48 Hours

While there are many naysayers who believe there is little to do in and around Harare and even more who would struggle to come up with meaningful activities, I can think of at least 12 inexpensive ways to spend 48 hours in Harare. There are just enough options to entertain anybody.

1.     Visit Kopje - They may not have the best landscaping at the moment, but the view is certainly refreshing. After all, this site is free of charge.

2.       Watch a Movie at the Eastgate Ster Kenikor Cinema - Many people do not realize that there is still one movie house remaining in Harare, and for $3 per person you get the entertainment of a movie theatre for much less than movie houses around the world. Sure, the movies are a few months behind the American theatres, but they have 6 theatres so as they rotate you are sure to catch a movie that you have been wanting to see at some point.

3.       Take a stroll at the Village Walk - We often find ourselves at the Sam Levy's Village walking around in circles, rarely making it to the other end of the scene. The Village Walk is quite a unique experience and you will find cute little boutiques and shops with everything from garden tools to chocolate delights and lingerie.

4.       Drive up to Lake Chivero and take a boat ride for only $15 per person. You could also set up camp and have a braai with the serenity of the lake, it beats the dust and rowdiness of other local braai spots... You could also visit the bird sanctuary which is surprisingly entertaining and quite educational.

5.       Visit the Lion & Cheetah Park - Now I know many of us haven't been there since we were in primary school and haven't thought to visit in a while. I encourage you to take a drive in, we often forget how big and regal lions can be! If you are one of the brave ones, you can get into the cage with the "little" cubs at an extra charge. You can also take a horse ride through the game park to view the zebra, giraffes and other less-dangerous wild animals.

6.       Play or Watch a sport at the Harare Sports Club - We have a lot of international athletes who walk through the HSC grounds, if you are not one to actually pick up a tennis racquet or a cricket bat, you can grab a drink at the Keg and watch the pros do what they do best.

7.       Visit Domboshava - The walk up those rocks can be quite challenging so you may want to wear a comfy and sporty pair of shoes. The view of the valley is lovely and the caves themselves reminded me that the power cuts we experience so often in this day and age are not all that bad after all! A pleasant surprise, you may find, is the butchery on location where you can order your meat of choice and a salad, sadza and drinks for two for only $13! And you will be not leave hungry, their portions are extremely generous.

8.       Eat at a new restaurant - We often take for granted the number of quality restaurants we have in Harare, and the prices are very reasonable. Take a chance on a new restaurant, whether it's Portuguese, Traditional, Mexican or Italian, you can certainly find a place to feed your appetite.  Try Fish Monger in Avondale for all your seafood desires!

9.       Have a drink at a hotel - I know it sounds a bit strange, but it's certainly something different. The usual drink with friends on a Friday night at the village is fine as well, but take yourself out of the routine and head to Cresta, Rainbow Towers, Holiday Inn or Miekles on a Saturday afternoon and enjoy your drink of choice by the pool. You might find it quite relaxing... and for those of you wanting to get a tan, that's certainly the right set up for a little extra colour.

1-   Visit a Spa - So we all love a little pampering every now and again, even for the gentlemen, a deep massage on a Thursday after work could be just what the doctor ordered. There are plenty of spas available with quality products and zen facilities. The Oasis in Avondale is a one-stop-shop for mani/peti, massages, facials, waxing and more!

1-    Remember the Balancing Rocks? - The Zim dollar notes used to feature those amazing rocks, and they are right here in Harare. It's quite a mystery, how the rocks find themselves balancing for centuries and form these massive sculptures, it's definitely worth a visit!

1-    Mbizi Game Park - Take a day trip to the game park where you can go canoeing, horse riding, eat at their restaurant and so much more. This is a good place to spend a whole day because they do have a variety of activities for any crowd, corporate team building, couples retreats, or just friends having a good time.

There are several more activities to be discovered in and around Harare as this and other local magazines are highlighting. Send us all your favourite spots and activities and we'll keep bringing you new adventures to add to your to-do list!

~Because I enjoy my City!