Well-known for its striking jacaranda-lined avenues, Harare, the laid-back capital of Zimbabwe, lies in the north-eastern part of the country in the Mashonaland region. The city offers a unique African experience, including contemporary art showcased at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, indigenous fauna and flora at the Mukuvisi Woodlands, as well as iconic landmarks such as the Epworth Balancing Rocks. Harare stretches over an area of about 940 square kilometres and has a population of approximately 1,560,000. It was previously named Salisbury, during the brief Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland from 1953 to 1963, and of Rhodesia during the unilateral declaration of Independence from 1965 to 1979. It remained the capital city under the new government of independent Zimbabwe in 1980 and was renamed Harare in 1982. The name Harare originates from
the Shona word ‘haarari’ which means ‘one who does not sleep’, quite ironic given the fact that it is one of the slower-paced capitals in Africa!

Harare is often regarded as a place you must pass through, to get elsewhere in
Zimbabwe. It is however worth spending time in the city to explore some of its highlights. It offers a mishmash of travel experiences, ranging from art galleries and historical landmarks to wildlife sanctuaries and an abundance of natural beauty.

Located in the heart of Harare, is the Mukuvisi Woodlands, a sprawling conservation area of indigenous Msasa and Miombi tree species and home to an impressive variety of native wildlife and
birdlife breeds. The forested spaces offer viewing opportunities of eland, wildebeest, impala, and giraffe from the viewing
platform, particularly when the game assemble with their offspring at feeding time. At the time of writing, admission to the woodlands was US$5 per hour. It is open to the public from 8am to 5pm daily and offers well marked walking, running and bike trails. Conveniently situated within the city limits, a visit to the woodlands is a great introduction to
Zimbabwe’s wildlife, before heading further afield to the country’s national parks and nature reserves.

The Epworth Balancing Rocks site, southeast of the city, features igneous rocks that can be found in many parts of Zimbabwe but are particularly noteworthy near the township of Epworth, as well as
the Matopos National Park. The giant boulders, stacked on top of each other, are a natural phenomenon in a perfectly balanced state. Unfortunately, the park is not very well-maintained, despite a sizeable admission fee and does not offer any facilities or signage. As such, keep a look out for the rock art portraying the lifestyles of past inhabitants of the area.

For art and culture enthusiasts, the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, in Harare central, showcases arts dedicated to the conservation of Zimbabwe’s contemporary art and visual heritage. Opened in 1957, its aim is to preserve and publish a collection of artworks for the present and future
generations of Zimbabwe. It is home to an eclectic mix of masks, images and sculptures, dating back to the beginning of Zimbabwean artworks to the post-colonial era.

CLIMATE:
The rainy season is usually from November to March.

TRANSPORT:
The Harare International Airport offers car rental services.

EMERGENCIES:
Tow in Service - Try Road Angels Breakdown Services 24/7: +263(0)772 122 122.

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