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Tall distant building appearing behind trees. High rise building.
Tall distant building appearing behind trees. High rise building.  - Photo by Tex Chinhara

Explore Historic Attractions in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe - A Travel

About Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the stunning Matobo Hills to visiting the historic Natural History Museum, there's no shortage of things to see and do in this Zimbabwean gem. Discover more about Bulawayo on our travel blog today!

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. Located in the southwest region of Zimbabwe, Bulawayo is a vibrant and historic city that is rich in culture and tradition.

One of the main attractions in Bulawayo is its rich history. The city is home to several museums and historic sites that are a must-visit for history buffs. The Natural History Museum is a popular destination for tourists, where they can learn about the flora and fauna of Zimbabwe, as well as the country's geology and natural resources. The nearby Railway Museum, also worth a visit, showcases the country's railway history.

Bulawayo is also a great destination for nature lovers. The Matobo National Park, located just outside of the city, is a stunning natural reserve with granite hills and rock formations that are over 2 billion years old. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including rhinos, leopards, and zebras. Visitors can go on guided walks or horseback rides to explore the park.

For those interested in Zimbabwean culture, Bulawayo is a great place to experience traditional music, dance, and food. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs offering live music and entertainment. The Amakhosi Cultural Centre is a great place to experience local traditional music and dance performances.

To get a glimpse of everyday life in Bulawayo, visitors can explore the bustling city centre. There are several markets selling everything from food to clothing, and the city's many cafes offer a great opportunity to relax and people-watch.

Overall, Bulawayo is a fascinating destination that is well worth a visit. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture, it offers something for everyone.

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Popular Stays in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Choose the peaceful Holiday Inn Bulawayo hotel, your ideal conference venue close to Bulawayo City Centre. The tranquil Holiday Inn Bulawayo is set among blooming gardens, just three km from downtown Bulawayo. Sink into a sofa in the homely lobby while you surf the web with complimentary wireless Internet, or host events in our modern meeting rooms. You can jet into Bulawayo Airport, 21 km away, and leave your vehicle in our complimentary car park when you arrive. Stay at Holiday Inn Bulawayo to be well-placed for the developing mining district, around 15 km away. You can prepare for meetings in our air-conditioned Business Centre. The leafy Centenary Park's National History Museum, packed with clothing and tools from early settlers, is just two km from the hotel. Seek out the colonial-style Douslin House, home of the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, with its wide collection of basketry. Our Guest Relations desk will help you plan trips to the 15th-century city ruins at Khami, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 22 km away. Cool off in the 36 sqm outdoor pool after working out on our squash, tennis or basketball courts at Holiday Inn Bulawayo. Castle Beer accompanied with complimentary local snacks like amacimbi, a local delicacy in Kobulawayo bar, where our house band provides musical accompaniment on select days of the week.

Things to do in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

We offer excellent reliable transfer service between major Cities and town in Zimbabwe. Our drivers are friendly, well trained and used to the road and terrain. We ensure timely departures and arrivals. We see to it that our travelers have the best experience and learn as much as they can about our country as they drive through the country side.
Tour Highlights • History and Heritage • White rhino tracking • San Bushmen cave paintings • Cecil John Rhodes Grave and Worldsview • The Ndebele and Matebele warriors • The Shangani Patrol • Malindidzimu - The place of the spirits • Balancing rocks • Souvenir shopping • African picnic barbecue
Great Zimbabwe monument is a Unesco World Heritage Site, it’s full of history and provides a perfect day out for visitors in Zimbabwe. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe during the country’s Late Iron Age. Great Zimbabwe served as a royal palace for the Zimbabwean monarch and was used as the seat of political power. One of its most prominent features were the walls, some of which were over five meters high and which were constructed without mortar. There are 200 such sites in southern Africa, such as Bumbusi in Zimbabwe and Manyikeni in Mozambique, with monumental, mortarless walls but none as large and intact as those of Great Zimbabwe.
Travellers have the unique opportunity of experiencing both the natural and cultural heritages at this site. Matopos National Park is rich in sites to visit, especially the Rock Paintings, history of the English settlers, the awe striking Granite rocks, and wildlife.
Tour Highlights • Wildlife and Nature • White rhino tracking on foot and up close wildlife encounters • Bush walk with tree, animal, bird and spoor identification • Appreciation of rhino habitats • Meet the bush heroes, our Parks Rangers • San Bushmen paintings • Sunset sun downers and snacks
We offer excellent airport transfers, ensuring that our visitors have the best welcome and departure to or from Bulawayo. We provide air conditioned cars, with professional drivers and comfortable vehicles for a swift ride from the airport.
Rhodes Matopos National Park is very famous for its large concentration of Black Eagle,white Rhino and leopard. About 45 minutes drive from Bulawayo takes us to Rhodes Matopos National Park.Explore a world of rocks! Dominated by two billion year old granite hills, Matopos National Park is a fascinating place of natural beauty but also one with a historical significance. The incredible boulders panorama of World’s View is where the grave of Cecil John Rhodes is situated. It’s here where you can discover 3000 well-preserved rock paintings from as far back as the Stone Age – hence why it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This wildlife Park offers 100 square kilometres of habitat for many wild specifics, including black and white rhino, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, leopard, hyena and antelope.
This excursions gives travellers the opportunity to explore the hidden wonders of Masvingo, from the captivating architecture and archeology of the monuments to the refreshing breeze of the lake and wildlife its an excursion worth going for.

Why People Love Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

T
tdwtdw
3
Mar 2023
The Natural History Museum should be deleted from the tour. At the US $10 admission price, it simply isn't worth it. They should have paid me to go there! The balance of the tour is okay. The guide is very good, very knowledgeable. The Railway Museum is a highlight of the tour. Also, the Ne...
CC
Chiedza C
5
Jul 2021
We started out bright and early and Lesley was on time with complimentary refreshments - this was much appreciated as the trip was long and hot. He was attentive and best of all he had wifi services available in the car. We were not harassed at any of the road blocks as Bonisa transfers had all ...
S
SummerSunHoliday
5
Oct 2022
From start to finish Lesley was a true professional and would highly recommend any of the services he offers. Our family did a return transfer from Bulawayo to the falls and it all went seamlessly. From the very beginning at pick up through to drop off Lesley made us feel welcome. He is a very s...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bulawayo

What are the top tourist attractions in Bulawayo?

Bulawayo is home to a number of fascinating tourist attractions. One of the most popular is the Matobo National Park, which boasts stunning landscapes and a diverse range of wildlife. Another must-see attraction is the Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's rich cultural history. Other popular attractions in Bulawayo include the Natural History Museum, the Railway Museum, and the National Art Gallery.

What are some fun activities to do in Bulawayo?

There are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy in Bulawayo. One popular option is taking a guided walking tour of the city, where you can learn about its rich history and culture. Visitors can also enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and wildlife safaris. For those interested in art and culture, the city has a thriving arts scene, with many galleries and museums to explore.

What are the best places to stay in Bulawayo?

Bulawayo offers a range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. For those looking for luxury, some of the most popular options include the Matobo Hills Lodge, the Bulawayo Club, and the Nesbitt Castle. Mid-range options include Cresta Churchill Hotel, Bulawayo Rainbow Hotel, and Holiday Inn Bulawayo. Budget options include the N1 Hotel Bulawayo and the Bulawayo Backpackers Lodge.

When is the best time to visit Bulawayo?

The best time to visit Bulawayo is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally warm and sunny, with little rain. This makes it the perfect time for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife safaris. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so it's best to book your accommodation and activities in advance.

What is the local cuisine like in Bulawayo?

The local cuisine in Bulawayo is a delicious blend of African and European influences. Some of the most popular dishes include sadza (a type of maize porridge), matumbu (tripe), and mazondo (beef hooves). Visitors can also enjoy a range of international cuisine, including Italian, Indian, and Chinese. For those who love to try new things, there are also plenty of street food vendors selling tasty snacks and treats.

What should I pack for a trip to Bulawayo?

When packing for a trip to Bulawayo, it's important to consider the climate. The weather is generally warm and sunny, so light, breathable clothing is recommended. However, it can get chilly in the evenings, so it's a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater. Visitors should also pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat to protect against the sun.

What is the nightlife like in Bulawayo?

Bulawayo has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Some of the most popular options include the Vista Night Club, the Smokehouse Grill, and the Lounge at the Nesbitt Castle. Visitors can enjoy a range of music, from traditional African beats to modern pop and rock. However, it's important to note that some venues may have dress codes, so it's best to check ahead before heading out for the night.

What is the local currency in Bulawayo?

The local currency in Bulawayo is the Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL). However, many businesses also accept US dollars and South African rand. It's a good idea to carry both local currency and US dollars, as some businesses may not accept foreign currency.

Is Bulawayo safe for tourists?

Bulawayo is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors should exercise caution when traveling alone at night, and should avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables. It's also a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, such as markets or on public transportation. Visitors should also be aware of the risk of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft.

What is the best way to get around Bulawayo?

The best way to get around Bulawayo is by taxi or private car. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive, although it's important to negotiate the fare before getting in. Visitors can also rent a car, although it's important to note that driving in Zimbabwe can be challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the local roads. Another option is to take local minibuses or buses, although these can be crowded and uncomfortable.

What are some lesser-known attractions in Bulawayo?

While Bulawayo is home to many well-known tourist attractions, there are also plenty of lesser-known gems to discover. One of these is the Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage, which is home to a range of rescued and rehabilitated animals. Another is the Tshabalala Game Sanctuary, which boasts a range of wildlife and birdlife in a beautiful natural setting. Visitors can also explore the local markets, such as the Tshabalala Flea Market, for a taste of local life and culture.