Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary in Lake Chivero, Harare: Tickets, Hours and Family Guide
Animals and wildlife in Lake Chivero, Harare
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Kuimba Shiri is a relaxed, affordable bird sanctuary that works well for young children. The raptor show is the highlight, and the lakeside setting is peaceful. Expect a simple, authentic experience rather than a polished zoo.
What is Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary?
Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary sits on the bank of Lake Chivero, about 30 km from central Harare. It shelters over 400 indigenous and exotic bird species, including eagles, vultures, and owls, and runs a daily raptor flight demonstration at 4pm. The restaurant is set under spreading trees with views over the lake, making it an easy family lunch stop. The sanctuary also rehabilitates injured birds, so visits directly support conservation.
Bird rescue and rehabilitation; entry fees fund care.
Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary ticket prices 2026
| Visitor type | Adult | Child (Under 12) | Yes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard rate | ZWG 6 | ZWG 4 | Free |
Adult US$6; child under 12 US$4. Raptor show included in entry.
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💡 Money-saving tips for families
- Raptor show 4pm daily is the highlight.
- Weekday Quieter and easier for young children.
- Raptor show Arrive by 15:45.
- Cash For entry and meals.
Is it right for your child's age?
| Age group | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 years | Good | Birds visible from the restaurant. |
| 3–5 years | Very good | Raptor show is engaging. |
| 6–9 years | Excellent | Core age range for bird interest. |
| 10–12 years | Very good | Birding and photography. |
| 13+ years | Good | Peaceful lakeside stop. |
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Key details
- Address
- Lake Chivero, Norton, Harare, Zimbabwe, Harare
- Opening hours
- Daily 08:00–17:00 (raptor show at 16:00) Closed now
- How long to plan
- 2–3 hours
- Suitable ages
- All ages
- Setting
- Lakeside bird sanctuary
- Booking
- Not required
- Payment accepted
- Cash
What to expect when you visit
Raptor flight show, restaurant, lakeside walks
What if...?
The questions every parent asks before booking. Tap to expand.
Is the raptor show suitable for young children?
Yes, it is visual and engaging for all ages.
Can we eat at the restaurant without paying entry?
Entry is required to access the sanctuary and restaurant.
Family essentials
- Suitable age bands
- 0–2 years
- 3–5 years
- 6–9 years
- 10–12 years
- 13+ years
- Toddler suitability
- Yes, restaurant setting
- Minimum age
- 0
- Facilities
- Restaurant
- lakeside walks
- Access and parking
- Paved access; flat
- Safety notes
Supervise children near the lake
Tickets and costs
- Free entry rules
- No
- Extra costs (activities, rentals, food)
Raptor show, restaurant
Plan your visit
- Best time to visit
- Late afternoon (raptor show)
- Busiest times
- Weekends
- How to get there
From Harare, take the Bulawayo road to Lake Chivero; signed.
- By car
- Yes, parking available
- Uber / Bolt estimate
- Taxi
- Public transport
Bus to Norton then taxi
- Combine with
- Lion & Cheetah Park — drive-through safari
- Mukuvisi Woodlands — city game reserve
- What to bring
- Sun hat
- Water bottle
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Cash for entry
Accessibility deep dive
Here is what to expect on the ground.
Under spreading trees.
Eagles and vultures in flight.
Good light in late afternoon.
Combine your visit
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What to pack
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What visitors say
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Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to visit Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary?
- Adults pay ZWG 6 and children (ages Under 12) pay ZWG 4. Children yes enter free. Adult US$6; child under 12 US$4. Raptor show included in entry.
- What are the Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary opening hours?
- Daily 08:00–17:00 (raptor show at 16:00). Busiest: Weekends.
- Is Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary suitable for toddlers and young children?
- Minimum age: 0. Supervise children near the lake
- How long do you need at Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary?
- Plan for 2–3 hours.
- What payment methods does Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary accept?
- Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary accepts Cash.
- Is Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary accessible, and is there parking?
- Access and parking: Paved access; flat.
- What is the best time to visit Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary?
- Late afternoon (raptor show). It is busiest Weekends.
- How do you get to Kuimba Shiri Bird Sanctuary?
- Yes, parking available. Ride-hailing: Taxi. Public transport: Bus to Norton then taxi From Harare, take the Bulawayo road to Lake Chivero; signed.
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