12 hours in Harare

Hi all

Hi Mike,

Zimbabwe is a little bit unstable at the moment, but Harare should be safe. Keep in mind that petrol ands diesel shortage are permanent in Zimbabwe, so that if you decide to visit Harare, make sure that you'll find a lift to bring you back at the airport !

Andre Lefevre, SAM MOBOMBO SAFARI'S Ltd www.sam.to

Michael

What hours of the day will you be there?

Harare has generally been safe. The political temperature has been rising as presidential elections, scheduled for March, approach. If you are unlucky enough to end up in the middle of a political rally, then things might be dangerous. Generally, it is pretty safe, apart from the obvious warnings against bag-snatchers and pickpockets. Even there, Harare is safer than most places.

The airport is about 30 minutes drive from the city centre, and I don't know of regular bus transport. A taxi will not be expensive, especially since the US dollar buys a ton of local currency (around 250-300 Zim $). I could give you the telephone number of a local taxi operator if you need one. He will also be able to give you good local advice on the day.

I can't think of much to see in Harare itself, apart from just a tourist look at the city itself. If you're looking for Africa curios, then central Harare is a great place, and you can get really good bargains. It depends where else you're going. The new airport building is very good by African standards, and twelve hours there will be much more pleasant than many other African airports (other than Johannesburg, which is really great). The Zimbabwe beer is really good, so try all the local varieties.

Peter