Harare is the vibrant capital city of Zimbabwe! Whether you’re a local or a tourist visiting for the first time, there are plenty of exciting things to do and see in this bustling African metropolis.
From exploring lush botanical gardens to seeing exotic animals up close at wildlife sanctuaries, Harare offers endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. In this blog post, we’ll share some fun activities that will help you make the most out of your visit to Harare.
So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of Africa’s most dynamic cities. You can always book a cheap flight to Harare.
Visit the National Botanic Gardens
The National Botanic Gardens in Harare is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The vast gardens are spread over 58 hectares and boast an impressive collection of indigenous and exotic plants, trees, and shrubs. As you walk along the winding paths that meander through the lush greenery, you’ll be surrounded by stunning flora from all parts of Zimbabwe.
One of the highlights of the gardens is the Bonsai Collection which features miniature trees carefully cultivated to perfection. You can also explore various themed gardens such as the medicinal plant garden or enjoy bird-watching trails where you can spot some unique species fluttering about.
The National Botanic Gardens is not just a place for horticulture enthusiasts but it’s perfect for picnicking with friends or family too. There are plenty of shady spots to unwind under while enjoying scenic views and soaking up some Vitamin D.
Make sure to bring your camera as well because there will be ample opportunities for gorgeous photos amidst this natural beauty. A visit here will leave you feeling refreshed, invigorated, and closer to Mother Nature than ever before!
Take a tour of Harare Zoo
The Harare Zoo is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers and families alike. The zoo has a wide range of animals from lions, giraffes, zebras to exotic birds like peacocks and ostriches. A tour around the zoo will take you through a variety of habitats that are home to different species. Book a cheap ticket to Harare to witness.
One highlight of the zoo is getting up close with the elephants. You can feed them or even go on an elephant ride! It’s an unforgettable experience that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Another fascinating exhibit in the Harare Zoo is the reptile house where visitors can learn about snakes, lizards, and crocodiles indigenous to Zimbabwe.
If you’re visiting during feeding times, be sure not to miss it as it’s exciting seeing carnivores such as lions being fed their raw meat by keepers!
Taking a tour of Harare Zoo offers an opportunity to learn about wildlife conservation efforts in Zimbabwe while enjoying fun activities like animal interactions.
See the animals at Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage
Located just outside of Bulawayo, the Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage is a must-visit for animal lovers. This sanctuary takes care of injured and orphaned animals, rehabilitating them in a safe environment before releasing them back into the wild.
Visitors can see a variety of African wildlife up close, including lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and baboons. The knowledgeable staff are happy to answer any questions you may have about the animals and their rehabilitation process.
One unique aspect of Chipangali is its night tours. These tours give visitors an opportunity to see nocturnal animals such as owls and porcupines in action. It’s an unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed!
In addition to its wildlife conservation efforts, Chipangali also provides education programs for local schools and communities. By learning about these amazing creatures and how they contribute to Zimbabwe’s ecosystem, we can all do our part in protecting them for future generations.
Visiting the Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage is both a fun and educational experience that supports an important cause. It’s definitely worth adding to your Harare itinerary.
Shop for local arts and crafts at the Mbare Musika Market
One of the best things to do when in Harare is to visit Mbare Musika Market. This bustling market offers an authentic African shopping experience where you can find a wide variety of local arts and crafts.
At Mbare Musika Market, you’ll find handmade jewellery, wooden carvings, woven baskets, and traditional clothing. The vibrant colours and intricate designs make for truly unique souvenirs or gifts.
The market is also a great place to try out your bargaining skills as most vendors expect customers to haggle over prices. But be sure to do it with respect and enjoy the process!
Aside from the souvenir shopping, there are also food stalls offering traditional Zimbabwean dishes such as sadza (a type of cornmeal porridge) and roasted maize. It’s a perfect opportunity to taste some local cuisine while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the market.
Visiting Mbare Musika Market is not only a fun way to spend an afternoon but also supports local artisans and small businesses. Don’t forget your camera!
Conclusion
Harare has so much to offer in terms of entertainment and adventure. From visiting the National Botanic Gardens to going on a safari in Hwange National Park, there is something for everyone. The city’s rich history can be explored in the National Museum while the local arts and crafts at Mbare Musika Market are perfect souvenirs to take back home.
Whether you’re travelling alone or with family and friends, Harare will not disappoint. So why not plan your next trip to this beautiful city and experience all that it has to offer? We guarantee you’ll have an incredible time exploring its many wonders!
