Harare

Harare is the capital and largest city of Zimbabwe, perched on a plateau at approximately 1,480 meters altitude. Founded in 1890 by pioneers of the British South Africa Company, it now concentrates political institutions, contemporary African art galleries, vibrant markets and a culinary scene undergoing renewal. It is the natural starting point for exploring the country, with a transport network connecting major reserves and historic sites.

Quick practical information

• Altitude: approximately 1,480 m — nights can be cool even in austral summer.
• Currency: Zimbabwean dollar (ZiG since 2024); US dollars remain widely accepted.
• Language: English (official), Shona and Ndebele widely spoken.
• Dress code: casual in the city; cover shoulders and knees in places of worship.
• Recommended duration: 2 to 3 days to explore the center, markets and galleries.
• Accessibility: limited in historic neighborhoods and markets; major hotels are better equipped.

What to see

The city center blends 1930s colonial architecture with modern buildings. Harare Gardens, the central urban park, offers a green space appreciated by locals. The National Gallery of Zimbabwe showcases a permanent collection of Shona sculpture and contemporary African painting. The Mbare Musika market is the country's largest informal market: fruits, vegetables, crafts and fabrics coexist in constant vibrant activity.

History and context

Founded on September 12, 1890 as Fort Salisbury, the city was renamed Harare in 1982, two years after Zimbabwe's independence. The name comes from Chief Neharawa, whose village occupied the site. During the colonial era, Salisbury was the administrative center of Southern Rhodesia, leaving an architectural heritage visible in the Parliament and High Court buildings.

Highlights of your visit

National Gallery of Zimbabwe

Founded in 1957, the national gallery houses the country's most important public collection of Shona sculpture. Works in soapstone, characteristic of Zimbabwe, stand alongside temporary exhibitions by contemporary African artists. Admission is modest.

Mbare Musika

This popular market, a few kilometers south of the center, is the city's informal economic heart. You'll find traditional medicinal herbs, fabrics, pottery and affordable street food. Come early morning for maximum energy and buzz.

Harare Gardens and surroundings

This central park hosts cultural events, concerts and the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA), one of southern Africa's largest cultural festivals, held annually in April-May.

Chapungu Sculpture Park

This open-air park, in the Msasa neighborhood, displays dozens of monumental Shona sculptures in a wooded setting. It is one of the best places to understand this artistic tradition unique to Zimbabwe.

Photography tips

Golden morning light is ideal for photographing colonial architecture in the center. At Mbare market, always ask permission before photographing vendors. Chapungu Sculpture Park offers beautiful compositions between sculptures and vegetation in late afternoon. Avoid photographing government buildings, military personnel and police stations.

Location and access

Harare is located in northeastern Zimbabwe. Robert Mugabe International Airport connects the city to Johannesburg, Nairobi, Addis Ababa and several African capitals. Domestic flights serve Bulawayo and Victoria Falls. In the city, taxis and kombis (shared minibuses) are the main means of transport. The historic center is accessible on foot from most CBD hotels.

Nearby attractions

• Great Zimbabwe — the most important dry stone ruins in sub-Saharan Africa, approximately 300 km south.
• Hwange National Park — Zimbabwe's largest reserve, accessible by plane or train from Harare.
• Victoria Falls — one of the world's largest waterfalls, in the western part of the country, connected by daily flights.
• Lake Kariba — vast reservoir on the Zambezi, approximately 4 hours drive northwest, renowned for tiger fishing and cruises.
• Matobo Hills — UNESCO site with spectacular rock formations and San rock paintings, near Bulawayo.