Harare, the vibrant capital of Zimbabwe, is a city full of cultural charm, historical sites, and bustling markets. If you’re planning a visit from London, UK, understanding the transportation system in Harare can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly travel options or a convenient way to explore, this guide covers everything you need to know about getting around Harare – transport & travel hacks to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Public Transport in Harare
Public transport in Harare is affordable but not always organized compared to London’s well-structured system. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Minibuses (Combis) – The Most Common Option
- Cost: Extremely cheap, around $0.50 – $1 per ride.
- Availability: Easily found on almost every major road.
- Downside: No fixed schedule, often overcrowded, and not the safest option for tourists.
- Tip for UK Travelers: If you’re new to the city, avoid minibuses unless traveling with a local guide.
2. ZUPCO Buses – Government-Run Transport
- Cost: Very cheap, starting from $0.30 per ride.
- Comfort Level: More organized than minibuses but still not as reliable as London’s public transport.
- Where to Find: Major bus terminals like Mbare and Copacabana.
- Tip for UK Travelers: Good for budget travelers, but buses can be crowded during peak hours.
Private Transport Options
If you prefer a safer and more comfortable way to get around Harare, consider these options:
3. Taxis – A Safer but Costlier Option
- Cost: Around $5 – $15 per ride, depending on distance.
- Where to Find: Taxi ranks or call a registered taxi service.
- Downside: No meters; fares need to be negotiated.
- Tip for UK Travelers: Always agree on a price before starting the ride to avoid overcharging.
4. Ride-Hailing Apps – The Best Option for Tourists
Just like Uber in London, Harare has ride-hailing apps that are safer than taxis. Some popular options include:
- Vaya Africa (similar to Uber)
- Hwindi
- Bolt (available in some areas)
Best Choice for UK Tourists: Vaya Africa is recommended for a smooth and secure travel experience.
Car Rentals – The Best for Independent Travelers
If you want to explore beyond Harare at your own pace, renting a car can be a great option.
5. Car Rental Services in Harare
- Cost: Around $40 – $80 per day (depends on the type of car).
- Driving Side: Like the UK, Zimbabwe drives on the left-hand side.
- License Requirements: A valid UK driving license is accepted, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
- Traffic & Road Safety:
- Roads in Harare city are well-maintained, but rural areas have potholes.
- Police checkpoints are common; always carry your documents.
- Avoid driving at night due to poor street lighting.
Tip for UK Travelers: If you’re not used to driving in less regulated conditions, hiring a driver might be a safer option.
Alternative Travel Methods
For those who want something unique or adventurous, here are a few other ways to travel:
6. Walking & Cycling – Not Recommended for Tourists
Unlike London, Harare isn’t pedestrian or cyclist-friendly.
- Downside: Many roads lack sidewalks, and traffic laws aren’t strictly followed.
- Best Areas to Walk:
- Harare Gardens
- Avondale Market
- Sam Levy’s Village
- Tip for UK Travelers: Walk only in well-populated and tourist-friendly areas.
7. Domestic Flights & Intercity Travel
If you plan to visit other cities in Zimbabwe, you may need:
- Fastjet or Air Zimbabwe for domestic flights.
- Luxury bus services like Intercape for long-distance travel.
Travel Safety & Tips for UK Visitors
- Use cash sparingly: Card payments aren’t widely accepted, so keep small cash amounts.
- Download offline maps: Google Maps doesn’t always show updated routes in Harare.
- Avoid night travel: Roads are poorly lit, and crime risks increase.
- Respect local customs: Zimbabweans are friendly, but always ask before taking photos of people or places.
Why Careful Planning is Essential for Your Harare Trip?
Traveling to Harare can be an exciting adventure, but a well-thought-out plan is crucial for a hassle-free experience. From choosing the right transportation to understanding local customs, proper research can save both time and money. Whether it’s booking reliable accommodation, arranging safe transport, or knowing the best areas to explore, having a structured plan will ensure that your trip is smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Navigating Harare’s transport system can be an exciting experience if you’re well-prepared. While public transport, such as minibuses and ZUPCO buses, is budget-friendly, it may not always be the safest or most convenient option for tourists. For UK visitors, ride-hailing apps like Vaya Africa and Bolt offer a more reliable way to get around, while private car rentals provide flexibility for exploring beyond Harare.
If you’re flying from London, booking cheap flights to Harare in advance can help cut costs and make your trip smoother. To ensure a hassle-free journey, plan ahead, stay updated on traffic conditions, and carry local currency for smaller transactions. For expert travel guidance, Outlook Travel UK offers useful insights to help you navigate the city with ease.