Harare: The Most Frequently Asked Questions Answered

Harare is the vibrant capital city of Zimbabwe. It is the largest city in the country, with a population of approximately 2.8 million people. The city has a rich cultural and historical background that every traveler should experience at least once in a lifetime. If you plan on visiting Harare or just interested in learning more about the city, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Harare to help you better understand this fascinating city.

What is the best time to visit Harare?

Harare experiences a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, temperatures are cooler and rainfall is minimal, which makes it an ideal time to explore the city’s many outdoor attractions. However, if you’re on a budget, it might be best to visit during the rainy season, which runs from November to April, as prices are usually lower during this period.

What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Harare?

Harare has plenty of exciting places to visit, but some of the best-known tourist attractions include:

• The National Gallery of Zimbabwe, which is the country’s leading art museum that hosts an array of Zimbabwean and African contemporary art.
• The Mbare Market, a bustling open-air market where one can shop for African crafts, fresh produce, and other items at reasonable prices.
• The Harare Gardens, a beautifully landscaped public park with walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
• The Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences, which showcases the country’s fascinating human history through an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits.
• The Kushie Hot Springs, located just outside Harare, is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural hot spring water, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Is Harare safe for tourists?

Like any other city in the world, Harare is not entirely crime-free. However, the city is generally safe for tourists, and incidents of violent crimes are pretty rare. Nevertheless, visitors should always be vigilant and take the necessary precautions when traveling, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables securely stored.

What is the currency used in Harare?

The official currency of Zimbabwe is the Zimbabwean dollar (ZWD). However, other foreign currencies such as the US dollar, the Euro, and the South African Rand are also accepted in most places. It’s better to have cash available since not all shops accept credit cards.

What is the culture of Harare like?

The people of Harare have a rich cultural heritage that is showcased through music, dance, and art. Most people speak English as a second language, with Shona and Ndebele being the most commonly spoken Zimbabwean languages. Visitors to the city will experience a friendly and welcoming culture, with a strong sense of community and family values.

What is the cuisine in Harare like?

The cuisine in Harare is varied and delicious. Visitors can expect to find a mix of traditional Zimbabwean dishes, alongside Western cuisine. Some of the must-try foods include sadza, a maize meal that is usually served with a meaty stew, roasted meats, and vegetarian dishes such as beans and vegetables. Visitors can also indulge in some of the exciting street food and fast-food outlets dotted around the city.

What is the transportation system like in Harare?

Harare has a relatively good public transportation system with buses, taxis, and trains being the primary modes of transport. However, the public transport system can be a little confusing for visitors as the routes are often not well marked. Taxis are plentiful and relatively affordable, so this might be the best option for visitors who prefer a little more convenience.

Conclusion

Harare is a fantastic travel destination that has so much to offer visitors, from amazing natural scenery to a vibrant culture and rich history. It’s essential to plan your trip and do some research to ensure that you make the most of your time in the city. Hopefully, this FAQ guide about Harare has answered some of the frequently asked questions and given you a better idea of what to expect when visiting this incredible city.

Insider’s Guide to Harare: Beyond the FAQs

Harare, the bustling capital of Zimbabwe, is a city that offers a unique combination of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Beyond the popular tourist spots is a hidden world brimming with lesser-known attractions, lively dining spots, and local experiences that are worth exploring. In this insider’s guide, we will take you on a journey to discover the best of Harare, from its hidden gems to off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

While the National Gallery of Zimbabwe and the Botanical Gardens may be the city’s most well-known attractions, Harare has a wealth of other cultural and natural landmarks that remain largely unexplored by tourists. To delve deeper, consider visiting the Mukuvisi Woodlands, a nature reserve ideal for bird watching and game sighting, or the Mbare Market, a bustling market where you can find local handcrafted items, food, and spices. The Harare Gardens is another hidden gem. This park is perfect for relaxation, with its well-manicured lawns, fishponds, and water fountains. It is also an excellent spot to catch local musicians and artists performing.

Delicious Dining Spots: Exploring Local Cuisine

Harareans are passionate about their food, and the cuisine reflects the city’s diverse heritage and cultural influences. For a truly authentic experience, try the Zimbabwean dish of sadza, also known as pap, and accompanied by various relishes such as meats, beans, and vegetables. Plenty of restaurants in the city serve sadza, but Mama’s Deli Stand in the Avondale shopping center is a popular spot with locals and serves it with traditional beef stew. For some Indian-inspired snacks, head over to Samosas in Belvedere. If you are looking for an upscale experience, Sabai Thai serves some of the city’s best curries alongside splendid outdoor seating.

Cultural Experiences: Tradition, Festivals, and Customs

The culture of Harare is rich and diverse, with many traditional festivals and customs still celebrated today. One of the most popular cultural events is the Harare International Festival of the Arts, which takes place in May each year and features musicians, dancers, and artists from around the world. The music scene here is vibrant, and you can often find live music events taking place around the city. The Shona culture has a strong representation in Harare’s art scene. You can find artwork such as stone sculptures and paintings at the Shona Sculpture Gallery in Marlborough. When it comes to customs, visit the National Heroes’ Acre, a shrine dedicated to Zimbabwean national heroes and those who sacrificed their lives in the liberation struggle.

Local History: Tales of the past

Harare has a fascinating history that dates back to the colonial era, and there are plenty of captivating stories to explore. One such tale is that of the Chiremba Balancing Rocks, which are thought to have been used as a place of worship by ancient indigenous people. Another is that of the Domboshava Caves, a group of caves located 30km north of Harare that has long been a site of worship for the local people.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions: Unique experiences

If you’re looking for something truly unique, why not try a walking tour with a difference? The Harare Street Art Tour is a tour that takes visitors on an exciting graffiti adventure across the city. Alternatively, take a trip to the Mbizi Game Park, located just outside the city, and enjoy an afternoon of game viewing, guided bird walks, or breakfast with the rhinos. For a more immersive experience, explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods such as Chitungwiza, Mabelreign, and Cranborne. Here, you can mingle with the locals and discover hidden gems that only Harareans know about.

In conclusion, Harare is a city that is full of surprises with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you are a first time or repeat visitor, there is always something new to explore. Use this insider’s guide to experience the city’s culture, history, and culinary delights, and to gain a deeper understanding of what makes Harare such a fascinating destination.