Where to Stay in Harare
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
Find Hotels Across Harare
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Regions of Harare
Each region has a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
The heart of Zimbabwe's government and commerce. Stay here for business meetings, proximity to museums like the National Gallery, and a central but often congested urban experience. Security and reliable power/water are key considerations.
The affluent, leafy residential and diplomatic enclaves north of the city center. This area has a quieter, greener, and generally more secure base with easy access to shopping malls, embassies, and upmarket restaurants.
A purpose-built tourist town entirely focused on accessing the iconic waterfall and adventure activities. Everything is within walking distance, from craft markets to booking agents for white-water rafting and helicopter flights.
Properties located 5-20km upstream from the waterfall along the Zambezi River. This area has a more secluded, wildlife-focused experience, with rooms often facing the river where hippos and elephants are regular visitors.
A misty, mountainous region of pine forests, tea estates, and hiking trails along the border with Mozambique. The climate is cool and refreshing, a stark contrast to the rest of the country.
The world's largest man-made lake, offering a unique combination of water-based wildlife viewing, tiger fishing, and dramatic sunsets. Accommodation is either on the shore or on floating houseboats.
The historical and archaeological heartland, centered on the ancient stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe. This is a stop for history buffs and those traveling between Harare, Bulawayo, and the Eastern Highlands.
Zimbabwe's second city, with wide streets and a strong Ndebele cultural heritage, is the gateway to the spiritually significant Matobo Hills, known for their balancing rock formations and rhino tracking.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across Harare
International presence is limited but includes African Sun Hotels (local chain with properties like The Victoria Falls Hotel and Rainbow Towers), Cresta Hotels (Zimbabwean chain), and Belmond (at Matetsi). The major players are well-established local groups and independent safari lodge operators like African Bush Camps and Imvelo Safari Lodges.
The backbone of accommodation outside major hubs. This includes family-run guesthouses, often in suburban homes with high walls and security; 'lodges' which can range from simple brick chalets to luxurious bush camps; and 'cottages' or 'self-catering' units, which are extremely popular for domestic tourism and longer stays, in the Eastern Highlands and at Lake Kariba.
Safari Lodges and Bush Camps are the iconic Zimbabwean stay, in Hwange and Mana Pools. Houseboats on Lake Kariba are a unique regional specialty. Some historic properties, like The Victoria Falls Hotel or The Montclair, offer a distinct colonial-era 'grand hotel' experience. In rural areas, you might find Community Lodges, which are simple accommodations owned and run by local villages, directly benefiting the community.
Booking Tips for Harare
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
While platforms like Booking.com work, contacting lodges and hotels directly via email or phone often yields better rates, allows for package customization (e.g., adding airport transfers), and is important for confirming specific needs like generator backup or water supply. Direct payment can sometimes avoid platform commissions.
In safari areas, 'all-inclusive' typically means meals, local drinks, and two daily activities. In Victoria Falls, it might just be meals. Always verify what activities, premium drinks, and park fees are included to avoid surprise costs.
For peak season (July-Oct), book your accommodation as soon as you have travel dates, but ensure you understand the visa process (e.g., KAZA Univisa for Zambia/Zimbabwe) as some lodges may require proof of visa or passport details to confirm, near borders.
Almost all tourist accommodation is priced and paid for in US Dollars. While you can use USD cash or cards, be aware that some places may offer a discount for payment in hard currency cash. Always have a mix of payment methods.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across Harare
For Victoria Falls and safari lodges (July-October), book 9 to 12 months in advance, for the most sought-after properties like Matetsi or top Hwange camps.
For the April-June and November period, aim to book 3-6 months ahead. You'll have more flexibility, but popular spots still fill up.
During the rainy season (Dec-Mar, excluding Christmas), you can often book 1-4 weeks ahead, except for Christmas itself. This is when you might find significant last-minute discounts.
If you have your heart set on a specific iconic lodge or are traveling in a group, book as early as possible regardless of season. For more flexible trips to cities or the Eastern Highlands, a few months' notice is usually sufficient.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for Harare
Frequently Asked Questions
harare hotels
Harare has accommodation options ranging from international chains like Meikles Hotel and Rainbow Towers in the city center to mid-range properties in the Avondale and Mount Pleasant suburbs. Budget travelers can find guesthouses and backpackers in areas like Avondale, with prices starting around $30-40 per night, while upscale hotels typically run $100-200+. The suburbs generally offer better value and quieter stays compared to the CBD, though you'll need transport to get around. We recommend booking in advance during peak season (August-October) as quality accommodation can fill up quickly.