Things To Do
in Lupane
Lupane is a town in the Matabeleland North Province of Zimbabwe, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It serves as the administrative center for the Lupane District and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and wildlife. The town is characterized by a friendly atmosphere, where visitors can experience the local customs and traditions of the Ndebele people.
Lupane is also a gateway to several national parks and scenic areas, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Lupane Cultural Museum to learn about the history and traditions of the Ndebele people.
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local eatery before visiting the nearby Lupane College, where you can engage with students and faculty about their educational programs.
Dine at the famous Sithandazile Restaurant, known for its authentic local cuisine.
Embark on an early morning game drive in the nearby Hwange National Park, a two-hour drive from Lupane.
Return to Lupane for a picnic lunch at the Lupane Dam, where you can enjoy the serene views and local wildlife.
Conclude your trip with a relaxing evening at a local bar, enjoying traditional music and dance performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $5 - $10 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $30 - $50 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (within town) | $1 - $3 |
| 🚌Bus ticket (to nearby city) | $2 - $5 |
| 🥤Local beer | $1 - $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and wildlife.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities for tourists.
- Public transportation can be unreliable.
- Nightlife options are minimal.
- "Salibonani" - Hello
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Uxolo" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Hamba kahle" - Go well/Goodbye
Places to Visit in Lupane
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque location ideal for landscape photography, especially during sunset.
Offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Ndebele culture, perfect for capturing traditional artifacts.
A short drive from Lupane, this park is great for wildlife photography, featuring elephants, lions, and diverse flora.
Food in Lupane
Lupane Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple food made from ground maize, often served with various relishes such as meat, vegetables, or gravy.
Must-Try!
Dried, cured meat that is a popular snack, often enjoyed with beer.
Small fish that are fried and served with sadza, providing a unique taste of local cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, spices, and traditional snacks.
You can find vendors selling grilled meats and fried snacks along the main roads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is customary when meeting locals, and it's polite to greet everyone in the group.
Always show respect to older individuals, addressing them with appropriate titles.
When visiting rural areas or cultural sites, dress modestly to show respect for local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Lupane
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip service providers, about 10% for restaurants and bars.
Cash is preferred; however, some establishments accept mobile payments and card transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot temperatures and the possibility of rain, making it ideal for lush landscapes.
Mild temperatures and dry weather, perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
Cool temperatures and dry conditions, suitable for clear skies and star-gazing.
Warm weather with blooming flora and active wildlife, a great time for photography.
Lupane at Night
Hiking in Lupane
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail located near Hwange National Park, offering a moderate hike with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
A shorter trail within the Lupane region, perfect for leisurely hikes and birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Lupane by plane.
Located approximately 120 kilometers from Lupane, this airport serves domestic and some international flights, providing convenient access to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Ndebele people are the predominant ethnic group in Lupane, known for their rich cultural traditions and vibrant artwork.
A significant number of Shona people also reside in the area, contributing to the cultural diversity and social fabric of the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a beloved sport in Lupane, with local teams and community leagues actively participating in matches.
Netball is popular among women and girls in the region, with many local clubs and schools promoting the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lupane.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though options may be limited.
Halal food may not be widely available, so it's advisable to inquire in advance.