If you thought Harare couldn't get any more relaxed, you clearly haven't visited its botanical gardens. Spread over 68 hectares, it's an extremely peaceful spot, showcasing 90% of the different ecological habitats found in Zimbabwe. However, it's suffering neglect from recent drought and lack of funding. A bicycle is the ideal way to get around; hire one from It's a Small World. Its restaurant is a pleasant spot for lunch; otherwise pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawns.
National Botanic Gardens
Harare
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
5 MILES
The grandiose obelisk of Heroes' Acre, overlooking the town, is straight out of Pyongyang, yet lies just 7km from Harare. Designed with the assistance of…
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1.77 MILES
In the southeast corner of Harare Gardens, this lovely gallery has multiple spaces exhibiting a mix of contemporary local, African and international…
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1.48 MILES
A must for contemporary art lovers is this gallery inside the charming colonial house of eminent Rhodesian painter Robert Paul (1906–79). It showcases…
Mukuvisi Woodlands Environmental Centre
3.39 MILES
Only 7km from the city, most of the 265 hectares here are natural msasa parkland where zebras, giraffes and antelope species roam free. View from the…
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Lake Chivero Recreational Park
20.09 MILES
Only 32km from the capital, Lake Chivero is one of the best places in Zimbabwe to spot rhinos in the wild. Run by the national parks, it's home to several…
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18.92 MILES
Part winery, part game reserve, part polo field, part boutique lodge: Bushman Rock has a number of faces to it. The vineyard was established in the 1930s…
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0.79 MILES
Founded in 1935, this building is the repository for the history of Rhodesia and modern Zimbabwe. It's worth a visit to see artefacts, photos, accounts of…
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2.19 MILES
Inspired by the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, the Eastgate Centre shopping complex is noteworthy for its sustainable design based on a termite mound, which…
Nearby Harare attractions
1. National Archives of Zimbabwe
0.79 MILES
Founded in 1935, this building is the repository for the history of Rhodesia and modern Zimbabwe. It's worth a visit to see artefacts, photos, accounts of…
1.48 MILES
A must for contemporary art lovers is this gallery inside the charming colonial house of eminent Rhodesian painter Robert Paul (1906–79). It showcases…
1.5 MILES
Centrally located church that has several sittings for its Sunday service.
4. National Gallery of Zimbabwe
1.77 MILES
In the southeast corner of Harare Gardens, this lovely gallery has multiple spaces exhibiting a mix of contemporary local, African and international…
1.8 MILES
This is the city's largest park and a popular spot with locals to hang out. Look for the island-like stand of rainforest with its miniature Victoria Falls…
1.98 MILES
Designed by notable British architect Sir Herbert Baker in 1913, this attractive sandstone church wasn't built for another 50 years.
2.19 MILES
Inspired by the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, the Eastgate Centre shopping complex is noteworthy for its sustainable design based on a termite mound, which…
8. Mukuvisi Woodlands Environmental Centre
3.39 MILES
Only 7km from the city, most of the 265 hectares here are natural msasa parkland where zebras, giraffes and antelope species roam free. View from the…