One of the best roads we drove in Zimbabwe brought us to the capital in just five enjoyable hours. After many days of navigating pothole-ridden highways, the smooth 317-kilometre journey felt almost magical (toll fee 2x 4 USD). We spent two nights and one full day exploring Harare, Zimbabwe’s vibrant and bustling capital. Situated at an elevation of 1,483 metres on the country’s northeastern highveld, the city enjoys a pleasant subtropical climate and is surrounded by gently rolling grasslands dotted with distinctive granite kopjes.
Long before British colonisation, the area was home to a settlement led by the Shona chief Neharawa, whose nickname meant “he who does not sleep.” On 12 September 1890, the Pioneer Column, organised by Cecil Rhodes and the British South Africa Company, established Fort Salisbury on the site. Named after the British Prime Minister, Lord Salisbury, the settlement rapidly developed into an important administrative, railway, and commercial centre during the colonial era. Following Zimbabwe’s independence, the city was officially renamed Harare on 18 April 1982, the country’s second Independence Day.
During our full day of sightseeing, we explored many of the city’s historic landmarks, including Africa Unity Square (formerly Cecil Square), the Mashonganyika Building (home to the Supreme Court of Zimbabwe), the Cathedral of St. Mary and All Saints, the High Court of Zimbabwe, the historic Meikles Hotel, the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, the innovative Eastgate Centre, and the National Gallery of Zimbabwe. Later, we booked an InDrive to visit the impressive Chiremba Balancing Rocks (🎟️10 USD), one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic natural landmarks, before finishing the day at the National Heroes’ Acre (🎟️10 USD), a monumental memorial dedicated to those who fought for the country’s independence.
Harare also offers an excellent dining and nightlife scene, combining traditional Zimbabwean braai (barbecue) with a wide range of international cuisines. After sunset, the city comes alive with stylish cocktail lounges, live music venues, and energetic nightclubs, especially on weekends. We enjoyed an afternoon meal at Smokehouse, while Centurion Pub & Grill was our favourite spot for dinner and evening drinks. For those looking to experience Harare’s nightlife, popular venues include Evitro Lounge, Jam Tree, Tin Roof Bucket Bar, and Pablo’z Club, all of which attract a lively mix of locals, expats, and visitors.
Parking location – Harare: 17.813088S 31.0506171E (🚻,💦,🍽️,🅿️5 USD)