When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Harare?
The best and cheapest time for Harare flights is to travel between March and May when prices are lower but the temperature is still pleasant and the weather is dry. June through November is the most popular time to travel. The summer months still have pleasant weather, but it can also be wet.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to Harare?
The best time to book cheap flights to Harare is two to three months in advance. Last-minute flights and flexible dates can help you save on costs. When travelling, keep in mind that due to Harare’s location in the southern hemisphere very close to the equator it only has two seasons. Although it is generally sunny all year round, November through May is the rainy season, while June to October is considered the dry season.
Flying to Robert Gabriel International Airport (HRE)
Formerly known as Harare International Airport, Robert Gabriel International Airport (HRE) is the largest airport in Zimbabwe. It is about 13.5 kilometres away from Harare.
You will find Harare flights from all across the UK. These depart from major airports such as Heathrow Airport, Gatwick Airport, Manchester Airport, Edinburgh Airport and George Best Belfast City Airport, with flights from popular airlines like British Airways, Egypt Air, Emirates Airways, Kenya Airways, Lufthansa and South African Airways. Although none offer direct flights, you will find return flights with one or more stopovers in cities like Dubai, Frankfurt, Nairobi and Birmingham. Most single-stop Harare flights depart from London’s Heathrow Airport and are available from British Airways and South African Airways.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
Robert Gabriel International Airport is a single-terminal international airport, which opened in 2000 and mainly serves domestic return flights. The airport has three levels and includes basic amenities for travellers such as ATMs, currency exchange, luggage lockers, luggage wrapping, medical services, disability services, a pharmacy, post office, restaurants, shops, a duty-free shop, smoking areas and free Wi-Fi. HRE is open 24 hours a day, although the shops and restaurants close by 10pm. Those who are aviation enthusiasts may be interested in taking a tour of the airport, which can be arranged at the Airport Manager Office.
Getting to the City from Robert Gabriel International Airport (HRE)
There are only two means of transport to get from HRE to Harare city centre, which are by shuttle bus or taxi. Shuttle buses can be booked in advance to pick you up from the airport and take you to your accommodation. Some hotels offer their own shuttle services so be sure to ask in advance. Taxis offer fixed prices and are a quick way of travelling into the city. They are located in the ground transport area. GTAXI is a popular taxi-booking app in Zimbabwe, which works like a ride-sharing app and allows you to pay in cash.
Why visit Harare?
Although Harare boasts tall modern skyscrapers and a bustling cityscape, it doesn’t take you long to come across the natural world. Wild Is Life is an animal sanctuary near the airport where you can interact with local animal species and learn more about their rescue operations. Four kilometres from the city centre you’ll find the National Botanic Gardens, which offer a wide range of native plant life and trees, as well as exotic plants.
Experience the artistic side of Harare at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, which features a mix of contemporary local and international art. The Chapungu Sculpture Park showcases local sculptures and art while providing the perfect place for a walk. There are plenty of places to shop in the city, from the inexpensive Avondale flea market to the European village-inspired Sam Levy’s Village shopping centre. Visit the National Heroes' Acre that overlooks the city and commemorates the lives of liberation war fighters.
Zimbabwe Visa Requirements
Before travelling to Harare, you will need a visa. Visas can be acquired either from the Zimbabwean Embassy in London or on arrival in HRE. You can also apply for one online before departing, but most travellers pay on arrival. Payment must be made in cash. Zimbabwe’s main currency is the US dollar, although other currencies like pounds are also accepted. Bond notes are considered legal tender. As of now, you can’t withdraw money using an international bank card so be sure to carry cash with you before leaving. By law, foreign currency must be exchanged with officially licensed dealers like banks.
