Harare, Zimbabwe

Harare is the capital and biggest city in Zimbabwe. Covering 960.6 sq km (370.9 sq mi) on the north-central part of the country, it has a population of 1.6 million people within a metropolitan area that contains 2.8 million inhabitants.

The city was founded in 1890 by settlers organized by Cecil Rhodes, and was originally called Fort Salisbury, in honor of the then British prime minister. The name was later changed to Salisbury, and in 1935 was given city status. From 1953 to 1963 Salisbury served as the capital of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland. Its name was changed to Harare on 18 April, 1982.

Harare suffered from Zimbabwe's depressed economy particularly from 1999 to 2008. The economic difficulties which brought hyperinflation are seen in the general deterioration of city infrastructure and municipal services. Since 2009 the city has gradually been on the rebound though financial difficulties persist.

Coming to Harare, you can visit some of the cultural and historical sights. Its botanic garden covering 68 hectares has some 900 different species of plants and trees from across the country. Also within the city is the Mukuvisi Woodlands, 277 hectares of preserved natural woodland that is home to a rich variety of wildlife.

Among the things to buy in Harare include colorful textile of African motifs and tribal sculptures. When making a purchase, be careful as shops have a tendency of overcharging you if they know you are a tourist.

Downtown Harare, Zimbabwe
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Harare_secondst.jpg
Author: Damien Farrell

Visiting Harare

The Harare Airport serves as the international gateway for Zimbabwe. Many of the flights to Harare originate from Johannesburg.

Places of Interest in Harare

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