There are 2 way(s) to get from Pretoria to Harare (Zimbabwe)
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
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Practical tips
During South African and Zimbabwean school holidays, coaches can sell out quickly. To avoid disappointment and ensure your seat, it's highly recommended to book your coach ticket online well in advance.
Ensure all your travel documents, including your passport and any required visas for Zimbabwe, are in order before you depart. Customs and immigration checks at the border can take time, so be prepared.
Coach journeys to Harare can result in late-night arrivals. If you choose this option, pre-arrange your transfer from the bus terminal to your accommodation to ensure a safe and smooth arrival in an unfamiliar city.
Consider your budget and schedule. A 3-hour flight for around €90 saves a full day of travel compared to a 14-hour coach trip for €35. Weigh if the time saved is worth the extra cost for your itinerary.
For the 14-hour coach journey, bring snacks, water, a comfortable neck pillow, and entertainment. Breaks are usually provided, but personal comfort items can make a big difference on such a long trip.
🛣️ The journey experience
Planning your journey from Pretoria to Harare, Zimbabwe, means considering both time and budget. South Africa is vast, and cross-border travel requires careful thought to ensure a smooth trip. We'll help you quickly determine whether flying or taking a coach is your best bet, comparing durations and price ranges in a clear way so you can make an informed decision.
For this route, you have two main options: flying or taking a long-distance coach. A flight, typically routed via Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International Airport, takes approximately 3 hours and costs around €90. This is by far the quickest way to reach Harare. Alternatively, a coach journey offers a more budget-friendly option at around €35, but be prepared for a substantial travel time of approximately 14 hours.
Choosing between a flight and a coach depends on your priorities. If time is of the essence and you want to avoid a full day of travel, a flight is the smarter choice despite the slightly higher cost. However, if you're on a mid-range budget and prefer to save money, the coach is a viable option, provided you're comfortable with the extended travel duration. Always consider school holidays, as coaches can fill up quickly during peak periods, making early booking advisable.
Frequently asked questions — Pretoria → Harare (Zimbabwe)
A direct flight from Johannesburg (after a short Gautrain trip from Pretoria) to Harare takes about 3 hours, while a coach journey can take up to 14 hours. Flying is significantly faster and often preferred by independent travellers who want to maximize their time in Zimbabwe, especially for longer trips. If you prioritize speed and comfort, flying is generally the better choice.
Long-distance coaches typically depart from designated bus terminals in Pretoria, often around the city centre or major transport hubs. In Harare, they usually arrive at the main bus station, such as Mbare Musika. Specific departure and arrival points can vary by operator, so it's crucial to confirm details directly with your chosen coach company when booking.
The coach trip from Pretoria to Harare costs approximately €35. In contrast, a flight, usually connecting via Johannesburg, is around €90. The coach is significantly more economical, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers. However, consider the value of your time when making your decision, as the flight saves a considerable amount of travel duration.
The best mode of transport depends on your priorities. If saving time and having a more comfortable journey are paramount, flying is the superior option despite the higher cost. If you are on a mid-range budget and prefer to save money, the coach is a perfectly viable choice, but be prepared for a long journey. Always check flight prices as cheap deals can sometimes make flying very competitive.
✨ Why visit Harare (Zimbabwe)?
- ✓ Explore the Mukuvisi Woodland, a wildlife sanctuary home to giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
- ✓ Visit the National Gallery of Zimbabwe to admire contemporary and traditional African art.
- ✓ Discover the balancing rocks of Epworth, unique geological formations near the city.
- ✓ Stroll through the bustling Avondale market for local crafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce.
- ✓ Experience local culture and history at the Queen Victoria Museum and National Archives.
☀️ When to visit Harare (Zimbabwe)?
SUBTROPICAL HIGHLAND
May to October — Dry, cool winter months with pleasant temperatures and less humidity, ideal for safaris and outdoor activities.
What to do in Harare (Zimbabwe)?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Harare (Zimbabwe)?
For an independent traveler, 3-5 days is ideal. This allows you to explore the city's main attractions like the National Gallery and local markets, and also take a day trip to Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary. If time is short, 2 full days cover the essentials, but more lets you delve deeper without rush.
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