Harare Zimbabwe Travel Guide
Zimbabwe has three main mobile network providers: Econet, NetOne, and Telecel. Econet generally has the widest coverage.
Most mid-range to luxury hotels offer Wi-Fi. It might be free or for a fee. Quality and speed vary.
Zimbabwe Posts (Zimpost) branches are available in Harare. International mail services can be slow.
Zimbabwe recognizes 16 official languages, including English, Shona, and Ndebele.
A local SIM card for mobile data is often the most reliable way to access the internet. For offline translation, download the Shona pack on a translation app.
Be aware of typical operating hours to plan your activities effectively.
Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Saturdays: 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Some supermarkets and malls have longer hours.
Hours vary. Many open for lunch around 12:00 PM and for dinner from 6:00 PM onwards.
Monday-Friday: 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM. Saturdays: 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM. ATMs widely available for ZiG, some for USD.
Public holidays in Zimbabwe (e.g., Independence Day - April 18, Heroes' Day - August, Unity Day - December 22).
Seasonal closures are not common for major tourist attractions in Harare.
Always check a current calendar of Zimbabwean public holidays before your trip to avoid unexpected closures. Consider Priority Pass for airport comfort.
Interacting respectfully with locals and their customs is a cornerstone of responsible travel.
A handshake is a common greeting, often a firm one. Men typically shake hands with men, and women with women, or women with men.
Dress modestly in public spaces. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting traditional settings or religious sites.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or rural areas. Accept a 'no' gracefully. Avoid photographing government buildings, military installations, or police/military personnel unless explicit permission is granted. Be discreet.
Travelers with mobility challenges may find Harare's infrastructure limiting.
Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is limited.
Newer hotels and modern shopping malls may offer better accessibility with ramps and elevators.
Specialized services for tourists with visual impairments are limited.
Specialized services for tourists with hearing impairments are limited.
No prominent organizations specifically focus on accessible tourism in Harare.
If you have particular needs, communicate them clearly with your accommodation and any tour operators well in advance of your trip. Private transport typically offers the most flexible movement.
