Things To Do
in Chitungwiza

Chitungwiza is a vibrant town located just southeast of Harare, Zimbabwe's capital. Known for its bustling markets and rich community life, it serves as a significant residential area for many urban workers. The town is characterized by a mix of residential neighborhoods and informal trading zones.

With its growing infrastructure, Chitungwiza offers a unique glimpse into the everyday life of Zimbabweans beyond the tourist hotspots.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Chitungwiza
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Chitungwiza Arts and Crafts Centre, where you can admire and purchase local artwork and handicrafts.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market for lunch and experience street food. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby residential areas to see the vibrant community life.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then take a leisurely walk through the town center to soak in the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the nearby Seke South wetlands for birdwatching and nature walks. Bring a camera for some stunning nature photography.

afternoon
:

Explore the local history at the Chitungwiza Museum, which provides insights into the town's heritage.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a bar or live music venue to enjoy traditional Zimbabwean music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5-$10
🚌Bus Fare$1
🛍️Souvenirs at Market$2-$20
🍺Local Beer$1-$2
🧃Bottled Water$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local community life.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining.
  • Access to beautiful natural areas for outdoor activities.
  • Limited infrastructure compared to larger cities.
  • Petty crime can be a concern in crowded areas.
  • Public transport may be less reliable.
  • "Mhoroi" - Hello
  • "Ndipeiwo mvura" - Please give me water
  • "Ndinokutendai" - Thank you
  • "Ndeipi?" - How are you?
  • "Ndiri kufara" - I am happy

Places to Visit in Chitungwiza

Visit one of these nice places.

Chitungwiza Arts Centre

A vibrant hub filled with local artwork and crafts, perfect for capturing colorful scenes.

Seke South Wetlands

A serene landscape with diverse birdlife, ideal for nature photography.

Chitungwiza Town Centre

Bustling with activity, this area showcases daily life and local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chitungwiza

Chitungwiza offers a delightful culinary experience with its diverse range of local dishes and street food options.

Chitungwiza Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sadza

A staple food made from maize meal, often served with vegetables and meat.

Must-Try!

Nyama

Grilled or stewed meat, typically beef or chicken, enjoyed with sadza.

Muriwo

Cooked leafy greens, commonly served as a side dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chitungwiza Market

A lively market where you can find fresh produce, local foods, and delicious street snacks.

Street Vendors

Try local favorites like biltong, samosas, and fried pastries from street vendors throughout the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chitungwiza has a tropical savanna climate, characterized by wet summers and dry winters. The rainy season runs from November to March, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters (June to August) are cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 5-10°C (41-50°F) at night. The best time to visit is during the cooler months of May to September.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders in the community.

Greetings

A firm handshake is common, and it’s polite to ask about someone's well-being.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially in rural areas and during cultural events.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Chitungwiza is generally safe, petty crime can occur, particularly in crowded areas. Visitors should remain vigilant, avoid displaying valuables, and travel in groups when possible. It's advisable to use reputable transportation services and avoid walking alone at night.

Tipping in Chitungwiza

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

It is customary to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, mobile money transactions are becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (November to February)

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rain, making it a good time to enjoy outdoor activities.

Autumn (March to May)

Milder temperatures are ideal for walking tours and photography.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler weather, especially in the evenings; pack warm clothing.

Spring (September to October)

A great time to visit for blooming flora and pleasant temperatures.

Nightlife Guide

Chitungwiza at Night

Chitungwiza has a lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars, taverns, and clubs where you can enjoy local music and dance. Many venues feature traditional Zimbabwean music, and some host live performances. The atmosphere is generally friendly and welcoming, with locals eager to share their culture with visitors.

Hiking in Chitungwiza

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chikurubi Forest

A nearby forest area offering trails for hiking and nature walks, with opportunities for birdwatching.

Lake Chivero

Located a short drive from Chitungwiza, this lakeside area offers scenic hiking trails and picnic spots.

Airports

How to reach Chitungwiza by plane.

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Chitungwiza, this is the main international airport serving Harare and the surrounding areas.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chitungwiza is moderately walkable, particularly in the town center where most amenities are located. Sidewalks may not always be well-maintained, so caution is advised. However, walking is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience daily life.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Shona People

The largest ethnic group in Zimbabwe, known for their rich cultural traditions and heritage.

Mixed Communities

Chitungwiza is home to diverse ethnic backgrounds, including Ndebele and immigrant communities from neighboring countries.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

The most popular sport in the region, with numerous local teams and community matches.

Netball

Widely played among women and girls in schools and communities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chitungwiza can be congested, particularly during peak hours as many residents commute to Harare. Public transportation options include minibuses and shared taxis, which are commonly used for travel within the town and to the capital. However, it's important to negotiate fares before getting in.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chitungwiza.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian, particularly with legumes and vegetables.

Gluten-Free

Sadza is gluten-free, but it is advisable to confirm ingredients when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Chitungwiza are basic, with some local clinics and hospitals providing primary care. For more serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to Harare, where there are better-equipped hospitals. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Zimbabwe

Read more in our Zimbabwe 2025 Travel Guide.

Zimbabwe Travel Guide