Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Harare

Accommodation

$8-25 per night

Backpacker hostels, budget guesthouses, shared dormitories, or basic private rooms with shared facilities

Food & Dining

$5-15 per day

Street food vendors, local markets, sadza and relish from informal eateries, self-catering with basic groceries

Transportation

$2-8 per day

Commuter omnibuses (kombis), municipal buses, walking for shorter distances

Activities

$3-12 per day

Free walking tours, public parks, local markets, occasional museum visits, community cultural experiences

Use commuter omnibuses (kombis) instead of taxis - typically 70-85% cheaper for city transport

Eat at local markets and informal eateries rather than tourist-focused restaurants - usually 50-70% less expensive

Stay in accommodation outside the city center - generally 30-50% cheaper than central locations

Buy groceries from local markets rather than supermarkets - typically 40-60% savings on fresh produce

Use US dollars in small denominations to avoid unfavorable change rates - can save 10-20% on transactions

Travel during low season months for accommodation discounts of 25-40%

Book longer stays for weekly rates that typically offer 15-25% discounts

Relying exclusively on taxis and ride-hailing services instead of using affordable public transport - can triple daily transport costs

Eating only at hotels and tourist-area restaurants instead of exploring local food options - typically doubles food expenses

Not carrying small denomination US dollars and relying on credit cards everywhere - can add 15-25% in fees and poor exchange rates

Booking accommodation at the last minute during peak season - usually costs 40-60% more than advance bookings