Harare, the vibrant capital of Zimbabwe, offers a diverse and exciting shopping experience for locals and international travellers alike. From bustling flea markets to high-end shopping malls, the city caters to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re on the hunt for traditional crafts, fashion, electronics, or unique souvenirs, shopping in Harare promises unforgettable finds and a taste of local culture.
10 best places to go shopping in Harare
1. Sam Levy’s Village
Located in the upmarket suburb of Borrowdale, Sam Levy’s Village is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Harare. Designed to resemble an English village, it features a mix of high-end boutiques, international retail chains, coffee shops, and supermarkets. It’s a top pick for those seeking branded clothing, luxury items, or a relaxed shopping atmosphere.
Popular for: Fashion, dining, gifts
Location: Borrowdale
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a relaxed vibe
2. Avondale Shopping Centre
Avondale Shopping Centre is a favorite among both locals and tourists for its central location and variety of retail options. From bookstores and clothing shops to electronics and fast food outlets, this mall offers a bit of everything. Right next to it is the Avondale Flea Market, where you can bargain for crafts, handmade jewellery, and African fabrics.
Popular for: Books, electronics, crafts
Location: Avondale
Best Time to Visit: Weekends for market activity
3. Greenwood Park Flea Market
For those who love authentic and budget-friendly shopping, Greenwood Park Flea Market is a must-visit. This open-air market showcases a vibrant selection of handmade goods, including sculptures, leather products, wooden carvings, and traditional clothing. It’s a fantastic place to experience local art and interact with Zimbabwean artisans.
Popular for: Handicrafts, souvenirs, traditional art
Location: East of the city centre
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours for best selection
4. Arundel Village
Located in Mount Pleasant, Arundel Village is a peaceful and classy shopping area featuring fashion boutiques, beauty salons, and specialty stores. It’s ideal for travellers who want a quieter, more refined shopping experience. There are also cafes and restaurants for those looking to relax after some retail therapy.
Popular for: High-end fashion, beauty services
Location: Mount Pleasant
Best Time to Visit: Midweek mornings
5. Eastgate Centre
Situated in Harare’s CBD, Eastgate Centre is a blend of commercial and retail spaces housed in one of Zimbabwe’s most eco-friendly buildings. It’s great for shoppers looking for both office essentials and general merchandise. The centre also includes grocery shops, clothing stores, and fast food chains.
Popular for: Affordable shopping, central location
Location: City Centre
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds
6. Borrowdale Brooke Shopping Centre
A sleek and modern mall, Borrowdale Brooke Shopping Centre is another prime destination for upscale shopping in Harare. Featuring branded stores, pharmacies, banks, and restaurants, this mall is clean, secure, and well-maintained—making it ideal for family outings and international visitors.
Popular for: Grocery shopping, banking, branded stores
Location: Borrowdale
Best Time to Visit: Early evenings
7. Longcheng Plaza
If you’re looking for electronics, home goods, and bulk purchases, Longcheng Plaza is a great option. It is a massive shopping complex that caters to both wholesale and retail buyers. There’s also a food court and entertainment options, including a bowling alley and arcade—making it popular among families.
Popular for: Electronics, appliances, family outings
Location: Belvedere
Best Time to Visit: Weekends for family-friendly events
8. Mbare Musika Market
One of the oldest and most traditional shopping experiences in Harare, Mbare Musika is not for the faint-hearted but is rich in culture and color. Here, you’ll find local produce, handcrafted items, and everyday goods at unbeatable prices. This market offers a true taste of Harare’s bustling street life.
Popular for: Fruits, vegetables, baskets, cultural immersion
Location: Mbare
Best Time to Visit: Early morning before it gets crowded
9. Joina City Mall
Joina City is a multi-story commercial complex in the heart of Harare. It’s a blend of modern office spaces and trendy retail stores. The mall is great for people looking for clothing, mobile phones, cosmetics, and accessories. Its central location also makes it easy to access from most hotels.
Popular for: Fashion, beauty, electronics
Location: CBD
Best Time to Visit: Lunch hour for shopping and quick bites
10. Village Walk at Borrowdale Race Course
A fairly new addition to Harare’s shopping scene, Village Walk offers a fusion of luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment. Designed for the modern shopper, it includes fashion outlets, premium restaurants, and wellness centres. Ideal for a day out with friends or couples.
Popular for: Upscale shopping, fine dining
Location: Borrowdale
Best Time to Visit: Evenings and weekends
Final Tips for Shopping in Harare
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Local currency: Zimbabwe uses both USD and ZWL. USD is widely accepted, especially in high-end shopping areas.
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Bargaining: Don’t be shy to bargain in local markets—it’s part of the experience.
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Transport: Plan your shopping route with safe transport or opt for hotels that provide shuttle services.
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