Things To Do
in Ruwa

Ruwa is a picturesque town located just outside Harare, Zimbabwe, known for its beautiful landscapes and residential charm. It serves as a peaceful retreat from the bustling capital, featuring green spaces and a close-knit community atmosphere. The town is well-connected to major roads, making it easily accessible for visitors.

With its mix of modern amenities and traditional culture, Ruwa offers a unique experience for both locals and tourists alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Ruwa
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant culture and fresh produce of the region.

afternoon
:

Head to the Ruwa River for a relaxing picnic and some bird watching, enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional Zimbabwean cuisine, followed by a stroll through the town center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the nearby Ruwa Park for a morning walk or jog, taking in the serene environment.

afternoon
:

Explore local art galleries and craft shops to appreciate the talents of local artisans.

evening
:

Catch a cultural performance at a community center, showcasing the rich traditions of Zimbabwe.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Local bus fare$1
🛒Grocery shopping (weekly)$30
🏨Hotel (per night)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and parks.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Close proximity to Harare for day trips.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some areas may be underserved in amenities.
  • Transport options can be sparse outside of main roads.
  • "Mangwanani" - Good morning
  • "Ndiri kufara" - I am happy
  • "Ndatenda" - Thank you
  • "Unogara kupi?" - Where do you live?
  • "Tiri kuenda" - We are going

Places to Visit in Ruwa

Visit one of these nice places.

Ruwa River

A beautiful spot perfect for capturing nature, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Local Markets

Vibrant scenes filled with colorful produce and lively interactions among vendors.

Ruwa Park

A scenic park featuring lush greenery and serene walking paths, ideal for outdoor photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ruwa

Ruwa offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes and flavors that reflect the rich culture of Zimbabwe.

Ruwa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sadza

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

Must-Try!

Biltong

Cured and dried meat, typically beef or game, seasoned with spices.

Nhopi

Pumpkin puree mixed with groundnuts, a delicious side dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ruwa Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ruwa experiences a subtropical highland climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers (November to March) are warm, with temperatures averaging between 25-30°C (77-86°F) and frequent afternoon rain. Winters (June to August) are cooler, with daytime temperatures around 15-20°C (59-68°F) and chilly nights dropping to around 5°C (41°F). Spring and autumn see mild weather, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common; addressing people by their titles is respectful.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or cultural sites.

Hospitality

If offered food or drink, it's polite to accept, even if just a small taste.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ruwa is generally safe for visitors, but it's crucial to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and keep valuables secure. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Ruwa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of 10% is appreciated in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some places accept mobile payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (November - March)

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rains; perfect for outdoor activities.

Autumn (April - May)

Cooler temperatures and clear skies, great for sightseeing.

Winter (June - August)

Chilly mornings and evenings, but daytime is pleasant; bring warm clothing.

Spring (September - October)

Mild temperatures and blooming flora, ideal for nature lovers.

Nightlife Guide

Ruwa at Night

Ruwa's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. Most of the activity revolves around local bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy live music and socialize with the community. However, there are also occasional cultural events and performances that provide a deeper insight into Zimbabwean traditions.

Hiking in Ruwa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Goromonzi Mountain Trail

A challenging hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Kombi Hill Trail

A moderate trail that winds through scenic areas, ideal for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Ruwa by plane.

Harare International Airport

Located about 20 km from Ruwa, this airport serves international and domestic flights, making it the primary gateway for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ruwa has a relatively walkable layout, especially in the town center where most amenities are clustered. Sidewalks are present, but condition may vary. Walking is a pleasant way to explore local markets and parks, although some areas may require caution due to vehicle traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Shona People

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

Ndebele People

Another significant group, known for their distinctive art and cultural practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Zimbabwe, with local teams often playing in nearby Harare.

Cricket

Cricket has a significant following in Zimbabwe, and local matches can be found in Harare.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ruwa is relatively light compared to larger cities, making it easy to navigate. Public transportation options include minibuses and shared taxis, which are affordable but can be crowded during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ruwa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to check the menu or ask for modifications.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; inform the staff of your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Ruwa is modest, with a few clinics and pharmacies available. For serious medical issues, it is recommended to travel to Harare, where larger hospitals and specialists are located. It's advisable to have travel health insurance.

Discover Zimbabwe

Read more in our Zimbabwe 2025 Travel Guide.

Zimbabwe Travel Guide