Harare is the capital city of Zimbabwe and lies in the northeast of the country, some 700km east of Victoria Falls and 1123km from Johannesburg, South Africa. It was renamed Harare on the second anniversary of independence, and there are numerous attractions that celebrate the country’s heritage, including the National Heroes Acre.
It receives more than the national rainfall average and its lofty heights are much cooler. The vegetation is lush and the terrain is more severe, with three mountain ranges to explore. This all means that the fauna and flora are very different, offering nature enthusiasts numerous opportunities for hiking, horse riding, fishing, and golf. The area is renowned in Africa for the diversity of birds, with many travelling to the area hoping to add rare species to their checklists.
The Victoria Falls Destination Management Company is Zimbabwe’s premier DMC and PCO (professional conference organiser) focused purely on the key incentive travel, conference and meetings markets. Our experience in these segments also uniquely qualifies us to extend our services to private luxury and leisure travellers seeking to experience authentic Africa.
The Bronte Hotel is an oasis of tranquillity, renowned for its beautiful gardens and collection of fine Shona Sculptures. Centrally located in the Avenues, within walking distance of downtown Harare, The Bronte offers well appointed rooms and executive suites in an idyllic garden setting. Designed for both the business and leisure traveler alike.
York Lodge is a beautiful colonial house situated just five minutes drive from the centre of Harare and fifteen minutes from Harare Airport. Although York Lodge is very close to the centre of the city, the sound of traffic is almost non-existent and it is a secure haven of peace and tranquility.
Harare generally has a very relaxed air about it, with wide avenues lined with colourful vegetation. Tourists are, however, advised to stay clear of the State House precinct. While the country has endured economic difficulties recently, the city boasts some excellent restaurants, museums, and galleries, along with a good selection of accommodation, making it a worthwhile pre- or post-safari stopover.
Overseas visitors can fly into the Robert G Mugabe International Airport, which is about 15km from Harare’s city centre. African Eden’s member properties and tour operators will gladly assist in advising you on the most practical airlines to use from your point of origin. The country has an extensive network of roads, which vary in condition as one travels. Still, by and large, one can easily travel to Zimbabwe’s capital from any of the major national and regional centres in a regular sedan. However, it is suggested that tourists not travel at night due to the possibility of pedestrians and animals on the roads.
Harare is said to have one of the most pleasant climates of any city, making it a year-round destination. It does experience the same Wet and Dry Seasons as the rest of the country, but this affects neither travel nor activities. The Summer months herald the rains from November to April, during which daytime temperatures can get hot, only to be cooled by afternoon showers and balmy evenings. Winter temperatures are warm by day and cool to cold in the evening and early morning. There is little to no rain from May to October.
