Trees
1 / 10

National Botanic Gardens Harare

3.9
·675 reviews·Harare, Zimbabwe

A serene oasis in Harare, offering diverse flora, peaceful picnic spots, and a vital herbarium for botanical research.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Trees

National Botanic Gardens Harare

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene oasis in Harare, offering diverse flora, peaceful picnic spots, and a vital herbarium for botanical research.

3.9
(675 reviews)

"A beautiful place that needs more love to flourish."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Affordable Entry

Entry is just $2 per person, making it a budget-friendly escape. :moneybag:

🌿 Nature Lover's Paradise

Perfect for peaceful walks and appreciating diverse flora. :evergreen_tree:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Diverse Plant Collections

Diverse Plant Collections

Throughout the gardens

Wander through a rich tapestry of native and exotic trees and plants. A true haven for plant enthusiasts.

Peaceful Picnic Spots

Peaceful Picnic Spots

Various lawns and shaded areas

Find your perfect spot for a relaxing picnic amidst lush greenery. Ideal for unwinding.

Herbarium Research Center

Herbarium Research Center

Herbarium building

Explore a vast collection of 500,000 plant specimens, a vital resource for botanical research.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Green Escape

Discover a peaceful oasis in Harare! The National Botanic Gardens offer a serene escape with diverse flora. While beautiful, some areas may need a little TLC, so manage expectations for pristine conditions. It's a great spot for quiet reflection or a family picnic.

Plan Your Visit Wisely

Entry is a budget-friendly $2 per person, making it an accessible outing. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day. While some facilities might be closed, the natural beauty remains the star. Pack water and snacks for a comfortable experience.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Good for picnics and family outings
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Truth is, it takes effort to look this good. 😉✨ Meet Jeremy, one of many faces who show up bright and early to make sure everything is in shape at the National Orchid Garden before visitors arrive. This year, we’re celebrating a series of milestones at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, including 10 years since the Gardens was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and 30 years of the National O...
nparksbuzz
1.1K likes • 100.5K views

🎯 Affordable Entry

Entry is just $2 per person, making it a budget-friendly escape. :moneybag:

🌿 Nature Lover's Paradise

Perfect for peaceful walks and appreciating diverse flora. :evergreen_tree:

Blossoms are blooming across Dublin! 🌸​ Some of our fave spots to snap cherry blossom selfies: ✨ Herbert Park​ ✨ Trinity College ✨ National Botanic Gardens​ ✨ St Stephen’s Green​ ✨ Marsh’s Library​ ✨ Phoenix Park​ SAVE for later!​ #LoveDublin @visit_trinity @nationalbotanicgardens_ireopw @marshslibrary #CherryBlossoms #BlossomSeason #VisitDublin #ThingsToDoInDublin
visitdublin
0 likes • 46.8K views
reddit.com

CALLING ALL HARARIAN INTROVERTS: THIS BROTHER NEEDS HELP!!

🧺 Ideal for Picnics

Plenty of green space for a relaxing picnic. Bring your own basket! :sandwich:

📸 Great Photo Ops

Beautiful greenery provides a stunning backdrop for photoshoots. :camera:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Affordable Entry

Entry is just $2 per person, making it a budget-friendly escape. :moneybag:

🌿 Nature Lover's Paradise

Perfect for peaceful walks and appreciating diverse flora. :evergreen_tree:

🧺 Ideal for Picnics

Plenty of green space for a relaxing picnic. Bring your own basket! :sandwich:

📸 Great Photo Ops

Beautiful greenery provides a stunning backdrop for photoshoots. :camera:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Paths

Signposting could be better, so explore and discover hidden gems. :hiking_boot:

What Travellers Say

3.9
(675 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the National Botanic Gardens Harare to be a peaceful and beautiful escape with diverse plant life and affordable entry. While many appreciate the tranquility and picnic-friendly atmosphere, some note that the gardens could benefit from more consistent maintenance and better path signposting. The restored restaurant is a welcome addition, enhancing the visitor experience.

"The place is really nice. It has many trees and plants. Good for picnics.
The place just needs some love and people who can give us a tour so that we can experience a walk in that Botanical garden and see more plants. Tickets $2 per person."

Tariro Machingauta

"Great place to be for someone seeking peacefulness or plant lovers."

fadzailc

"Very interesting plants and trees, good walk overall. The facilities were on the decline apart from the toilets, all else was closed. Not very good signposting of the paths in the gardens either. $2 per person entry ticket. Overall a beautiful place that needs more love to flourish."

Spiros Aliprantis

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Diverse plant collections
Affordable entry fee

What People Dislike

Needs more maintenance
Inconsistent upkeep
Poor signposting

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The National Botanic Gardens are located in Harare. You can reach them by car, taxi, or local transport. It's advisable to use a GPS or map application for precise directions within the city. Reddit

Yes, parking is generally available at the National Botanic Gardens, though it can get busy during peak times. Reddit

While specific routes may vary, local buses or taxis are common ways to navigate Harare. It's best to check with local transport providers for the most current routes. Reddit

The gardens are quite spread out. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a good walk. Signposting can be a bit sparse, so embrace exploration! Reddit

Yes, most taxi services in Harare will be able to drop you off at the main entrance of the National Botanic Gardens. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is very reasonable, typically around $2 per person, making it an affordable outing for everyone. Reddit

Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not widely available, but the general entry fee is quite low. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but generally, the gardens are open during daylight hours. It's recommended to check locally or call ahead for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Currently, tickets are typically purchased at the entrance upon arrival. There isn't a widely advertised online booking system. Reddit

The herbarium is primarily a research facility, but access might be possible for educational purposes or with prior arrangement. Inquire at the garden's administration. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

You'll find a diverse collection of native Zimbabwean plants as well as exotic species. It's a great place to learn about local flora. Reddit

Some visitors have expressed a desire for guided tours to better understand the plants. It's worth inquiring at the entrance if any informal guides are available. Reddit

With its lush greenery and diverse plant life, the gardens can be a good spot for birdwatching, though it's not its primary focus. Reddit

While some facilities have been closed in the past, the restaurant has been restored. Toilets are generally available. Reddit

Typically, pets are not allowed in botanical gardens to protect the plant collections. It's best to leave your furry friends at home. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! The gardens offer beautiful scenery for personal photos and even professional shoots. Reddit

While personal photography is fine, professional photoshoots might require special permission or a fee. It's advisable to inquire at the garden's administration beforehand. Reddit

Look for areas with dense foliage, interesting tree formations, and any flowering plants. The restored restaurant area also offers a nice backdrop. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and gardens due to privacy and safety concerns. It's highly unlikely to be permitted. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best natural light, creating softer shadows and a more pleasant atmosphere for your photos. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The National Botanic Gardens Harare offers a wonderful opportunity for families to connect with nature. It's a great place for kids to explore and learn about different plants and trees in a safe, open environment. The spacious lawns are perfect for children to run around and enjoy a picnic. Reddit

While the gardens are beautiful, it's worth noting that some areas might require extra supervision for very young children due to the natural terrain. The entrance fee is very affordable, making it a budget-friendly outing for the whole family. Pack some snacks and drinks, and enjoy a day of discovery and fun amidst the greenery. Reddit

🧘 Introverts Seeking Solitude

For introverts looking for a quiet escape, the National Botanic Gardens Harare is an excellent choice. As one Reddit user suggested, it's a perfect spot for those who don't fancy loud, crowded environments. You can find peaceful corners to read, reflect, or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature without societal pressure. Reddit

The gardens offer a chance to immerse yourself in the natural world at your own pace. While it can get busier on weekends, weekday visits are generally very quiet, allowing for a truly serene experience. It's a place where you can recharge and enjoy solitude amidst beautiful flora. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The National Botanic Gardens Harare provides a stunning natural canvas for photographers. The diverse plant life, mature trees, and open green spaces offer a wealth of photographic opportunities. Whether you're into macro shots of flowers or wider landscape compositions, you'll find plenty to capture. Reddit

Early morning and late afternoon light are ideal for capturing the best shots, creating a soft, warm glow. While personal photography is welcomed, professional shoots might require prior arrangements. The gardens are also a popular spot for event photography, including weddings and school events, due to their picturesque setting. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Haven for Flora Enthusiasts

The National Botanic Gardens Harare is a treasure trove for anyone interested in plants. It boasts a significant collection of native Zimbabwean flora, allowing visitors to discover the diverse plant life of the region. Beyond the indigenous species, you'll also find a variety of exotic plants, showcasing a broader spectrum of botanical diversity. The gardens are a living library, offering a peaceful environment to learn and appreciate the natural world. Reddit

While the gardens are beautiful, some visitors note that they could benefit from more consistent maintenance. Weeds and invasive bushes have been mentioned as a challenge in certain areas, impacting the pristine appearance of some exotic plant collections. However, the core beauty of the diverse trees and plants remains, offering a valuable experience for plant lovers. Reddit

For those seeking deeper botanical knowledge, the herbarium within the gardens houses an impressive collection of approximately 500,000 plant specimens. This facility is crucial for research and conservation efforts, underscoring the garden's importance beyond its aesthetic appeal. Reddit

Picnics and Peaceful Escapes

The National Botanic Gardens Harare is frequently highlighted as an ideal location for peaceful picnics and a serene escape from the urban bustle. Visitors often praise the ample green spaces and the tranquil atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for relaxation and unwinding. It's a place where you can spread out a blanket, enjoy your meal, and simply soak in the natural surroundings. Reddit

Many reviewers mention the gardens as a perfect venue for nature walks and quiet contemplation. The sheer amount of greenery provides a refreshing backdrop, and the relatively low entry fee makes it an accessible option for a day out. Despite some areas needing more attention, the overall ambiance remains conducive to a peaceful retreat. Reddit

Beyond personal relaxation, the gardens are also recommended as a venue for large events and photoshoots. The natural beauty offers a picturesque setting, and the restored restaurant adds to its potential as an event space. This versatility makes the gardens a valuable community asset for both leisure and special occasions. Reddit

You may also like