Things To Do
in Bulawayo
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second-largest city, is known for its rich history and cultural diversity. It serves as a gateway to various national parks and natural attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. The city boasts a blend of colonial architecture and vibrant local culture, reflected in its museums, galleries, and markets.
With a warm climate and friendly locals, Bulawayo offers a unique experience for travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Natural History Museum, where you can explore exhibits on the region's wildlife and history.
Enjoy lunch at a local café before heading to the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences to learn about the country's archaeological and ethnographic heritage.
Dine at a traditional restaurant and experience local cuisine, followed by a leisurely stroll in the city center.
Take a trip to Matobo National Park for a morning hike and the chance to see rock art and wildlife.
Visit the nearby Bulawayo Railway Museum, where you can learn about the city's railway history and see vintage locomotives.
Wrap up your day with a visit to a local bar for drinks and live music, immersing yourself in the local nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $10 |
| ☕Cup of Coffee | $2 |
| 🚌Public Transport Ticket | $1 |
| 🏨Hotel Room (per night) | $40 |
| 🥗Fast Food Meal | $5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and historical attractions.
- Access to stunning natural parks and wildlife.
- Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Public transport can be infrequent.
- Some areas may experience safety concerns at night.
- "Salibonani" - Hello
- "Ndinokutendai" - Thank you
- "Ndiri kufara kukuzivai" - Nice to meet you
- "Ndapota" - Please
- "Unogamuchira here?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Bulawayo
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its stunning rock formations and wildlife, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.
A unique location featuring vintage trains and railway memorabilia, ideal for history enthusiasts.
A great spot to photograph fascinating exhibits of local flora and fauna.
Food in Bulawayo
Bulawayo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple food in Zimbabwe, sadza is a thick porridge made from maize meal, often served with meat, vegetables, or stew.
Must-Try!
Dried and cured meat, similar to jerky, which is a popular snack and can be found at various markets.
Small dried fish often served with sadza and vegetables, offering a unique local flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and traditional snacks.
Various stalls around the city offering quick bites like samosas, grilled meats, and fried dough.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common, but it is polite to greet with 'Hello' or 'Salibonani' first.
Showing respect to elders is important; greetings should be directed at the oldest person first.
Dress codes are generally conservative, especially in rural areas; modest clothing is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Bulawayo
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants; always check if a service charge is included.
Cash is widely used, but some places accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry local currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot temperatures with occasional rain; perfect for exploring parks but pack rain gear.
Milder temperatures and less rain, making it a great time for outdoor activities.
Cool and dry weather; ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing, but evenings can be chilly.
Warm weather with blooming flowers; a beautiful time to visit, though temperatures can rise.
Bulawayo at Night
Hiking in Bulawayo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site with trails that lead through ancient ruins and scenic landscapes.
Famous for its rock formations and wildlife, offering various hiking trails with breathtaking views.
Airports
How to reach Bulawayo by plane.
Located approximately 20 km from Bulawayo, this airport offers flights to various domestic and regional destinations, making it convenient for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Shona are the largest ethnic group in Zimbabwe, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
The Ndebele are another significant group in the region, recognized for their vibrant art and historical significance.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a highly popular sport in Bulawayo, with many local teams and leagues, attracting enthusiastic fans.
Rugby is another beloved sport, with local clubs and schools actively participating in competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bulawayo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff.
Gluten-free options are limited, so those with allergies should communicate their needs clearly.