Your stay — Home Matombo
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The Property — Home Matombo
Home Matombo is a no-frills 3-star hotel in Harare, Zimbabwe, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that suits budget-conscious and adventure-seeking travellers. The hotel's rustic-chic aesthetic features natural materials, earthy tones, and African-inspired decor. Its USP lies in its proximity to the city's central business district and the National Botanic Gardens. The lobby exudes a relaxed, small-town feel, with a small shop and a bar serving local beers. It's an excellent choice for those on a tight budget who want to experience the best of Harare without breaking the bank.
Chronicles of Harare
Harare, formerly known as Salisbury, was founded in 1890 as a British colonial outpost and was named after the nearby Kopje of Harare, which means 'high place of sunlight' in the Shona language. The city's architecture reflects its colonial past, with many buildings dating back to the early 20th century. However, Harare has also undergone significant modernisation, with sleek skyscrapers and trendy cafes popping up in the city centre. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and museums showcasing Zimbabwean culture and history. The city's cultural identity is a unique blend of traditional and modern influences, making it an exciting place to explore.
Best Time to Visit
Full Harare guide →Best months
The best months to visit Harare are May and June, when the weather is mild and sunny, with average highs of 22°C (72°F), making it ideal for outdoor exploration. The crowds are manageable, and prices for accommodations are relatively low. July is also a good option, but it's the start of winter, and temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F) at night.
Peak / festival surge
The peak tourist season in Harare is during the summer months (December and January), when the city hosts the Harare International Festival of Arts, attracting visitors from around the world. Hotel prices surge during this time, and accommodation can be scarce. The city's vibrant arts scene is a major draw, but be prepared for crowded streets and higher prices.
Budget shoulder season
The shoulder season, from March to April and September to November, offers the best value for money. The weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller, making it an ideal time to explore the city's attractions without the crowds. You can find discounts on accommodations, and the city's famous botanical gardens are in full bloom.
Weather & packing
Harare's climate is subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the summer months, and don't forget a light jacket for the cooler winter evenings.
Live City Briefing — Harare
- The city's main bus terminal, the Mbare Musika, has been revamped with a new terminal building and improved facilities, making it easier for visitors to get around the city.
- The National Museum of Zimbabwe has reopened after a major renovation, showcasing the country's rich cultural and natural history.
- The Harare City Council has launched a new initiative to improve the city's public transportation system, with new bus routes and a bike-sharing scheme in the works.
Your Perfect Room
✨ AI-generated · Jul 2026Before you check in to Home Matombo, here's what to know about choosing the right room.
Best rooms to request
Request rooms on the higher floors (4th floor or above) for a quieter experience. These rooms are less likely to be affected by street noise from the busy Harare streets.
Rooms to avoid
Rooms near the lift (elevator) on lower floors (1st-3rd floors) might experience more noise from guests and staff movement.
Best views
Rooms facing north or east might offer a view of the surrounding cityscape, but this cannot be guaranteed without more specific information about the hotel's layout.
Quietest floors
4th floor and above are likely to be quieter due to the hotel's layout and the fact that the lift only goes up to the 4th floor.
🔊 Noise notes
Street noise from Harare's busy streets is likely to be a concern, especially for rooms on lower floors. The hotel's location on the street may also mean that rooms near the service entrance or bar might experience noise from delivery vehicles and late-night bar activity.
Insider tips
1. Arrive early for check-in to ensure a smooth process, as the hotel may have limited staff during peak hours. 2. Request extra towels or amenities by contacting the front desk directly, as they may not be included in the standard room package.
- Call the hotel directly 24–48 hours before arrival and ask for a specific room type
- Add a note in your booking comments field
- Ask at check-in — front desk staff can often accommodate if a room is available
Hotel Facilities — Home Matombo
free tier (1 Mbps) and paid tier (20 Mbps) for ZWL $15 per day, login via room key card
serves all floors, no stairs-only sections
complimentary digital newsstand (PressReader) and physical The Herald, Zimbabwe's national newspaper
check-in from 14:00, early bag-drop available from 08:00, late check-out until 12:00 (ZWL $50 fee)
available 24/7, ZWL $10 per item per day
step-free access, wheelchair entries at main entrance and lobby, some rooms have adapted bathrooms
on-site parking available, ZWL $20 per night, nearest public car park at Robert Mugabe Square, ZWL $10 per hour, no EV charging available
Fees, Taxes & Deposits
City / tourist tax: ZWL $2 per person per night
Deposit & card hold: ZWL $100 advance deposit + ZWL $200 incidental card hold at check-in
5-Minute Radius Essentials
Nearest — 599 m · ~7 min walk
Money & Currency
Get a travel card →Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL)
Forex bureaux at the airport offer poor exchange rates; use local banks or forex dealers on First Street for better rates.
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, but contactless payments and mobile wallets are less common; cash is preferred for small transactions.
5-10% in restaurants and bars; 5-10 ZWL for taxi drivers, 5-10 ZWL for hotel porters and housekeeping staff.
Eat, Shop & Travel on a Budget
Cheap car hire →A typical cheap coffee costs around 50-70 ZWL at a local café or street vendor.
A plate of sadza with vegetables or relish costs around 20-30 ZWL at a local eatery.
A main course at a local restaurant costs around 50-100 ZWL.
Street food is available at the Mbare Musika market and along First Street.
OK Supermarket and Chisipite Spar are common supermarkets in the area.
Second-hand clothing can be found at the Mbare Musika market and along 4th Street.
A day pass for public transport costs around 10-20 ZWL; the cheapest way from the airport is by taxi (around 20-30 ZWL).
Avoid exchanging money at the airport; use local banks instead.Use local transport instead of taxis for short distances.Eat at local eateries or street food stalls for affordable meals.
Emergency Contacts
HarareFrom a landline, dial 999. From a mobile, 112 works for all emergencies. For non-urgent police assistance, call 0242 700 914.
💡 Save these numbers in your phone. In life-threatening emergencies, call immediately.
Where to Eat
💡 Booking tip: For popular restaurants in Harare, book at least a week ahead — especially for weekend evenings and during festival season.
Your arrival at Home Matombo
🕒 Check-in is from . Arriving earlier? Most hotels store luggage free — just ask at reception.
🧭 First things nearby: cash · Nearest — 599 m · ~7 min walk
🚐 Pre-book an airport transfer →Getting Around
Roadside stop near Udinge Residence (Samora Machel Ave or 4th Street) → Central Harare or Mbare
💡 Squeeze into a pale-blue kombi heading to 'Town' or 'Fourth Street' if you're on a budget. Flag it by raising one finger. Carry small notes — no change given. Not for first-time visitors new to hand-over cash etiquette.
Udinge Residence → Chitungwiza or surrounding suburbs
💡 ZUPCO buses are government-run and slightly more orderly than kombis. Route K serves central Harare from the bus rank near Mbare. Buy your ticket from the desk, not the tout. Expect long queues for popular routes.
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE) → Udinge Residence, Harare
💡 Pre-book via Udinge reception. Cheaper than hailing a cab at arrivals — drivers there often quote USD 40+ for the same ride.
Udinge Residence → Anywhere in central Harare
💡 Vaya is Zimbabwe's Uber equivalent — cash is king, but pay in local ZWL if you have it; drivers prefer USD for short trips. Hwindi is more reliable outside peak hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rooms at Home Matombo?
Request rooms on the higher floors (4th floor or above) for a quieter experience. These rooms are less likely to be affected by street noise from the busy Harare streets.
Which rooms should I avoid at Home Matombo?
Rooms near the lift (elevator) on lower floors (1st-3rd floors) might experience more noise from guests and staff movement.
Is Home Matombo noisy?
Street noise from Harare's busy streets is likely to be a concern, especially for rooms on lower floors. The hotel's location on the street may also mean that rooms near the service entrance or bar might experience noise from delivery vehicles and late-night bar activity.
Which rooms have the best views at Home Matombo?
Rooms facing north or east might offer a view of the surrounding cityscape, but this cannot be guaranteed without more specific information about the hotel's layout.
What are insider tips for staying at Home Matombo?
1. Arrive early for check-in to ensure a smooth process, as the hotel may have limited staff during peak hours. 2. Request extra towels or amenities by contacting the front desk directly, as they may not be included in the standard room package.
What time is check-in at Home Matombo?
Check-in at Home Matombo is from null. Check-out is by null.
Does Home Matombo have Wi-Fi?
free tier (1 Mbps) and paid tier (20 Mbps) for ZWL $15 per day, login via room key card
Is there a city or tourist tax at Home Matombo?
ZWL $2 per person per night
Where can I eat cheaply near Home Matombo?
A plate of sadza with vegetables or relish costs around 20-30 ZWL at a local eatery.
What is the cheapest way to get around from Home Matombo?
A day pass for public transport costs around 10-20 ZWL; the cheapest way from the airport is by taxi (around 20-30 ZWL).
When is the best time to visit Harare?
The best months to visit Harare are May and June, when the weather is mild and sunny, with average highs of 22°C (72°F), making it ideal for outdoor exploration. The crowds are manageable, and prices for accommodations are relatively low. July is also a good option, but it's the start of winter, and temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F) at night.
Top Attractions in Harare
💡 Avoid after dark—it empties out and can feel unsafe. Morning visits are calm, and you'll often see locals doing tai chi or yoga on the lawns.
💡 Go with a local or a guide—the area can feel isolated, and muggings have happened. Better to go on a weekend afternoon when other visitors are around, or join a walking tour group.
💡 Go early (7 am) for the best produce and less crowding. Keep your wallet hidden and camera discreet—it's safe but busy. Try a roasted maize cob from a vendor for 50 US cents.
💡 Get a kombi from Copacabana rank (cheap, frequent) or drive. Wear sturdy shoes—the rock can be slippery if there's been rain. No entrance fee, but a small levy for car parking.
💡 Go on a weekday morning to have the galleries almost to yourself. The sculpture garden out back is free to wander without a ticket.