7 Free Things to Do in Harare

As a digital nomad, exploring a new city while managing work can be a thrilling experience. Harare, the bustling capital of Zimbabwe, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and urban life. While you're taking a break from your remote work, there are plenty of free activities to immerse yourself in the local vibe without spending a dime. From popular spots to hidden gems, here's a curated list of free things to do in Harare that will enrich your stay.

Harare Gardens

The Harare Gardens is the largest public park in Harare, offering a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle. It's a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and observing local flora. The gardens also host occasional cultural events and art exhibitions, which you can enjoy for free. It's a perfect place to relax, read a book, or even catch up on some work outdoors.

Location: Samora Machel Avenue, Harare. The gardens are centrally located, making them easily accessible from various parts of the city.

Travel Tip: Visit during the weekdays when the gardens are less crowded, providing a peaceful environment for work or relaxation.

Nearby: After a stroll in the gardens, head over to the nearby Café Espresso for a refreshing drink or a light meal. They are known for their excellent coffee and pastries.

Mukuvisi Woodlands

For nature enthusiasts, the Mukuvisi Woodlands is a must-visit. This environmental park offers walking trails where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. It's an excellent opportunity for wildlife photography or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. The woodlands also provide educational tours about Zimbabwe's ecology, which are free of charge.

Location: Glenara Avenue, Eastlea, Harare. The woodlands are situated in the eastern part of the city, providing a quick nature getaway.

Travel Tip: Early morning is the best time to visit for wildlife sightings and cooler temperatures for your walk or run.

Nearby: The Mukuvisi Woodlands Café offers a range of snacks and meals, with a view of the woodlands that complements your experience.

Chapungu Sculpture Park

Art lovers will appreciate the Chapungu Sculpture Park, an outdoor gallery showcasing stone sculptures from Zimbabwean artists. The park is a testament to the country's rich artistic tradition and offers a glimpse into the cultural and social themes of Zimbabwe. Walking through the park, you'll be able to see a variety of sculptures and even watch artists at work.

Location: Msasa, Harare. The sculpture park is located in the suburb of Msasa, which is known for its industrial and commercial activities.

Travel Tip: Bring a camera to capture the intricate details of the sculptures, which are often missed at first glance.

Nearby: Stop by the nearby Veldemeers for some of the best handmade Belgian chocolates in Harare, a sweet treat after an art-filled day.

Heroes Acre

Heroes Acre is an iconic landmark and national shrine that honors the fallen heroes of Zimbabwe's liberation war. The monument features a towering sculpture and an eternal flame, and it provides panoramic views of Harare. It's a place of reflection and learning about the country's history, with free access to the public.

Location: The shrine is located on the outskirts of Harare along the main road to Bulawayo, making it a prominent feature on the city's skyline.

Travel Tip: Attend the annual Heroes Day celebrations if you're in Harare during August for a truly memorable experience.

Nearby: On your way back to the city, grab a bite at the famous Gava's Restaurant, known for its traditional Zimbabwean cuisine.

Joina City Mall

While not a traditional tourist attraction, Joina City Mall is the heart of Harare's shopping scene and a great place to experience urban life. Window shopping through the mall's various stores can be an enjoyable pastime, and you'll often find free entertainment like music performances or fashion shows taking place in the central atrium.

Location: Corner of Jason Moyo Avenue and Julius Nyerere Way, Harare. The mall is situated in the central business district, making it a convenient stop during your city explorations.

Travel Tip: Check the mall's notice boards or social media pages for announcements on upcoming free events you can attend.

Nearby: The mall has a food court with a variety of options, but for a more local experience, try the street food vendors outside for some delicious, affordable eats.

Eastgate Centre

Eastgate Centre is not only a shopping destination but also an architectural marvel known for its sustainable design inspired by termite mounds. It's a great example of eco-friendly architecture in an urban setting. Exploring the building is free, and you can learn about its natural cooling system, which reduces the need for air conditioning.

Location: Robert Mugabe Road, Harare. Eastgate Centre is centrally located and easily recognizable due to its unique design.

Travel Tip: The building is particularly impressive at night when it's lit up, so consider an evening walk to see it in a different light.

Nearby: The nearby Café Nush in Avondale offers a cozy atmosphere and a selection of healthy meals and smoothies, perfect for a post-architecture exploration refreshment.

Harare Street Art

Discovering Harare's street art is like going on an urban treasure hunt. Various walls and buildings around the city are adorned with vibrant murals that reflect Zimbabwe's culture and social issues. Take a self-guided tour to find these hidden gems, which make for great photo opportunities and conversation starters.

Location: Street art can be found throughout Harare, but some of the best pieces are in the Avenues area and along Julius Nyerere Way.

Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for new pieces, as the street art scene is dynamic and constantly evolving with new artists making their mark.

Nearby: After your art walk, relax at the Book Café, a cultural hub that often features live music and poetry readings.

Lake Chivero Recreational Park

Lake Chivero Recreational Park is a scenic spot where you can enjoy the beauty of Lake Chivero and its surrounding wildlife. While some activities in the park may have a fee, simply walking around and enjoying the views is free. It's a great place for birdwatching, with over 400 bird species recorded in the area.

Location: Located about 30 kilometers west of Harare, the park is a bit of a drive but well worth the trip for nature lovers.

Travel Tip: Bring binoculars if you have them to enhance your birdwatching experience.

Nearby: There aren't many food options in the immediate vicinity, so pack a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside.

Avondale Flea Market

The Avondale Flea Market is a bustling hub where you can browse through a wide array of goods, from crafts and clothing to electronics and local produce. While purchasing is optional, the market offers a lively atmosphere and insight into the local way of life. It's also a great place to practice your bargaining skills, even if you're just doing it for fun.

Location: Avondale Shopping Centre, Harare. The flea market is easily accessible and a well-known spot among locals and visitors alike.

Travel Tip: Even if you don't plan to buy anything, the flea market is a great place to take photos and meet local vendors.

Nearby: The market is surrounded by various eateries, but for a quick and tasty meal, try the nearby Slice Pizzeria, known for its delicious pizza slices.

Exploring Harare doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. These free activities offer a mix of nature, culture, history, and urban life, providing a well-rounded experience for digital nomads looking to get to know the city beyond their work routine.