting the 1895 Parliament building and the 1933 Town House and gardens. Travelling southwest from the centre, the Kopje towers over the city, offering unsurpassed views across Harare, however be careful if visiting, as reports of crime are frequent.
As the capital, Harare is served by excellent transport links, internationally and across the country. The local airport, 15km south of town, sees departures for Bulawayo, Victoria Falls and into neighbouring countries. From the chaotic Roadport bus terminal, buses leave for destinations in Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique and South Africa. Domestic bus services run from the, equally chaotic, Mbare Musika Bus Terminal in the Mbare district. Trains run infrequently from the Harare Train Station to Bulawayo and Victoria Falls.
As with many African capitals, the chaos may eventually become a little too much to handle. Nevertheless, with a number of national parks and wildlife centres in close proximity you are never too far away from experiencing the captivating charm of Zimbabwe’s natural beauty, flora and fauna.
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Harare
Destination Reviews
Things to do in
Harare
Mukuvisi Woodlands - On the edge of the city centre, the 270-hectare woodland area is a prime spot for picnics, leisurely walks alongside the stream and a paradise for bird enthusiasts. There is also an area designated as a wildlife park, giving the chance to view free walking zebras, giraffes and antelopes.
National Archives of Zimbabwe - Interesting collection of artefacts from colonial times, displaying the history of both Rhodesia and current Zimbabwe, recounting events of former explorers and settlers. Opening times are 8.30am - 4pm, Monday to Friday, & 8.30am - 12pm, Saturday. Located north of the centre at Gun Hill.
National Herbarium & Botanical Gardens - 4km north of the centre in the Alexandra Park suburb, the gardens are a great place to spend the day away from the city bustle. Spread across 58 hectares, the gardens are home to around 500,000 plant species and 900 trees and shrubs, used for research and educational purposes.
National Gallery of Zimbabwe - Located in the Harare Gardens in the heart of town, the gallery is home to collections of Zimbabwean and African paintings, sculptures and carvings as well as regular photographic exhibitions. The outdoor Sculpture Garden was founded in 1957 by a group of European artists. Open daily from 9am - 5pm.
Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences - With its impressive collection of traditional musical instruments, archaeological and ethnographic displays, the museum is a great spot for history buffs. Open daily from 9am - 5pm.
Lake Chivero Recreational Park - Join the hoards of day trippers making their way to this 5500 hectare park, 30km southwest of town. Focused around Lake Chivero, visitors can enjoy fishing, boating walking and horse riding activities. Within the park are Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary, blessed with over 450 bird species, and Chivero Game Park, with zebras, giraffes and white rhinos.
Domboshawa & Negomakurira - Stunning set of caves and rock paintings around 25km north of Harare. Buses make regular trips from both Second Street and the Mbare Musika bus terminal.
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Harare
Activity Reviews
Hotels in
Harare
Budget Hotels Harare
Palm Rock Villa - Great budget option in the city centre. Tel (263) (4) 724550.
Small World Backpackers Lodge - Welcoming hostel north of the centre in the Avondale district. Tel (263) (4) 335176.
The Rocks - South of the centre is a friendly overlander favourite with all the action around a big outdoor bar. Tel (263) (4) 576371.
Midrange Hotels Harare
George Hotel - Good hotel, opposite Avondale Shopping Centre, with spacious rooms and lively bar. Tel (263) (4) 336677.
Holiday Inn - Businesslike hotel located in Harare downtown. Tel (263) (4) 795611.
Luxury Hotels Harare
Crown Plaza Harare - Elegantly, African furnished hotel overlooking Harare Gardens. Tel (263) (4) 704501.
Meikles Hotel - 5 star luxury, with plenty of bars and restaurants, however occasionally snooty service. Tel (263) (4) 707721.
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Harare
Hotel Reviews
Harare
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Harare
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