Harare is the vibrant capital city of Zimbabwe, known for its stunning green landscapes, friendly locals, and rich cultural history. It serves as the country's hub for commerce, arts, and politics.
Tips for expats in Harare
Visa requirements
Expats need a work or resident permit for staying long-term in Zimbabwe. Choose the right visa category and apply through the Immigration Department.
Language resources
English is widely spoken, but Shona and Ndebele are the official languages. Language schools and resources may be limited, so consider using private tutors or online language learning platforms.
Cost of living for expats in Harare
Housing
A room in a shared house costs around $150-250, a one-bed apartment $300-500, a two-bed apartment $400-700, and a three-plus bedroom house $600-1000 per month.
Groceries
A monthly grocery budget for a single person is approximately $150-250, but imported and specialty items may cost more.
Transportation
Monthly transportation costs, including fuel, public transport, and maintenance, can range from $50 to $100.
Climate in Harare
Harare experiences a subtropical highland climate with three main seasons: a warm, wet season (November to March), a cool, dry season (April to July), and a hot, dry season (August to October).
Job market in Harare
Key industries in Harare are finance, manufacturing, commerce, and tourism. Major employers include the government, banks, and multinational corporations.
Healthcare in Harare
Harare has several private hospitals and clinics offering excellent medical care, such as the Avenues Clinic and St. Anne's Hospital. Expats are advised to have international health insurance.
Transport in Harare
Harare's public transportation includes bus services, share taxis (kombis), and informal mini-buses. The major routes connect the suburbs to the city center and central business district.
Safety in Harare
Harare has areas with higher crime rates, but overall, safety improves with observing general precautions. Areas like Avondale, Borrowdale, and Mt. Pleasant tend to have lower crime rates.
Neighborhoods in Harare
Avondale
Avondale is a popular and safe neighborhood with beautiful gardens, local shops, and eateries.
Borrowdale
Borrowdale is an affluent suburb with spacious homes, gated communities, and easy access to shopping centers and entertainment venues.
Mt. Pleasant
Mt. Pleasant blends nature and urban living with lush landscapes, quality schools, and convenient access to the city center.
Attractions in Harare
National Gallery of Zimbabwe
This gallery showcases Zimbabwean contemporary and historic art, as well as traveling exhibitions.
Queen Victoria Museum
The Queen Victoria Museum features exhibits on natural history, local culture, and military history.
International Schools in Harare
Harare International School
Borrowdale
HIS is an independent, co-educational day school serving students from 3 to 19 years. The curriculum leads to the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program.
Arundel School
Mt. Pleasant
A semi-private school for girls, aged 5 to 18 years. It offers a British-style curriculum, leading to GCSEs and A Level Examinations.
