Harare is the lively and colourful capital of Zimbabwe, an African country located in the southeastern part of the continent. It is a city of contrast, a combination of a modern business district and older, historically significant monuments. The people of Harare are warm and friendly, their culture deeply rooted in their traditional values. In this text, we’ll explore some of the history and culture of Harare, discover its attractions and offerings, and learn more about its vibrant locals.
Getting to Know Harare
Harare is the capital and largest city of Zimbabwe. It has an estimated population of 1.6 million people and is located in the UTC+2 time zone. English is the official language and varies dialects, including Ndebele, Shona and Sindebele also, are spoken. The Zimbabwean Dollar is the official currency of the country.
Climate and Weather
Harare has a Subtropical Highveld Climate with very hot summers and cool to cold winters. It is located in the centre of Zimbabwe and has an altitude of 1483 m above sea level. The summer months (October-March) are characterized by hot days and cool to cold nights. During this time temperatures range between 20 – 34°C and often reach their peaks in November and December. The winter months (June-August) are cooler and much drier with temperatures rarely reaching more than 22°C. Rainfall is generally evenly spread throughout the year reaching its peak in the months of December and February. Harare receives an average annual rainfall of 850 mm and generally experiences sunny weather though it is subject to occasional thunderstorms.
Touring Harare: Airport and Transportation
There are two airports in Harare: The Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (formerly Harare International Airport) and the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (formerly Bulawayo International Airport).
Getting from the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport to downtown Harare normally costs around US$25 to US$40, depending on the duration of the trip and the type of vehicle.
There are money changers at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport where you can change local currency.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Harare
- Harare is the capital of Zimbabwe and the largest city in the nation, known for its vibrant culture and diverse population
- Harare is home to many museums such as the National Gallery, Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences, and the Cecil Rhodes Museum, which explore the country’s history and culture from pre-colonial times to the present day.
- Visitors to Harare can enjoy a range of activities such as exploring the local markets, taking part in the lively nightlife, or enjoying the variety of festivals, including the Harare International Festival of the Arts which celebrates Zimbabwean culture and art