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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

National Botanic Gardens Harare
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene oasis in Harare, offering diverse flora, peaceful picnic spots, and a vital herbarium for botanical research.
"A beautiful place that needs more love to flourish."

🎯 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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
Various lawns and shaded areas
Find your perfect spot for a relaxing picnic amidst lush greenery. Ideal for unwinding.

Herbarium Research Center
Herbarium building
Explore a vast collection of 500,000 plant specimens, a vital resource for botanical research.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Green Escape
Plan Your Visit Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, parking is generally available at the National Botanic Gardens, though it can get busy during peak times.
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.
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!
Yes, most taxi services in Harare will be able to drop you off at the main entrance of the National Botanic Gardens.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very reasonable, typically around $2 per person, making it an affordable outing for everyone.
Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not widely available, but the general entry fee is quite low.
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.
Currently, tickets are typically purchased at the entrance upon arrival. There isn't a widely advertised online booking system.
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.
🎫 🌿 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.
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.
With its lush greenery and diverse plant life, the gardens can be a good spot for birdwatching, though it's not its primary focus.
While some facilities have been closed in the past, the restaurant has been restored. Toilets are generally available.
Typically, pets are not allowed in botanical gardens to protect the plant collections. It's best to leave your furry friends at home.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! The gardens offer beautiful scenery for personal photos and even professional shoots.
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.
Look for areas with dense foliage, interesting tree formations, and any flowering plants. The restored restaurant area also offers a nice backdrop.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and gardens due to privacy and safety concerns. It's highly unlikely to be permitted.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best natural light, creating softer shadows and a more pleasant atmosphere for your photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🧘 Introverts Seeking Solitude
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Haven for Flora Enthusiasts
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.
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.
Picnics and Peaceful Escapes
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.
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.

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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit