Riverstone Guest Lodge – A Tranquil Harare Retreat
Riverstone Guest Lodge offers accommodation in Harare, nestled in the southern part of the city’s Ardbennie area. Located roughly 12 kilometres from Harare International Airport and within easy reach of central Harare, the lodge sits in a quiet neighbourhood away from the busiest streets, while remaining convenient for travellers. The property provides free WiFi across the site and free private parking on site, making it a practical base for both business and leisure stays.
Each guest unit at Riverstone Lodge features a comfortable seating area and practical in-room amenities, including a microwave and a kettle. Private bathrooms include a bath and shower, with bed linen supplied for guests. The lodge’s address is 33A Waterfalls Avenue, Ardbennie, Harare, placing it just a short drive from local facilities such as Mbare Musika Market (about 2.5 km) and Trade Centre (around 850 metres). The proximity to local shops and a supermarket is reflected in guest convenience for food and daily essentials.
Highlights of a stay at Riverstone include the tranquil setting and the opportunity to unwind in a private environment. Visitors often remark on the lodge’s serene surroundings and the sense of being tucked away from the city’s hustle and bustle, while still being reasonably close to central Harare. The on-site restaurant offers dining options, though guests sometimes note that breakfast is not included in room rates, and opinions on the restaurant’s noise levels vary.
What to do nearby or during a break at Riverstone includes enjoying the surrounding greenery and stream features visible on the property. Guests have noted the staff’s courteous and helpful approach, with several reviews highlighting the willingness of staff to assist and accommodate guests during power outages with generator support. The lodge’s location also makes it convenient for travellers aiming to access central Harare or nearby markets and facilities without long commutes.
Who Riverstone Lodge is best for tends to be visitors seeking a quiet, affordable, conveniently located base in Harare. The rustic, peaceful setting and well-kept rooms appeal to guests prioritising cleanliness, space, and reliable WiFi. Families, couples, and solo travellers alike have found the lodge suitable for short breaks, business trips, or a restful stopover while exploring the city’s environs. Some guests, however, have highlighted areas for improvement, particularly around consistent hot water supply, room maintenance, and occasional noise from adjacent venues or streets. As with many small lodges, experiences may vary by room and timing of stay.
Practical tips for guests planning a visit include arranging transport in advance if you have a tight schedule, as the lodge is set in a residential area and local transport options may vary in reliability. It can be useful to confirm room features such as air conditioning and remote controls at booking, since some guests have encountered issues with amenities. While the lodge provides free WiFi, staying aware of any power interruptions and the availability of backup power can help you plan activities and work time accordingly. It is also worth noting that the on-site restaurant operates for guests, but breakfast may not be standard in every booking, so check your package details if breakfast is important to you.
Best time to visit Zimbabwe often aligns with temperate, dry seasons, which can offer pleasant conditions for enjoying the lodge’s outdoor spaces and the surrounding neighbourhood. If you are sensitive to noise, consider requesting a room away from the on-site dining area or any nearby sources of disturbance, and check current timings and activities at the lodge prior to arrival.
Getting there is straightforward from Harare International Airport (approximately 12 km away). The lodge’s central Harare location places you within reach of the city’s commercial areas, yet far enough to enjoy a calmer environment. For guests using public transport or taxis, having a clear address—Riverstone Guest Lodge, 33A Waterfalls Avenue, Ardbennie—will aid in a smoother transfer. If you are driving, on-site parking is available, helping you stay flexible during your visit.
Safety and etiquette should be observed as you would in any urban lodge. Respect for neighbours and adherence to quiet hours, particularly where the property is close to residential areas and other local venues, will ensure a pleasant stay for everyone. Basic courtesy with staff, as reflected in many guest reviews, goes a long way toward a smooth visit. While some reviews mention occasional service inconsistencies, the overall sentiment in feedback points to a courteous and accommodating staff who aim to make guests feel welcome and well looked after.
In summary, Riverstone Guest Lodge presents a convenient, comfortable option in Harare for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat with reliable wifi and parking, a modest but well-kept room standard, and proximity to central sights and markets. It is well suited to guests who value quiet surroundings, practical amenities, and a supportive staff team, while remaining mindful of the potential for room-specific maintenance variances and limited on-site dining options.
Chitungwiza
Harare
Zimbabwe
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Chitungwiza, Harare: A Practical Guide for Visitors
Chitungwiza is a lively town located just outside the capital city of Harare in Zimbabwe. It offers a gateway to authentic urban life in the region, with easy access to the bustle of Harare and nearby natural and cultural sites. Visitors can enjoy a mix of local dining, informal markets, friendly neighbourhoods, and opportunities to observe daily life in a Zimbabwean town that blends modern living with traditional rhythms.
Tourism and activities
Within Chitungwiza itself, guests can wander through bustling markets and residential streets to glimpse everyday life and pick up locally made crafts. Guided township or cultural tours, arranged through reputable operators, provide insight into community life, music, and crafts while supporting local livelihoods. For nature and outdoor experiences, day trips to nearby Harare attractions or to natural areas further afield offer opportunities for scenic walking, picnics, and wildlife viewing as appropriate to the season.
For visitors who enjoy dining and socialising, there are local eateries and casual venues where you can sample Zimbabwean flavours and dishes in a straightforward, informal setting. When exploring dining options, it is common to encounter a mix of traditional dishes, street-side snacks, and laid-back cafés. Always opt for places that look clean and busy with local patrons, and feel free to ask staff for recommendations on the day’s specials.
Dining and night-time entertainment
Dining ranges from modest, friendly eateries to more contemporary establishments in nearby Harare. In the evenings, live music and community events can occur in venues across the region, offering a warm sense of hospitality and a chance to hear local instruments and singing. If you are unsure about a venue, seek advice from your accommodation or a trusted guide to ensure a comfortable experience.
Accommodation
Chitungwiza itself has a range of options suitable for different budgets, from modest guesthouses to more comfortable lodgings. Many visitors choose to stay in Harare proper for a wider selection of hotels, restaurants, and services, with convenient day trips to Chitungwiza. When booking, consider location, safety, and access to transport links to your planned activities. A practical approach is to choose accommodation with reliable recommendations, clear pricing, and accessible transport connections.
Entertainment and attractions nearby
While Chitungwiza is primarily a residential town, its proximity to Harare means you can easily access the city’s museums, galleries, parks, and shopping districts. Within short travel distances are opportunities to explore Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage, from art centres to historical sites. For nature lovers, day trips can include lakes, nature reserves, or countryside scenery outside the capital region. Plan your itinerary with time for travel, especially during peak hours, to make the most of your visit.
Best time to visit and practical tips
The dry season, roughly May to October, tends to offer pleasant walking weather and clearer skies for sightseeing. The rainy season brings lush landscapes but occasional disruption to outdoor plans, so check local forecasts before heading out. Practical tips include arranging registered transport, carrying cash in local currency where accepted, and safeguarding valuables in busy areas. Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting neighbourhoods, particularly in more traditional settings. Always confirm opening times and costs in advance, and keep to well-lit, populated routes after dark.
Getting around
- Use reputable transport options, such as authorised taxis or established shuttle services.
- Plan your day with a clear start and finish point to avoid long waits for connections.
- Allow extra time for travel between Chitungwiza and Harare centres, especially during peak periods.
Chitungwiza offers an approachable introduction to Zimbabwean urban life, with friendly people, straightforward dining, and convenient access to broader Harare attractions. With sensible planning, visitors can enjoy a rewarding glimpse of everyday Zimbabwean culture.

