Where to Stay in Harare
Zimbabwe
|Pop. 1.5M
|4 neighborhoods covered
Harare at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Harare
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Carry small denominations of Zimbabwean Dollars (ZWL) for most transactions, as larger notes can be hard to get change for. Many vendors prefer mobile money (EcoCash).
Getting Around
Be clear about the fare with taxi drivers before starting your journey, especially with informal taxis. Confirm the currency (ZWL or USD) and agree on the price.
Watch Out For
Fake parking attendants demanding payment.
Solo Female Travel
Exercise heightened awareness. While many areas are safe during the day, it's advisable to avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated or poorly lit areas. Stick to reputable taxis or rideshares.
Hidden Gems in Harare
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Tsanga Lodge
A peaceful sanctuary just outside the city, offering tranquil walks through indigenous forests and a chance to spot diverse birdlife. It's a perfect escape for nature lovers seeking serenity.
The Food Court at Avondale
This bustling spot is where locals go for authentic Zimbabwean street food, from flavorful sadza to grilled meats. It's a vibrant, down-to-earth culinary experience.
National Gallery of Zimbabwe
While it might seem like a typical gallery, it houses an impressive collection of Zimbabwean art, including traditional and contemporary pieces that tell the story of the nation's creative spirit. Many tourists overlook this gem.
Domboshawa Caves
Explore fascinating rock formations and ancient cave paintings at this natural wonder. It offers a glimpse into the region's history and a bit of an adventure for those willing to venture out.
Book Cafe
More than just a cafe, this is a cultural hub hosting live music, poetry readings, and art exhibitions. It's a great place to soak in the local arts scene and enjoy a relaxed evening.
Epworth Balancing Rocks
FREEWitness a unique geological phenomenon where massive boulders are precariously balanced on smaller ones. It's a visually striking and memorable spot, often visited by locals for its natural beauty.
What It Costs in Harare
Daily budget per person in ZWL
๐กPremium destination pricing
ZWL 700/day
ZWL 1500/day
ZWL 3000/day
Where to Stay in Harare
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Avondale Shopping Centre10 min
- Avondale Racecourse20 min
Pros
- +Abundant restaurants and bars
- +Good access to public transport
- +Vibrant local atmosphere
Cons
- -Can be noisy at night
- -Some areas have inconsistent infrastructure
Top stays in Avondale
Bronte Hotel
$$A well-established hotel with lush gardens and a relaxed atmosphere.
The Victoria 22
$$$A stylish boutique guesthouse offering personalized service and elegant rooms.
Arundel Place
$$Offers self-catering apartments, ideal for longer stays or families.
Best for
Walk to
- Belgravia Sports Club15 min
- Westgate Shopping Centre25 min
Pros
- +Quiet and secure environment
- +Larger properties and green spaces
- +Close to major shopping centers
Cons
- -Limited public transport within the neighborhood
- -Fewer dining and entertainment options directly within the area
Top stays in Belgravia
Meikles Hotel
$$$Iconic luxury hotel in the city center, offering fine dining and panoramic views.
Honeymoon Hideaways
$$$Exclusive and intimate accommodation perfect for romantic getaways.
The Borrowdale Country Lodge
$$$A luxurious resort experience with extensive grounds, golf, and spa facilities.
Best for
Walk to
- Sam Levy's Village20 min
- The Borrowdale Brooke Golf Club30 min
Pros
- +Peaceful and green environment
- +Good for longer stays with house rentals
- +Close to international schools and amenities
Cons
- -Relies heavily on private transport
- -Dining and nightlife options are sparse within the immediate area
Top stays in Mount Pleasant
The Churchill Guest House
$$A charming guesthouse offering a homely atmosphere and attentive service.
Glen Lodge
$$Comfortable accommodation with good facilities, often used by business travelers.
The Courtyard House
$$Provides serviced apartments in a secure setting, suitable for families or longer stays.
Best for
Walk to
- National Gallery of Zimbabwe5 min
- Africa Unity Square5 min
- Old Hararians Sports Club10 min
Pros
- +Central location with all amenities
- +Good transport links
- +Access to museums and historical sites
Cons
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Less green space compared to suburbs
- -Safety concerns can be higher, especially at night
Top stays in City Centre
Rainbow Towers Hotel
$$A landmark hotel offering modern amenities and city views, centrally located.
The Jameson Hotel
$$A comfortable and convenient option in the heart of the city, known for its business facilities.
New Ambassador Hotel
$A historic hotel offering a budget-friendly stay with a central location.
The N1 Hotel Harare
$A no-frills, clean, and affordable option for budget travelers.
Areas to be cautious
- Some peripheral areas of the CBD after dark: These areas can become deserted and present increased risks of petty crime and mugging.
- Areas with poor lighting or unmaintained infrastructure: These can be found in various parts of the city and pose risks of accidents and increased vulnerability to crime.
Insider tip: Carry small denominations of Zimbabwean Dollars (ZWL) for most transactions, as larger notes can be hard to get change for. Many vendors prefer mobile money (EcoCash).
Safety in Harare
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise heightened awareness. While many areas are safe during the day, it's advisable to avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated or poorly lit areas. Stick to reputable taxis or rideshares.
At Night
Nighttime safety requires significant caution. Stick to well-lit, busy areas, especially in the City Centre. Avoid deserted streets and be wary of your surroundings.
Emergency
999
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Fake parking attendants demanding payment.
- 2Overcharging by informal taxi drivers.
- 3Distraction theft, where an accomplice distracts you while another steals your belongings.
Getting Around Harare
Transport, connectivity, and costs
โ๏ธ
Airport to City
Taxis are the most convenient option, costing approximately 2000-3000 ZWL for the 30-45 minute journey to the city center. Pre-booking is advised.
๐ซ
Day Pass
Not applicable as there isn't a unified public transport pass system.
Single: Minibus rides can range from 50-200 ZWL depending on distance. Taxi rides within the city start from 300 ZWL.
๐ถ
Walkability
Car NeededUber
๐ถ
WiFi
Good15-25 Mbps
Public Transport
A combination of taxis (private and informal), and 'mushikashika' (minibuses) for local travel. For longer distances between suburbs, taxis are generally necessary.
Ride-share
Uber and Yego are available and generally reliable, with typical rides within the city costing 300-800 ZWL.
Transport Tip
Be clear about the fare with taxi drivers before starting your journey, especially with informal taxis. Confirm the currency (ZWL or USD) and agree on the price.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Some hotels, cafes, and shopping centers offer free Wi-Fi, though often with time limits or requiring a purchase.
Coworking
Several options exist, including The Innovation Hub (approx. 500-1000 ZWL/day) and various serviced offices offering daily passes.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: May, Jun, Jul
Hotels & Accommodation in Harare
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Who Is Harare Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-Timers
Provides central access to key attractions, transport links, and a variety of accommodation options to get a feel for the city.
Families
Offers spacious, quiet, and green surroundings with good access to schools and amenities, making it a comfortable base.
Foodies
Boasts a concentration of diverse restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a vibrant culinary scene.
Luxury Travelers
This affluent suburb provides a serene environment with high-end accommodation and proximity to exclusive clubs and shopping.
Budget Backpackers
Offers the most affordable accommodation and easy access to local transport and cheaper eateries.
Digital Nomads
Benefits from good Wi-Fi availability, coworking spaces, and central access to amenities and transport.
About Harare
Harare ( hษ-RAR-ay), formerly known as Salisbury, is the capital and largest city of Zimbabwe. The city proper has an area of 982.3 km2 (379.3 sq mi), a population of 1,849,600 as of the 2022 census, and an estimated 2,487,209 people in its metropolitan province. The city is situated in north-eastern Zimbabwe in the country's Mashonaland region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Harare
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Harare Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel