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Harare International Conference Centre, Zimbabwe - Things to Do in Harare International Conference Centre

Things to Do in Harare International Conference Centre

Harare International Conference Centre, Zimbabwe - Complete Travel Guide

Harare, Zimbabwe's vibrant capital city, serves as the economic and cultural heart of the nation. Home to over 1.6 million people, this bustling metropolis seamlessly blends modern urban development with traditional African heritage. The city features wide tree-lined avenues, colonial architecture, contemporary shopping centers, and numerous parks that have earned it the nickname 'Sunshine City.' As Zimbabwe's primary gateway, Harare offers visitors a perfect introduction to the country's rich history, diverse culture, and warm hospitality. The city boasts excellent museums, art galleries, bustling markets, and a thriving music scene that showcases both traditional and contemporary Zimbabwean talent. From the National Gallery's impressive collection to the colorful Mbare Market, Harare provides an authentic African urban experience while serving as an ideal base for exploring Zimbabwe's natural wonders.

Top Things to Do in Harare International Conference Centre

National Gallery of Zimbabwe

Explore Zimbabwe's premier art institution showcasing contemporary African art, traditional sculptures, and rotating exhibitions from local and international artists. The gallery houses an impressive collection of stone sculptures, paintings, and crafts that represent the country's artistic heritage. Visitors can also browse the on-site shop for authentic Zimbabwean artwork and souvenirs.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are around $3-5 USD, and the gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday. Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience and better opportunities to interact with staff about the collections.

Mbare Market Experience

Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Zimbabwe's largest market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce and traditional crafts to clothing and household goods. This authentic local experience offers insight into daily Zimbabwean life and culture. The market is particularly famous for its vibrant textiles, wood carvings, and traditional medicines.

Booking Tip: Visit in the morning for the freshest produce and most active atmosphere. Bring small denomination USD notes for purchases, and consider hiring a local guide for $10-15 to help navigate and translate.

Balancing Rocks and Kopje Exploration

Discover Harare's unique geological formations featuring massive granite boulders balanced precariously on top of each other. These natural sculptures, found throughout the city's kopjes (small hills), offer excellent hiking opportunities and panoramic city views. The rocks hold cultural significance for local communities and provide great photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Access is typically free, but wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures for hiking.

Mukuvisi Woodlands

Escape the city bustle at this 263-hectare nature reserve that protects indigenous woodland and wildlife within Harare's boundaries. The reserve offers walking trails, bird watching opportunities, and chances to see antelope, warthogs, and various small mammals. Educational programs and guided walks provide insights into local ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are around $5-8 USD for adults. Book guided walks in advance through their office, and visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Traditional Music and Dance Performances

Experience Zimbabwe's rich musical heritage through live performances featuring traditional instruments like the mbira, drums, and marimba. Many venues offer dinner shows combining authentic cuisine with cultural entertainment. These performances often include audience participation and explanations of the cultural significance of different musical styles.

Booking Tip: Shows typically cost $15-25 USD including dinner. Book through hotels or cultural centers, and evening performances usually start around 7 PM. Weekend shows tend to be more elaborate but also more crowded.

Getting There

Harare is served by Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, located about 15 kilometers southeast of the city center. The airport receives international flights from major African cities including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Nairobi, and Dubai, as well as some European destinations. Most visitors arrive via connecting flights through South Africa. Airport transfers include official taxis (around $25-30 USD), ride-hailing services, and pre-arranged hotel shuttles. Overland travel is possible from neighboring countries, with bus services connecting to Johannesburg, Bulawayo, and other regional destinations.

Getting Around

Harare's transportation options include official taxis, ride-hailing apps like Bolt, and private car hire with driver services. The city has an extensive but often unreliable public bus system called ZUPCO, while commuter omnibuses (combis) offer cheaper but less comfortable alternatives. For safety and convenience, most tourists opt for pre-arranged transfers, hotel shuttles, or reputable taxi companies. Car rental is available but requires familiarity with local driving conditions and fuel availability. Walking is possible in the city center during daylight hours, though distances between attractions can be considerable.

Where to Stay

City Center
Avondale
Mount Pleasant
Borrowdale
Highlands
Newlands

Food & Dining

Harare's dining scene offers everything from upscale restaurants serving international cuisine to local eateries specializing in traditional Zimbabwean dishes. Popular local foods include sadza (maize porridge), grilled meats, vegetables, and fresh fish. The city center and suburbs like Borrowdale feature numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars catering to various budgets. Street food vendors offer affordable local snacks, while hotel restaurants provide familiar international options. Many establishments accept US dollars, and tipping 10-15% is customary for good service.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Harare

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

The Three Monkeys Harare

4.5 /5
(746 reviews) 2

Café de Paris

4.5 /5
(406 reviews)
bakery cafe store

NoodleBox Harare

4.8 /5
(332 reviews)

The Kitchen

4.6 /5
(343 reviews)

Ocean Basket Highland Park

4.6 /5
(328 reviews)

Oak Tree

4.5 /5
(296 reviews) 2

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Harare is during the dry season from April to October, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is minimal. May through August offers the coolest temperatures (15-25°C/59-77°F) and is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. September and October can be quite hot before the rains begin. The wet season (November to March) brings afternoon thunderstorms and higher humidity but also lush green landscapes. December through February is the hottest period, though morning and evening temperatures remain pleasant.

Insider Tips

US dollars are widely accepted and preferred over local currency, so bring small denomination bills in good condition
Power outages are common, so carry a power bank for your devices and consider staying in accommodations with backup generators
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics openly, and use hotel safes for valuables when exploring the city

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