Where to Stay in Harare
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Quick Answer
Stay in Mount Pleasant
Offers spacious, quiet, and green surroundings with good access to schools and amenities, making it a comfortable base.
See full Harare neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Harare
Family-friendly neighbourhoods that are safe and practical
Mount Pleasant
A spacious, upscale residential suburb popular with expatriates and families seeking tranquility.
Our top picks in Mount Pleasant
A charming guesthouse offering a homely atmosphere and attentive service.
Book NowComfortable accommodation with good facilities, often used by business travelers.
Book NowProvides serviced apartments in a secure setting, suitable for families or longer stays.
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Belgravia
An affluent, tree-lined residential area known for its spacious properties and proximity to amenities.
Our top picks in Belgravia
Avondale
A lively, leafy suburb with a mix of residential charm and commercial buzz.
Our top picks in Avondale
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Families
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1Belgravia | Luxury | An affluent, tree-lined residential area known for its spacious properties and proximity to amenities. | luxuryfamilies | Considered very safe due to its resident... |
Mount Pleasant | Luxury | A spacious, upscale residential suburb popular with expatriates and families seeking tranquility. | familiesdigital nomads | Generally safe due to its residential an... |
Avondale | Mid-range | A lively, leafy suburb with a mix of residential charm and commercial buzz. | foodiesculture | Generally safe during the day with usual... |
City Centre | Budget | The bustling heart of Harare, characterized by high-rise buildings, commercial activity, and a constant flow of people. | first-timersbudget | Exercise significant caution, especially... |
Find family-friendly hotels in Harare
Hotels with family rooms and kid-friendly amenities
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Tips for Families in Harare
Plan Around Nap Times
Schedule big attractions for the morning when energy is highest. Keep afternoons flexible for downtime or playground visits.
Pack Snacks
Having familiar snacks on hand prevents meltdowns. Local supermarkets are cheaper than tourist-area shops for stocking up.
Consider Apartments
An apartment with a kitchen and washing machine can be more practical than a hotel in Harare, especially for stays over 3 nights.
Keep Distances Short
Young children tire quickly. Choose accommodation near your top 2 to 3 must-see attractions rather than in the geographical centre.
Book a family activity in Harare
Kid-friendly tours and fun experiences
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Harare
Belgravia
LuxuryAn affluent, tree-lined residential area known for its spacious properties and proximity to amenities.
- +Quiet and secure environment
- +Larger properties and green spaces
- +Close to major shopping centers
- -Limited public transport within the neighborhood
- -Fewer dining and entertainment options directly within the area
🛡️ Considered very safe due to its residential nature and private security; standard precautions apply at night.
Mount Pleasant
LuxuryA spacious, upscale residential suburb popular with expatriates and families seeking tranquility.
- +Peaceful and green environment
- +Good for longer stays with house rentals
- +Close to international schools and amenities
- -Relies heavily on private transport
- -Dining and nightlife options are sparse within the immediate area
🛡️ Generally safe due to its residential and affluent character; exercise standard vigilance at night.
Avondale
Mid-rangeA lively, leafy suburb with a mix of residential charm and commercial buzz.
- +Abundant restaurants and bars
- +Good access to public transport
- +Vibrant local atmosphere
- -Can be noisy at night
- -Some areas have inconsistent infrastructure
🛡️ Generally safe during the day with usual precautions; at night, stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid walking alone in quieter streets.
City Centre
BudgetThe bustling heart of Harare, characterized by high-rise buildings, commercial activity, and a constant flow of people.
- +Central location with all amenities
- +Good transport links
- +Access to museums and historical sites
- -Can be crowded and noisy
- -Less green space compared to suburbs
- -Safety concerns can be higher, especially at night
🛡️ Exercise significant caution, especially after dark; remain aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. Pickpocketing and petty theft are common.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
ZWL 1500/day
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.
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.
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.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Harare
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Harare Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Harare on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Harare Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Harare with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Harare: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Harare's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Harare: Scenic Excursion
Escape Harare for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Harare Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Harare's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Harare
Families in Harare: FAQ
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