Planning a trip to Zimbabwe’s vibrant capital? Whether you’re returning to visit family, exploring Victoria Falls, or heading for business, flying from the UK to Harare doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With the right strategy, smart timing, and careful planning, you can save hundreds on airfare in 2025. This guide will walk you through the cheapest times to book, best airports to fly from, and how to make the most of Outlook Travel UK to find unbeatable flight deals.
Why Harare is a Popular Destination for UK Travellers
Harare has long been a major gateway to Zimbabwe, offering travellers a blend of African culture, hospitality, and growing business opportunities. For many UK travellers, it’s a trip rooted in personal connection or cultural discovery.
Here’s why people frequently fly from the UK to Harare:
- Family visits – Especially among the Zimbabwean diaspora in the UK.
- Business travel – Harare is Zimbabwe’s financial and commercial hub.
- Safari and nature tourism – Many begin their African safari in Zimbabwe.
- Cultural experiences – Rich in history, music, and art.
Best Months to Book Cheap Flights to Harare
Late February to Early May
This post-peak season window offers cooler weather in Zimbabwe and lower demand from UK travellers, often leading to more affordable fares.
Mid-August to October
Avoiding both UK summer and Zimbabwean holiday peaks, this period offers better pricing and less crowded airports.
Avoid Peak Travel Times
- Mid-December to early January – The Christmas season pushes prices up.
- Late June to early August – UK school holidays lead to fare increases.
- Easter week – Demand spikes due to family travel.
✈️ Tip: Booking 2–3 months before these off-peak seasons can help you lock in the best deals.
Ideal Days to Book and Fly
When to Book:
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays – These are the best days to book flights, as airlines often adjust pricing midweek.
- 8–12 weeks in advance – Booking in this window gives you a better chance at discounted rates.
When to Fly:
- Midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday) – Lower demand often means cheaper prices.
- Avoid weekend departures – Friday and Sunday are typically more expensive due to higher demand.
Best UK Airports for Budget Flights to Harare
Choosing your departure airport wisely can lead to significant savings:
- London Heathrow (LHR) – The widest range of carriers fly from here, with frequent one-stop options.
- London Gatwick (LGW) – Occasionally offers cheaper alternatives, particularly with Middle Eastern or African carriers.
- Birmingham (BHX) – Good for central UK travellers, and may have competitive one-stop flights.
- Manchester (MAN) – Ideal for those in northern England; check for offers via major hubs like Dubai or Doha.
✈️ Tip: Check multiple airports using Outlook Travel UK — even a regional airport could offer a more affordable route.
Best Airlines Offering Value Flights to Harare
One-stop flights are the most common — and usually the most cost-effective:
- Qatar Airways – Connects via Doha; reliable and often competitively priced.
- Emirates – Via Dubai, offering good connections and comfortable service.
- Ethiopian Airlines – A popular and budget-friendly option with a stop in Addis Ababa.
- Kenya Airways – Connects through Nairobi; increasingly used for UK–Harare routes.
- South African Airways – Via Johannesburg, occasionally offering discounted fares.
Tip: One-stop flights often save £100–£300 compared to rarer direct routes (if available). Use Outlook Travel UK to compare layover durations and ticket inclusions.
Cheapest Travel Periods for UK to Harare Flights
Based on past pricing trends and airline schedules:
Best Times to Travel:
- Late February to early May
- Mid-August to mid-October
- Late January, just after the holiday season
Times to Avoid:
- December holidays
- Easter week
- UK school summer holidays
How to Secure the Best Flight Deals
✅ Book 2–3 months ahead — especially if you’re flying in a busy travel window
✅ Use Outlook Travel UK to compare fares and filter by baggage, layovers, and price
✅ Set up price alerts — track fluctuations in fares over a few weeks
✅ Stay flexible — shifting dates or airports can make a big price difference
✅ Consider one-stop routes — they often cost significantly less
What to Expect on a UK to Harare Flight
Flights from the UK to Harare usually involve one stop and total between 13 to 20 hours of travel time. Here’s what to expect:
- In-flight meals and drinks are typically included on long-haul flights
- Checked baggage is often included, but always confirm in advance
- Layovers usually occur in major international hubs like Doha, Addis Ababa, or Johannesburg
- Jet lag is mild compared to Asia or Oceania, but plan for some recovery time on arrival
Pro Tip: Opt for layovers between 2–5 hours for a balance between rest and speed.
Final Thoughts
Flying from the UK to Harare on a budget is entirely possible with the right approach. Plan ahead, fly midweek, and choose off-peak travel months to unlock the best fares. With Outlook Travel UK, you can easily compare top airlines, track prices, and discover special deals tailored to UK–Africa travellers.
Whether you’re off to reconnect with loved ones, conduct business, or experience Zimbabwe’s culture and landscapes — smart booking strategies can help you get there without breaking the bank.