DISTANCE FROM HARARE AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTRE

The Robert Gabriel Mugabe International is situated at a distance of about 14 kilometres from the heart of the city and is the only airport that serves the population of Harare. Depending on the traffic conditions and state of the roads, it can be reached in about 30-30 minutes. You might travel on first class flights class or economy flights, you will be definitively be assured of easily traveling from the airport to your chosen location in the city, as there is really good connectivity. 

HARARE AIRPORT TRANSPORT

The Harare International Airport is well-connected to the main city. Transportation is available at all hours. As a result, this destination is popular with female and solo travellers. Depending on your budget or desired convenience level you can find many different means to travel. Some of the most popular ones are:-

Taxis: Probably the most popular means for tourists to go from the airport to the city. It will take you roughly 25-40 minutes to reach the city.

Ride Sharing Apps: You can also make use of ride-sharing Apps like Handei and Toda. A popular and economical option that you can make use of to go to the destination of your choice.

Minibuses: There are also many minibusses called “Kombis” which can be utilized for commuting. Though inexpensive and economical, the only flipside is that their schedules can be erratic and they can become crowded at times.

FLYING TIME FROM MANCHESTER TO HARARE

Due to the large distance between these cities, no airlines operate direct flights between Manchester to Harare. The exact time required to travel between your chosen destinations is influenced by a variety of factors like air traffic, weather conditions, and the specific route chosen. On average, it takes roughly 17-25 hours to go between these two cities. Some of the common stopovers (averaging between 2-3) between these two destinations are:-

London, Heathrow

Doha, Qatar

Lusaka, Zambia

Adis Ababa, Ethiopia

Nairobi, Kenya

If you wish to travel in a carefree manner, then it is a good idea to book tickets on business class flights or premium economy flights. The main benefit of booking tickets on them is that any special requirement which you might be having will be addressed. Another benefit is that your luggage will be correctly transported to your chosen destination during transit, thus saving you a great deal of worry.

ATTRACTIONS IN HARARE

Zimbabwe’s capital Harare is a vibrant town that is full of attractions for tourists to explore. This city will not disappoint you, whether you are a collector of art, a shopper, or a foodie. Some of the notable places for tourists to visit are:-

Haka Game Park: Visiting the Haka Game Park is the best option if you want to see the local natural flora and animals in and around Harare. Situated on the outskirts of the city, you will undoubtedly be able to witness a range of exotic African animals, like giraffes, lions, and rhinoceroses.

The Sculpture Park in Chapungu: Stone carvings from Zimbabwe are well-known worldwide. The artwork of this nation''s artists is on display at this outdoor gallery. This is the spot to go if you want to purchase souvenirs to bring back memories of your enjoyable time spent exploring Africa.

Square of African Unity: This plaza, which was constructed in 1890, has played a significant role in Harare''s history as a gathering place for its people. After independence from Britain in 1980, the square also previously known as Cecil Square was given its current name. The main motive behind renaming was to commemorate the unity of Africans in to fight against colonialism as well as the search for unity among all African peoples. This area, which is well-known for its enormous fountain, is a great place to unwind and spend the day.

Woodlands of Mukuvisi: Zimbabwe''s Mukuvisi Woodlands is a national treasure, located along Hillside Road, 7km from the city centre of Harare. It provides one of the few substantial public green spaces left in Harare. Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, the woods serve as a vital educational resource for Zimbabweans of all ages, emphasizing the value of sustainable development and protecting natural resources for coming generations. In addition to admiring the breathtakingly gorgeous miomob woods of the nation, you will get to view wild animals in their natural habitat.

Chiremba Balancing Rocks: These are among the most famous of the many balancing rocks that can be found in and around Harare. Any visitor who comes to Harare must visit this prominent landmark. Indeed, the way rocks stacked on top of one another creates a stunning work of natural artwork. Scientists are still clueless about how the structure came into being. After visiting it you will surely be in awe of nature’s creative power.

Thanks to its wide open spaces and ample number of outdoor amenities, sightseeing here is truly an enjoyable experience. No trip to the southern part of the African continent can be considered complete without paying a visit to Harare.

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SHOPPING IN HARARE

With stores offering a diverse range of products ranging from traditional crafts to modern international brands, shopping in Harare is a delightful experience. The retail industry here is very much alive and the best places to buy merchandise in this amazing city are:-

City Centre Shops: Located in the heart of Harare, in these shops, you will be able to purchase a wide array of products ranging from clothing of the latest fashion to cutting-edge electronics. Going exploring here is a great way to get a feel of the local shopping scene.

Crafts Markets: Scattered throughout the city are various craft markets where you will be able to purchase a bewildering array of authentic artwork, sculptures, textiles, and beadwork. Get glimpses into Zimbabwe’s rich artistic heritage and purchase mementos to remind you of the good times spent.

Arundel Village: Situated in the Mount Pleasant Suburb, this shopping complex is home to a diverse selection of stores such as fashion boutiques, home décor shops, and restaurants. A must-visit for anybody looking for a more relaxed and upscale shopping experience. Only a 10-minute drive or taxi from Harare’s Central Business District (CBD), the town is a definite location to get away from the bustle of downtown. The festive season during Christmas and New Year’s Eve are surely the best times to come here. 

Westgate Shopping Center: Located in the western suburbs of Harare, in this spacious mall is the largest shopping centre in Zimbabwe. Located close to the city centre, you be able to explore a diverse mix of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities. Truly an awesome one-stop destination for all searching for a diverse variety of goods in a small space.

Longcheng Plaza: Situated about ten minutes away by car from the city centre, Longcheng Plaza is the newest shopping centre in Harare. It exudes a sense of cleanliness and modernity, yet its architecture and aesthetics also show an oriental influence. The plaza also has several boutiques and fashion stores such as So Chic by Moe, Raffies, and Lavish Boutique. The main attraction at the centre is the outdoor Amusement Park, the perfect place to spend an afternoon with the whole family. 

Additionally, Harare is an absolute paradise for all well-versed in the art of bargaining. The streets are bustling with energy and you will be able to amazing discounts from the shopkeepers here. Indeed, there is no way better to know about this city than going shopping in its streets. You will enjoy every moment of the experience.

NIGHTLIFE IN HARARE

Harare has various options for people to enjoy their nightlife. From clubs playing laid-back jazz music to the latest international tracks, the city offers a wide range of locales where night owls can go and have a merry time. Read on below to learn about the places you visit after dark:-

The Book Café: The centre of the capital''s cultural life is the Book Cafe. It is the centre of the arts in Harare, where people from all cultural backgrounds coexist amicably and freely. Six nights a week, there is live music, poetry, comedy, conversations, seminars, and book releases. Hosting a wide range of events, this is a famous spot where members of the artistic and intellectual community go and meet up. A great place if you wish to go and enjoy live music poetry readings and art exhibitions. If you have a passion for live music, this is the place to hang out in Harare.

New Ambassador Hotel: Popular for jazz nights and the dance floor, this hotel is a classic Harare institution. Being in the heart of the city makes its location perfect, for exploring the city’s attractions. Hosting numerous live music performances this spot is popular with both Harare residents and visitors for dancing and socializing.

The Olive and Oil Lounge: A trendy lounge and nightclub situated in the Newlands suburb, this is a great place to dance the night away. This outlet''s unique selling proposition is that they will accommodate any specific requests you may have, such as gluten-free or vegetarian dishes. You get an unbeatable combination of DJ music, and cocktail as well as a chic atmosphere with a classy crowd.

Jungle Restaurant and Nightclub: Situated in the Avondale suburb, this particular venue offers all its patrons a lovely combination of fine dining as well as riveting nightlife. You have a large variety of options at your disposal here – can enjoy delicious, lip-smacking food or enjoy a whole night of dancing.

Bar Rouge: A place where flavours and aesthetics beautifully harmonize to give you a beautiful experience of pleasing the senses. With a wide selection of drinks, live music, and a rooftop terrace providing beautiful panoramic views of the city, you will surely be able to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience.

Featuring a mix of music genres from contemporary hits to traditional Afrobeat sounds, Harare is a paradise for party animals. You will be spoilt for choice after seeing the sheer variety of venues where you can go and party. Explore its streets, engage with the people there, and discover for yourself what this incredible city and modern, new-age Africa have to offer.

WHERE TO GET FOREX CONVERTED IN HARARE

Have come to Harare? Then it becomes imperative that you carry along with you some copies of the local currency. While you will have little or no difficulty in communicating with the locals, but only the Zimbabwean dollar is accepted as the local tender in and around the city.

Banks: Forex facilities, where you may exchange your foreign cash, are available in several locations in Harare. Large commercial banks with operations in the city, like Barclays Bank Zimbabwe, CBZ Bank, and Standard Chartered Bank, have specialized counters to offer foreign exchange services. Major Banks in Harare mainly charge about 1% to 3% of the total amount that is converted.

Hotels: Hotels where tourists put up also offer currency exchange services. The only flipside is that they might charge a high commission and you might need to pay a higher amount upfront.

Currency Exchange Venues: Also you can visit the locations written below to change the British Pound into Zimbabwean Dollar.

GREAT EATING PLACES IN HARARE

No trip to a new destination can be considered complete if you haven’t tasted the local cuisine. All the more true of the Zimbabwean capital Harare, which contains a thriving restaurant and hospitality industry. Written below is a small list of restaurants that you can visit while visiting the city:-

Victoria 22 Restaurant: A great spot for having a relaxing meal in a calm and tranquil environment. Choose from a menu serving an eclectic mix of international and African cuisine. This is a great place to eat, away from the hustle and bustle of Harare. The menu''s highlights include a wide variety of meals, from various African masterpieces to delectable with French influences. Located in a former colonial building, this location is well-liked by both Harare locals and tourists from other countries. The outlet is unquestionably among the greatest places to go if you want to enjoy continental food while you''re in Harare.

Pavilions Restaurant: A lovely spot for afternoon and evening dining. You will be able to choose from a menu containing a delectable blend of international and local flavours. This restaurant, which offers a view of the African Unity Square''s bright gardens, is a must-visit for anybody interested in trying French food with an African touch.

The La Fontaine Grill Room in Meikles Hotel: The welcoming ambiance and impeccable service provided make this restaurant the ideal choice for a romantic evening with your spouse/lover. This restaurant truly is the epitome of elegance. This restaurant, which offers a view of the African Unity Square''s bright gardens, is a must-visit for anybody interested in trying French food with an African touch. This restaurant is most recognized for its steak and fish dishes. The ideal location in the city for commemorating special events like birthdays and anniversaries, by far.

The Bistro at Borrowdale Village: The warm ambiance and attentive service provided to customers make the restaurant a hit with expatriates coming to Harare. Famous for its afternoon tea as well as evening dining, tradition and modernity are seamlessly combined here. An iconic Harare restaurant serving a range of menus ranging from cocktails and canapes to diverse meal options for seated dinners. Delicious food and exceptional service make The Bistro a must-try place to eat out in Harare.

NewsCafe: Offering an atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying a relaxing evening after a tiring week of work, this outlet is ideal for socializing and entertainment. A favourite among both locals and expats, it offers a dynamic atmosphere filled with drinks, cocktails, and dishes for casual dining.

The above-mentioned restaurants are the perfect place for you to go and fulfill your culinary desires. Savor the delicacies, be mesmerized by the skill of local chefs, and pamper the gastronome in you in this amazing city.

HOTELS STAY IN HARARE

Harare, Zimbabwe''''s economic hub is the location of several businesses and industries. As a result, the city is now a sought-after location for businesspeople, public administrators, and traders from all over the world. Over the years, the country has seen a surge in tourist traffic, which has also led to explosive growth in the hotel industry. You will be able to find lodging that fits your budget. The following is a list of the most popular hotels in this city:-

Meikles Hotel (5 Star)

Address: Corner Third Street & J Moyo Ave P O Box 594, Harare Zimbabwe

Since its opening in 1915, this hotel has regularly been rated as one of the best places where discerning travelers like yourself can come and stay. Located in the Central Business District of Harare, overlooking the Africa Unity Square Gardens this hotel is definitely where visitors coming to Harare for official purposes should plan to put up. 

Rainbow Towers Hotel And Conference Centre (5 Star)

Address: Pennefather Avenue, Harare Zimbabwe

This is the hotel of choice for all dignitaries who might be coming to Harare for business and social events. Also known as Sheraton Hotel, this hotel has the distinction of regularly hosting many VIP''''s like industrialists and heads of state. You will surely find the stay at this hotel pleasant and the ambiance welcoming.

Imba Matombo (5 Star)

Address: 3 Albert Glen Close, Harare Zimbabwe

With its rustic, colonial theme and homely setting it is perfect for somebody traveling with family. Surely the place of choice for somebody looking to have an unforgettable experience during a casual stay, events, and conferences. Savor the kind welcome, delicious food, and peaceful surroundings of Africa in this award-winning lodge.

Kia Ora Lodge (4 Star)

Address: 60 Knightsbridge Road Highlands, Harare ZW Zimbabwe

Your search for a place to stay which is inviting and provides a variety of facilities is surely over. Nestled along a nursery, this hotel provides a peaceful environment and a true "Home Away from Home" experience. Probably the best thing about this hotel is that 

Willow Lodge (4 Star)

Address: 3 Willowmead Lane Colne Valley, Harare Zimbabwe

All visitors have spoken highly about the energetic and motivated staff who went out of their way to make their stay memorable. A place where you can decide to put up if you are on the lookout for a perfect combination of value, location, and service. Thanks to the intelligent as well as diligent efforts of the staff, the hotel has obtained top ratings on numerous plattforms covering the latest developments in the industry.

Armadale Boutique Lodge (4 Star)

Address: 9 Armadale Road Borrowdale, Harare Mashonaland Zimbabwe

The proximity to popular tourist destinations like the National Gallery of Zimbabwe and extra amenities like valet parking for those who own cars are the main advantages of lodging here. Many people voted it as one of the finest places to stay because of the extra amenities, like complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. A hotel where you can come back with a relaxed frame of mind after a tiring day spent sightseeing. 

Cresta Lodge Harare (3 Star)

Address: Cnr Samora Machel Avenue East Robert Mugabe Road, Harare Zimbabwe

You will have an amazing time in this hotel which provides you with comfort in a serene and picturesque setting. The Lodge offers first-rate amenities and the genuine warmth of African hospitality, that too at really reasonable costs. Definitely it is the place where somebody travelling frugally would like to come and stay in. 

York Lodge (3 Star)

Address: 1 York Avenue Newlands, Harare Zimbabwe

Guests will be getting rooms with expansive verandas facing a verdant garden sanctuary. All of the guest rooms and common areas have the conveniences of a big hotel combined with the privacy, individualization, and attentive service you would anticipate from a family-owned hotel.

Harare is a favourite destination for British tourists due to its extensive business opportunities, rich cultural legacy, and historical ties. Anyone interested in witnessing a contemporary version of Africa should make the trip. Because it was a former British colony, English is spoken by locals and you will have no difficulty with regards to language. The experts on our team at Pack and Fly will surely assist you in getting the best deals on airline as well as hotel booking. You will be able to have a lovely experience in exploring the city.