Bulawayo

Zimbabwe, Africa

Bulawayo, the second-largest city in Zimbabwe, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant history. It boasts remarkable attractions such as the Natural History Museum, showcasing the region's biodiversity, and the impressive Matobo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its striking rock formations and ancient San rock paintings. The city's well-preserved Victorian architecture and lively markets also offer a taste of local life. With its warm hospitality and cultural events, Bulawayo invites travelers to explore its unique charm.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Bulawayo

1

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Hwange National Park

Experience incredible wildlife in stunning landscapes.

Booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Bulawayo Railway Museum

Discover the rich history of Zimbabwe's railways.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Natural History Museum

Engage with fascinating exhibits on local biodiversity.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Centenary Park

Relax in a beautiful green space in the city.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Bulawayo Art Gallery

Admire local and international art collections.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a cultural performance at the Theatre

Enjoy local theatre, music, and dance performances.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Khami Ruins

Explore ancient stone ruins and UNESCO site.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at the Bulawayo Market

Experience local crafts and vibrant culture.

No booking required
9

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Matobo National Park

See ancient rock paintings and diverse wildlife.

Booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Bulawayo Botanical Gardens

Relax amidst diverse plant species and landscapes.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

No data

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-12 (#174 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Zimbabwe Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Shona

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Sadza

VE

Cornmeal porridge, staple food. (National dish)

Muriwo Unedovi

VE

Vegetables with groundnut sauce.

Nyama

Grilled or stewed meat dish.

Mopane Worms

Edible caterpillars, high in protein.

Mapopo Candy

VE

Candied papaya, sweet treat.

Phrases to learn

English

Shona

Hello

Mhoro

(Mm-hoh-roh)

Yes/No

Ehe / Kwete

(Eh-heh / Kweh-teh)

Thank you

Ndatenda

(N-dah-tehn-dah)

Excuse me

Pamusoroi

(Pah-moo-soh-roh-ee)

How much?

Inga nani?

(Een-gah nah-nee)