Your Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Apartments in Harare, ZW

Stepping off the plane into Harare’s warm, subtropical air, the hum of bustling city life fills your senses. The rich aromas of street-side vendors and fresh seasonal fruit mingle with the leafy boulevards stretching into the distance. You’re here to find the perfect apartment - a welcoming base where busy days exploring Victoria Falls waterfalls, Mbare markets, and Chapungu Sculpture Park lead to cosy nights soaking in authentic Zimbabwean vibes. Whether you crave modern luxury or a cosy local hideaway, the search for apartments in Harare, ZW promises surprises around every corner.

Why Choose an Apartment in Harare, ZW?

If you’re aiming for a stay that blends independence with comfort, apartments in Harare, ZW are your best bet. Unlike hotels, apartments give you a homely space to unwind, cook, and live like a local, without sacrificing the safety and convenience you crave. Having spent several months in Harare during a recent assignment, I found apartments perfectly suited my need for a quiet place to work during the day, with easy access to vibrant neighbourhood scenes in the evenings. Whether it’s the leafy greenery surrounding Borrowdale or the lively vibe in Avondale, an apartment lets you tailor your experience.

The diversity of apartments available means there’s something for every budget: chic serviced apartments that rival boutique hotels, affordable flats close to transport, or spacious homes ideal for families or longer stays. Many places come with essential amenities like Wi-Fi, secure parking, dedicated washing machines, and modern kitchens - far better value and privacy compared with cramped hotel rooms. What’s more, booking an apartment often means you’re steps away from authentic markets, cafes, and parks, perfect for soaking up everyday Harare life.

When I last stayed in a serviced apartment in Mount Pleasant, the balance of comfort, convenience, and cost made it easier to focus on my work while enjoying local hotspots nearby. Plus, the option to self-cater gave me flexibility I didn’t get with hotels. For budget-conscious travellers or families, cheap apartments in Harare, ZW offer a practical alternative that doesn’t skimp on local flavour or comfort.

In brief, apartments combine the best of all worlds: the freedom of your own space, the perks of modern amenities, and the chance to dive deep into Harare’s unique culture and lifestyle.

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Step-by-Step Booking Guide

1. Define Your Priorities: Decide on your budget, preferred neighbourhood, and required amenities (Wi-Fi, kitchen, parking, etc.).
2. Choose Booking Platforms: Start with Airbnb and Booking.com for variety; also check local agencies for exclusive deals.
3. Filter Listings: Use filters for price, ratings, amenities, and cancellation policies to narrow choices.
4. Read Reviews Carefully: Prioritise apartments with recent, positive reviews mentioning cleanliness, host responsiveness, and location.
5. Contact Hosts: Ask about security, transport options, and any special needs before booking.
6. Confirm Cancellation Terms: Opt for free or flexible cancellation policies to protect your plans.
7. Book Early: Especially in peak travel seasons (June-August), early booking ensures best choice and prices.
8. Prepare for Arrival: Confirm check-in details, transport options from airport, and local contact info.

Major Apartment Providers Compared

is among the top apartment providers in Harare, ZW, offering reliable and comfortable stays for both short and long visits.

Choosing between providers depends on your stay’s length, budget, and preference for formality. Airbnb offers unique homes with local hosts, while Booking.com boasts reliable serviced apartments ideal for convenience. Local agencies can unlock hidden gems off typical platforms, often with more lenient cancellation policies. Corporate serviced apartments cater to travellers wanting a hotel-like experience with apartment space, perfect for business or luxury stays.

Money-Saving Hacks

• Book apartments during off-peak seasons (September-November) to take advantage of lower nightly rates.
• Opt for longer stays with weekly or monthly discounts that often reduce total costs by 10-20%.
• Check local agencies directly; they sometimes have better deals than global platforms without extra fees.
• Use cashback or promo codes on booking sites, especially for early reservations.
• Consider apartments a little farther from city centre for cheaper nightly prices while using affordable local minibus taxis.

Living Like a Local & Neighbourhood Vibes

Harare’s neighbourhoods each offer a distinct flavour. Borrowdale combines leafy streets with modern malls and upmarket dining. Mount Pleasant charms with a diverse community and cultural centres. Avondale pulses with weekend markets and eclectic eateries, ideal if you want to mingle with locals.

When you book apartments in these areas, you gain insider access to daily rhythms - from early morning joggers to evening social gatherings. Shopping local markets like Mbare adds vibrant sensory experiences close to your temporary home. This lifestyle makes your stay more memorable and authentic.

Alternatives to traditional apartments, such as boutique hotels, aparthotels, and co-living spaces, serve different tastes. Boutique hotels offer personalised service and stylish design but usually come with higher price tags. Aparthotels blend hotel amenities with apartment space, great for those wanting self-catering plus concierge services. Co-living offers shared facilities and community events, perfect for digital nomads or solo travellers seeking connections.

Ultimately, apartments are the sweet spot for authentic daily life coupled with privacy and flexibility, while alternative lodging provides options if your preferences shift during the trip.

Check-in & Check-out Tips

Check-in times at apartments in Harare, ZW typically range from 2 pm to 4 pm, allowing hosts and cleaners time to prepare. Ensure you confirm your arrival window beforehand to avoid waiting or frustration. Many hosts provide flexible check-in options or meet you personally, so good communication is key.

At the airport, pre-book a shuttle or taxi to reach your apartment smoothly, especially after long flights. Sharing your arrival time with your host helps them coordinate your welcome. Some apartment buildings feature secure reception desks or gated access, so have a key code or contact number handy.

On departure, adhere closely to check-out times (usually 10 am to 11 am) to let cleaners prepare for the next guests. If your flight is later in the day, ask hosts about luggage storage options or safe places to relax nearby. Finally, leaving honest reviews contributes to the local booking community and helps future travellers choose wisely.

Sample 3-Day City Stay Itinerary

• Day 1: Explore downtown Harare’s landmarks including National Gallery, Africa Unity Square, and local cafes in Avondale.
• Day 2: Visit Mukuvisi Woodlands for nature walks, then unwind at Borrowdale’s shopping and dining strip.
• Day 3: Take a day trip to Great Zimbabwe Museum or the hillside village of Mbare for market immersion and crafts shopping.

Hidden Corners & Local Gems

Beyond the well-trodden paths, Harare has charming local spots that enrich your stay.

• Chapungu Sculpture Park: An open-air museum showcasing Zimbabwe’s renowned stone sculptures, perfect for art lovers.
• Sam Levy's Village: A peaceful shopping complex with cafes and artisan crafts, popular among locals.
• Avondale Flea Market: On weekends, this lively market bustles with food stalls, second-hand treasures, and live music.

Eight Mistakes Travellers Make

1. Booking apartments too close to noisy downtown areas without checking soundproofing.
2. Ignoring cancellation policies leading to costly last-minute changes.
3. Overlooking security features like gated entry or 24-hour reception.
4. Assuming Wi-Fi speed is reliable - always ask the host or check reviews.
5. Failing to factor in transport from airport - some neighbourhoods have limited public transit.
6. Booking without reading recent reviews; conditions can change quickly.
7. Not contacting hosts in advance to clarify check-in/out details.
8. Underestimating size and layout; photos may be misleading, so ask questions.

Your Ride, Your Way

Simple & Trusted Car Rentals by Shanya Afrika Car Rental

https://shanyaafrika.co.zw/

Frequently Asked Questions

Are apartments in Harare, ZW safe for solo travellers?

Yes, many apartments in safe neighbourhoods like Borrowdale and Mount Pleasant are secure and suitable for solo travellers. Always check security features and read reviews carefully.

Where can I find cheap apartments in Harare, ZW?

Look in suburbs such as Mbare or areas slightly outside the city centre. Booking platforms like Airbnb and local agencies often list budget-friendly options.

Do serviced apartments include housekeeping in Harare?

Many serviced apartments offer regular housekeeping, but the frequency varies. Confirm cleaning schedules with the provider before booking.

Is public transport accessible from apartment locations?

Most popular neighbourhoods have good minibus taxi services with easy airport connections, but service quality and schedules can vary. Arrange airport transfers in advance for hassle-free arrivals.

Ready to Book Your Perfect Harare Apartment?

Your ideal stay in Harare begins with the right apartment - whether you seek comfort, authenticity, or budget-savvy options. Share your experiences or questions below, and subscribe for more insider travel guides worldwide. Dive into the charm of Zimbabwe’s capital with confidence and local flair!