Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences, Zimbabwe - Things to Do in Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences

Things to Do in Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences

Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences, Zimbabwe - Complete Travel Guide

Harare, Zimbabwe's vibrant capital city, is home to the fascinating Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences, which serves as a gateway to understanding the rich cultural heritage and natural history of this remarkable Southern African nation. The museum, located in the heart of the city, offers visitors an immersive journey through Zimbabwe's archaeological treasures, ethnographic collections, and scientific discoveries that span thousands of years of human civilization in the region. Beyond the museum, Harare presents a compelling blend of colonial architecture, bustling markets, contemporary art galleries, and lush botanical gardens that reflect the country's complex history and promising future. The city serves as an excellent base for exploring Zimbabwe's cultural and natural wonders, from the nearby Domboshava rock art sites to the scenic Mukuvisi Woodlands. Harare's tree-lined avenues, nicknamed the 'Sunshine City,' create a pleasant urban environment where visitors can experience authentic Zimbabwean hospitality, sample traditional cuisine, and engage with local artisans whose crafts represent centuries-old traditions that are beautifully documented in the Museum of Human Sciences.

Top Things to Do in Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences

Explore Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences

Discover Zimbabwe's rich archaeological and cultural heritage through extensive collections of ancient artifacts, traditional crafts, and scientific specimens. The museum features remarkable displays of Great Zimbabwe artifacts, traditional musical instruments, and ethnographic materials that tell the story of the country's diverse communities.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are typically under $5 USD, and the museum is open Tuesday through Sunday. Visit in the morning for the best lighting in exhibition halls, and consider hiring a local guide for $10-15 to gain deeper insights into the collections.

Visit National Gallery of Zimbabwe

Experience contemporary and traditional Zimbabwean art at this premier cultural institution showcasing sculptures, paintings, and crafts by local and regional artists. The gallery regularly hosts exhibitions featuring the famous Shona sculpture movement and emerging contemporary artists.

Booking Tip: Admission is around $3 USD, and the gallery offers guided tours for an additional $5. Best visited on weekdays when it's less crowded, and many artworks are available for purchase directly from artists.

Explore Mbare Musika Market

Immerse yourself in Zimbabwe's largest traditional market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce and traditional medicines to handcrafted items and textiles. This bustling marketplace offers an authentic glimpse into daily Zimbabwean life and commerce.

Booking Tip: Visit with a local guide ($15-20 for half-day) for safety and cultural context. Go early morning for the freshest produce and most active atmosphere, and bring small denomination US dollars for purchases.

Discover Domboshava Rock Art

Journey to ancient San Bushmen rock paintings located just outside Harare, featuring thousands of years old artwork depicting hunting scenes, spiritual ceremonies, and daily life. The site offers hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding granite landscape.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $2 USD, and it's best visited as part of a day trip ($40-60 including transport). Bring water, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes as the site requires moderate hiking to reach the main painting areas.

Stroll Through Harare Gardens

Relax in the city's premier botanical garden featuring indigenous and exotic plant species, peaceful walking paths, and occasional outdoor concerts. The gardens provide a tranquil escape from urban life and showcase Zimbabwe's diverse flora.

Booking Tip: Free entry makes this an excellent budget-friendly activity. Best visited in early morning or late afternoon, and perfect for combining with nearby attractions like the National Gallery. Weekends often feature local music performances.

Getting There

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, located 15 kilometers southeast of Harare, serves as Zimbabwe's main international gateway with connections to major African cities and some international destinations. Most visitors arrive via Johannesburg, Dubai, or other regional hubs. From the airport, official taxis cost $25-35 USD to the city center, while airport shuttles and ride-sharing services offer more economical options. Overland travelers can reach Harare by bus from neighboring countries, with comfortable coach services operating from Johannesburg, Bulawayo, and other regional cities.

Getting Around

Harare's city center is relatively compact and walkable during daylight hours, with most major attractions including the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences within reasonable walking distance of each other. For longer distances, registered taxis and ride-sharing apps like Bolt provide safe transportation, typically costing $3-10 USD for city trips. Local commuter omnibuses (combis) offer very economical transport but can be crowded and confusing for visitors. Many hotels can arrange private drivers for day trips, and car rental agencies operate from the airport and city center, though driving requires familiarity with local traffic patterns and road conditions.

Where to Stay

City Center
Borrowdale
Mount Pleasant
Avondale
The Avenues
Newlands

Food & Dining

Harare's dining scene reflects Zimbabwe's cultural diversity and colonial influences, ranging from upscale restaurants serving international cuisine to traditional eateries offering local specialties like sadza (cornmeal staple), nyama (grilled meat), and matemba (dried fish). The city center and suburbs like Borrowdale feature numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs, many housed in converted colonial buildings with outdoor seating. Street food vendors and local markets provide authentic and economical dining experiences, particularly for traditional dishes and fresh tropical fruits. Many restaurants 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

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Harare and the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences is during the dry season from April to October, when temperatures are mild, rainfall is minimal, and outdoor activities are most comfortable. The winter months of May through August offer the most pleasant weather with cool mornings and warm afternoons, though evenings can be chilly. The hot season from September to November can be quite warm but still manageable for museum visits and city exploration. The rainy season from November to March brings afternoon thunderstorms and higher humidity, but also lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, making it an excellent time for cultural attractions and indoor activities.

Insider Tips

The museum often has special exhibitions and cultural events not widely advertised, so check their social media or ask at reception for current programs and workshops
US dollars are widely accepted and preferred over local currency, but carry small denominations as change can be difficult to obtain
Photography restrictions apply in some museum areas and cultural sites, so always ask permission before taking photos, especially of people or sacred objects

Explore Activities in Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences