Seasoned travellers know capital cities are usually not ideal for tourists as they offer little to no tourism activities. However, let’s say your visit takes you to a capital city and you have time to spare, what do you do? Do you
- stay up in your room till you go back or
- Try and explore the city. Or
- Try and find some fun activities in the city.
If you are like me, you will probably try a and b why, because chances and opportunities only come once. Harare boasts beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Harare Gardens and the Mukuvisi Woodlands, where visitors can relax and enjoy nature. Additionally, there are many cultural and historic places around Harare one can visit. Let’s say you find yourself in beautiful Zimbabwe’s capital city Harare, here is a guide on activities you might do to explore the city’s rich culture, history and magnificent views:
- National Gallery of Zimbabwe. Situated in the heart of the CBD, heritage, culture, history and art lovers would thoroughly enjoy visiting the National Art Gallery
- Mbare Musika market, This is the best way to experience Harare as it is, it offers countless opportunities to experience the local way of life.
- Harare Gardens. A magnificent park right in the heart of the city, a walking distance from many hotels and lodges.
- Mukuvisi Woodlands. A safari Park a few minutes away from the CBD, in case you are a safari junkie like me, you will be able to enjoy a mini Safari with the City skyline behind your back.
- For those interested in history, a visit to the National Heroes Acre will be a good treat.
- Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences can provide insight into the country’s past.
- Chapungu Sculpture Park: This outdoor art gallery features a stunning collection of stone sculptures created by local artists. Visitors can stroll through the park and admire the unique and intricate works of art.
- Harare Kopje: This iconic hill in the heart of the city offers panoramic views of Harare and is a great spot for a leisurely hike or picnic. It also holds historical significance as the site of the first settlement in Harare.
- Avondale Flea Market: This bustling market is a great place to shop for local crafts, artwork, clothing, and souvenirs. Visitors can browse through the stalls and interact with local vendors.
- Borrowdale Racecourse: If you’re interested in horse racing, the Borrowdale Racecourse is a popular spot to watch thrilling races and enjoy a day out with friends or family.
- Chiremba Balancing Rocks: Located just outside of Harare, these natural rock formations are a must-see attraction. The rocks are known for their unique balancing formations and are a popular spot for photography.
- Harare Railway Station: History buffs may appreciate a visit to the Harare Railway Station, a historic building that showcases the city’s colonial past. The station’s architecture and design are worth exploring, and it serves as a hub for train travel in Zimbabwe.
- Eastgate Centre: Shopaholics will enjoy a visit to the Eastgate Centre, a modern shopping mall known for its innovative architecture and sustainable design. The mall offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options for visitors to enjoy.
- Domboshawa Rock Paintings: Located just outside of Harare, the Domboshawa Rock Paintings are ancient rock art sites that provide insight into Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the rock formations and admire the intricate paintings created by the early inhabitants of the region.
- Mereki Food Stop – Situated in Warren Park about 8 km from the CBD towards the Harare Bulawayo Highway, this popular, place showcases the way the majority of Zimbabweans live and enjoy life.
- Lake Chivero. In case you want to do a few water activities and possibly see a few birds and animals, visit what locals simply refer to as the lake.
- Semi Levy’s Village – A luxurious shopping centre designed to mimic a British Village, Samy Levy’s Village will show you a side of Luxury Harare.
And no trip to Harare would be complete without sampling the delicious local cuisine, such as sadza and stew popularly known as Highfiridzi, at one of the city’s many restaurants.