Things To Do
in Lupane
Lupane is a small town in Matabeleland North, perched on open savanna dotted with villages and river pockets. It serves as a gateway to rural Zimbabwean life and nearby wildlife corridors, with a backdrop of rolling hills and mopane woodland. The town hosts a university presence that brings a youthful energy and local craft markets that showcase beadwork and traditional foods.
Visitors will find friendly locals, approachable day trips, and authentic experiences away from the more tourist-heavy destinations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport and take a scenic drive to Lupane. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Zimbabwe as you travel toward the heart of the Matabeleland North province. Check into your accommodation and freshen up before exploring the town.
After lunch, visit the Lupane State University to learn about the local educational initiatives. Engage with students and faculty to understand the challenges and achievements in the region's education sector. Stroll through the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and flavors of Lupane.
As the sun sets, have dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Zimbabwean cuisine. Relish the tranquility of the countryside while sharing stories with fellow travelers. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk to soak in the charming night sky.
Begin your day by visiting the nearby rural communities to experience local life. Participate in morning activities such as basket weaving or pottery making, learning skills from the artisans. Enjoy a hearty breakfast made from fresh, local ingredients.
Take a guided tour to the nearby wildlife conservancies, where you can observe the diverse flora and fauna. Experience a thrilling game drive, hoping to spot elephants, antelopes, and various bird species along the way. Learn about conservation efforts and the challenges faced by wildlife in the region.
Return to your accommodation and enjoy an outdoor barbecue dinner. Share your experiences from the day with new friends, celebrating local stories and traditions. Finish your evening by sitting around the fire, listening to local folklore and music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-6 |
| 🍺Beer at a local bar | $1.50-3 |
| 🛏️Night in a budget hotel | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Zimbabwean experiences away from tourist crowds
- Friendly locals and strong community spirit
- Affordably priced food, accommodations, and activities
- Accessible day trips to nearby nature and cultural sites
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared with bigger cities
- Mobile coverage and internet can be spotty in rural areas
- Public transportation is infrequent; plan ahead for trips outside town
- Healthcare facilities are basic; carry essential medications and travel insurance
- "Mhoro" - Hello
- "Ndatenda" - Thank you
- "Ndapota" - Please
- "Zviri sei?" - How are you?
- "Ndiri kunetswa, ndingakumbira rubatsiro?" - I need help, could you assist me?
Places to Visit in Lupane
Visit one of these nice places.
Open views of the town and surrounding savanna; ideal for sunrise and late-afternoon landscapes with gentle hills in the distance.
Vibrant market stalls abundant with beadwork and textiles; excellent for portraits and color-rich street photography.
Scenic river banks near Lupane that glow at sunset; good for wildlife silhouettes and reflective water shots.
Campus greens and architecture provide a quiet backdrop for candid student life and architectural photography.
Food in Lupane
Lupane Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The staple maize meal served with a choice of relish such as leafy greens, beans, or meat, commonly found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Small dried fish fried with onions and served with sadza or greens; a traditional and widely enjoyed combination.
Crispy fried mopane worms, a protein-rich local snack often eaten with maize meal or greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling stalls offering fresh produce, maize meal, fire-roasted snacks, and traditional foods; great for sampling on-the-ground flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a handshake; be polite and patient in conversations with elders and hosts.
Always ask before photographing people, especially in villages or private settings.
Dress modestly in public spaces; show respect for local customs and elders, and avoid public displays of confrontation.
Safety
Tipping in Lupane
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service, especially in markets, eateries, and guided tours. Small, discrete tips are common.
Cash in USD or local currencies is widely used; mobile money (where available) is increasingly common, while card acceptance may be limited in smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and often humid with afternoon showers; carry water, wear sun protection, and mosquito repellent; outdoor activities are best in early morning or late afternoon.
Dry and cool to mild days with cooler nights; comfortable for exploring and wildlife viewing; occasional chill in the evenings, so bring a light jacket.
Mild temperatures and moderate rainfall; pleasant for walking, photography, and village visits without the peak crowds.
Lupane at Night
Hiking in Lupane
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate day hikes through farmlands and hillside views surrounding Lupane; suitable for photography and wildlife spotting.
Gentle riverbank walks offering birds, open skies, and serene landscapes perfect for sunset shoots.
Airports
How to reach Lupane by plane.
Major international gateway located to the north; access to Lupane typically via domestic flights and ground transfer.
Regional hub with domestic connections; a common base for travelers heading to Lupane by road or private transport.
Smaller airstrip serving charter flights to Hwange and surrounding areas; useful for those combining park visits with Lupane.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Ndebele-speaking communities with Shona influences, plus students and families connected to the Lupane State University and local markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal games are common in towns and villages.
Played in schools and clubs; occasional local matches attract community spectators.
Lesser but present in schools and regional clubs, especially during school terms.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lupane.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable relishes, greens, beans, and corn-based dishes; ask for tomato-based sauces or chutneys if available, and confirm ingredients with staff.