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Harare Travel Resources

Harare Travel Resources

Harare Harare, Zimbabwe Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential apps for the destination

  • Vaya, Bolt

    These ride-sharing apps are for convenient and clear transport within Harare. Download them before you get there.

  • Google Maps

    A comprehensive navigation tool. Download offline maps for Harare to use without an internet connection.

  • WhatsApp

    The main communication tool in Zimbabwe. Most locals and businesses use it for messaging and calls.

  • Google Translate

    Useful for quick translations. Download offline language packs for Shona for use with no internet access.

Useful websites for additional planning

  • Zimbabwe Tourism Authority

    The official tourism website gives general information regarding travel to Zimbabwe.

  • Embassy Websites

    Confirm your native country''s diplomatic mission in Zimbabwe for the latest travel advisories.

  • Airline Websites

    For current flight information, schedules, and on the internet check-in.

  • Hotel Booking Sites

    Use platforms like Booking.com and Expedia for accommodation research and reservations.

  • VPN Service

    Consider NordVPN for cyber security and the ability to reach content while abroad.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

General maps of Harare may be available at accommodations or the airport. Google Maps is usually more current and detailed for navigation.

Books About the Destination

Read 'The House of Hunger' by Dambudzo Marechera or 'Nervous Conditions' by Tsitsi Dangarengba for cultural insight.

Local Publications

The Herald, NewsDay, and The Standard are daily newspapers. Pick one for local insights.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers and Contacts

  • Police: 995
  • Ambulance: 994
  • Fire: 993
  • Your Embassy/Consulate in Harare: Keep their contact details readily available.

Hospital and Clinic Locations

  • Avenues Clinic: A private hospital known for its higher standard of care.
  • St Anne's Hospital: Another reputable private hospital in Harare.
  • Local clinics also operate throughout the urban section for less severe issues.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries and Films

  • Search for documentaries and films about Zimbabwean history, culture, or wildlife.
  • These give visual context and background.

Music and Art

  • Listen to Zimbabwean legends like Thomas Mapfumo and Oliver Mtukudzi.
  • Explore the unique Shona stone sculpture, a globally recognized art form.

Online Communities and Forums

  • Travel forums on platforms like TripAdvisor or Reddit (e.g., r/Zimbabwe) feature insights.
  • Ask questions and get real-time advice from other travelers.
  • Consider language apps like Babbel for basic Shona phrases.

Emergency Planning

Lost Document Procedures

Report & Contact

  • Immediately report any lost or stolen documents (passport, visa) to the local police.
  • Obtain a police report.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate to coordinate for emergency travel documents.

Copies

  • Have electronic and hard copies of all your documents.
  • Store them not with the originals.
  • This greatly speeds up the replacement process.

Natural Disaster Protocols

  • Stay informed by monitoring local news channels or asking hotel staff about any warnings.
  • Follow instructions from local authorities and your accommodation staff.
  • This applies in case of floods or other risks associated with the season.

Your Embassy/Consulate

Information Retrieval

  • Check your government's foreign affairs website for details.
  • Find the specific location and contact details for Harare.
  • Be aware of their operating hours.

Services

  • They offer consular services.
  • This includes assistance with lost documents.
  • They also help with emergencies.

Travel Insurance

Policy Details

  • Carry your policy number.
  • Have their 24/7 emergency contact number handy.
  • This is your main point of details for contacting medical emergencies.

Coverage

  • Comprehensive travel insurance covers medical emergencies.
  • It includes evacuation.
  • It addresses trip cancellation.

Considerations

Financial Preparedness

  1. Have access to ATMs that give USD or ZiG.
  2. Carry a small amount of USD in local denominations.
  3. Inform your bank and inform your credit card companies of your trip.
  4. This helps to avoid card issues abroad.

Digital Security

  1. Download offline maps for navigation.
  2. Use ride-sharing apps like Vaya and Bolt.
  3. Have a translation app with offline language packs.
  4. Consider a VPN for secure internet access.

Documentation Checklist

Passport

Valid for 6 months beyond stay, 3 blank pages.

Visa

Apply for e-Visa if needed, allow processing time.

Copies

Keep digital and physical copies separate from originals.

Critical Alert

Immediate reporting of lost documents speeds up replacement.

Planning Resources

Pre-Trip Research

Cultural & Historical Focus

  • Zimbabwean History

    Read about Zimbabwean history and culture to enrich your trip.

  • Shona Phrases

    Learn basic Shona phrases; this results in interactions richer.

  • Travel Advisories

    Review current financial and safety situations via government travel advisories from your home country.

Home Preparations

  • Secure Your Home

    Lock every window and door before departure.

  • Manage Deliveries

    Suspend mail or newspaper delivery.

  • Pay Bills

    Pay any upcoming bills to avoid late fees.

Required Bookings

International Flights

Secure your international flights to Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE).

Accommodation

Confirm your lodging in Harare in advance.

Specialized Tours

Pre-book specialized tours like visits to Wild Is Life Trust.

Upon Arrival

First Steps

  • Have passport, visa, and customs forms ready for immigration.
  • Obtain ZiG or have USD small denominations for immediate purchases.
  • Purchase a local SIM card at the airport for mobile connectivity.
  • Arrange airport transfer using a pre-booked service, taxi, or ride-sharing app.

Orientation

  • Once settled, familiarize yourself with immediate surroundings.
  • Locate nearest shops, restaurants, and notable sites.
  • Speak to the hotel employees or guesthouse hosts for local advice and directions.

Departure Checklist

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Package fragile souvenirs with care for transport.
  • Inquire about shipping services from the place of purchase.
  • Keep receipts for any significant items bought for customs declaration.

Pre-Departure Timing & VAT

  • Arrive at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport at least 2-ARRIVE 3 hours early for your international flight.
  • Zimbabwe currently does not feature a comprehensive VAT refund scheme for tourists.

Essential Tip

Pre-planning both arrival and departure moments supports a smoother the whole trip.

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