Location: Bulawayo
Top Things to do in Bulawayo
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What to do and see in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe: The Best Places and Tips
Bulawayo is the second-largest city in Zimbabwe after the capital Harare, with, as of the ever disputed 2012 census, a population of 653,337 while Bulawayo Municipal records indicate a population of 1,200,750. This understating of population by the government is due to the marginalisation of the Matabeleland region by the government since 1980 in a bid to avail less resources. With a population of 620,000 in 1992 Bulawayo cannot have a population of 653 337 20 years later when it is exhausting its land due to housing expansion. It is in Matabeleland, 439 km (273 mi) southwest of Harare, and is now treated as a separate provincial area from Matabeleland. The capital of Matabeleland North is now Lupane, as Bulawayo is a metropolitan province.
Restaurants in Bulawayo
1. Matobo National Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 299 reviews
Reviewed By KevUrs - Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Matobo is a special place. It has a large diversity of trees and plants and hosts many species of wildlife. One of the highlights of Matobo are the spectacular views across the Valleys and the famous balancing rocks seen everywhere. There are many lichen species and some rare bird species occur here - like Black Eagles. The park is close to Bulawayo and is small so easy to access most areas within it. The national parks staff at the gate were really good and made very sure we knew of all the sights and attractions within the park - well done to them thank you we enjoyed the experience very much.
2. Natural History Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 152 reviews
Since 1964 this four-story museum has been an important homage to the history, culture and people of Africa.
Reviewed By Rebecca H - Leicestershire, United Kingdom
The museum was really well laid out with attractive and informative displays. One of the best natural history museums outside the UK I've visited, well worth a visit.
3. Bulawayo Railway Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 103 reviews
Reviewed By hikwam - Nairobi, Kenya
Get engulfed in transport history, Bulawayo Railway Museum features several Exhibitions on the historical narrative of the railway system in Zimbabwe
4. Khami Ruins
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 67 reviews
Constructed in the 16th century, this is a site of the former capital and major trading city.
Reviewed By WonderfulWorld59 - Missouri
Set among a forest, the Khami Ruins was established as the capital of the Torwa dynasty around 1450 (after the state of Great Zimbabwe disappeared). The architecture follows the same principals as the Great Zimbabwe Monument. Taking a guide or Reading up on this history, will greatly enhance your visit to the Khami Ruins. To best explore this site, first visit the small museum/visitor center. If you did not bring a guide, this is where you can learn about the Torwa dynasty (buy the book and read for a few minutes). An easy 5 minute walk up to the hill complex leads to terraced platforms and dry stack retaining walls decorated with geometric patterns. Allow 2-3 hours.
5. Nesbitt Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 62 reviews
Reviewed By Travelmonger31 - Atlanta, Georgia
Went for a Xmas lunch and loved the food a experience, old world Africa and fun exploring massive castle!
6. Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage and Research Centre
Overall Ratings
4 based on 99 reviews
Chipangali is a haven for wild animals which have little hope for survival in the wild - creatures which have been orphaned, abandoned, injured, born in captivity or brought up unsuccessfully as pets. It is often the last refuge for those brought in sick or injured, and increasingly it is a sanctuary for confiscated animals. We invite children and animal lovers of all nationalities to visit our Animal Orphanage and take an educational tour to learn more about African wildlife. We have 150 animals and birds located in 40 acres. There is a tea room for snacks and a souvenir stall. Lots of shady places to sit and have a picnic. School groups and other large groups welcome. Open Tuesday to Sunday. Mondays Closed. Timing: 8 am to 5 pm. Open on all Public Holidays except Christmas Day. Admission: Adults 5$, Children 4$ School Groups: High School 4$, Primary School 3$, Teachers 4$
Reviewed By Captain_Dann - Cleveland, Georgia
I was not expecting to be treated to such a wonderful display of wildlife, friendly-knowledgeable volunteers and a beautiful setting. Chipangali was a real find and a "must-visit" for those travelling in the Bulawayo area. The management and staff were superb, and exhibits very well done and the variety of animals fantastic. Very educational and exciting (especially when all the lions decided to start roaring) An up-close chance to see some rare native animals...just dont eat the Guniea Pigs :)
Overall Ratings
4 based on 56 reviews
Reviewed By Janvu - Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Centrally located the museum provides a good overview of local artist. Different styles and techniques on display. If possible have a look at the ateliers of some artists in the garden. The museum shop provides very reasonably priced craftsmanship souvenirs. A must see.
8. ThisAndThat Safaris
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 38 reviews
Half day tours to Khami Ruins with refreshments served on the picnic site.The Ruins are unique and attractive and ideal for those who are into history and culture. Budget travelers can try the Matopos outside Park tour with a visit to the bushman cave paintings.Great Zimbabwe Ruins day tour from either Harare or Bulawayo - minimum 2 people. Inquire about Rhino trekking and Matopos cycling tour.Silunguzi Cultural tourism program is also another thing to do if you are interested in African Culture.Get in touch for more information We will visit the Khami Ruins Hill Complex,Portuguese Cross,Kings Residence,Dam wall,gong and the site Museum. For those who want to combine Khami Ruins with Matopos Silunguzi village tour, it is possible to be done in a full day.
Reviewed By Rebecca H - Leicestershire, United Kingdom
I organised and arranged a 2 day tour to Matapos and Great Zimbabwe, via email from the UK. Thembi made everything simple and he was able to offer good suggestions regarding itineraries, accommodation and onward transport options. On arrival in Bulawayo Thembi, who was to be our guide, met us at our accommodation and ran through the itinerary for the following 2 days. We had a wonderful two days, Thembi was very knowledgeable about the area and he was an interesting and friendly guide who helped make the trip so enjoyable, nothing was too much trouble and despite fitting a lot into our two days we never felt rushed. At Matapos we were lucky enough to see several rhino courtesy of 'eagle eyed' Thembi and Great Zimbabwe was just awesome, we even stopped at a local town for lunch and met his equally lovely sister!.
I would highly recommend ThisandThat Safaris for any tours or local transport needs. They were well organised, courteous and have excellent guides. If I return to Zimbabwe I wouldn't hesitate to use them again. Thank you Thembi for a truly amazing trip.
9. Old Bulawayo
Overall Ratings
4 based on 21 reviews
Reviewed By Chiremba_Makoni - Bulawayo
Driving to old Bulawayo brought a breath of fresh air into my lungs. Looks like King Lobengula's capital has not been given a new touch since the last time it razed by a veld fire. The responsible authorities should do something about the burnt out buildings, but the tour was very informative!!!
10. St Marys Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4 based on 12 reviews
Reviewed By Alessio L - Lyon, France
Bulawayo has definitely nice 20th century buildings! The catholic Cathedral deserves a visit. it is very central and close to other beautiful buildings of the city centre. Religion is also quite important in Southern Africa so I think that a visit of Bulawayo should include this Cathedral :)
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