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Things to Do in Bulawayo

Things to Do in Bulawayo

Bulawayo Bulawayo, Zimbabwe Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures: Exploring Matabeleland's Wilderness

These things to do connect you with the unique landscape and wildlife of the region.

Matobo Hills Hiking & Tracking

Rhodes Grave World's View

A relatively easy walk to a panoramic viewpoint where Cecil Rhodes is buried. The trail is well-regarded-maintained, and the vistas are expansive.

Pomongwe Cave

A short, easy walk to this cave, which features significant ancient San rock paintings. Accessibility makes it suitable for most visitors.

Guided Rhino Tracking

Often a moderate wander through the bush. The difficulty depends on how far you walk to locate the rhinos. This activity needs an experienced guide.

Adventure Sports & Wildlife

  • Cliff Scaling (Matobo Hills): Opportunities for experienced climbers on granite formations. Often needs special licenses and local expertise.
  • Cycling: Limited dedicated routes in Bulawayo. Recreational cycling is safer on more peaceful roads in suburbs or parts of Matobo Hills.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Matobo Hills National Park is known for its black and white rhino population. Guided strolls or drives feature good opportunities to see these animals.
  • Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage: Direct encounters with rescued animals in a sanctuary setting, including lions, leopards, and various bird species.

Water Sports

  • Limited water sports directly in Bulawayo.
  • Some nearby dams have opportunities for fishing.
  • Limited recreational boating.
  • Commercial water sports are not a prominent feature.

Adventure Tip

  • Embark on a guided rhino tracking experience in Matobo Hills.
  • It is a powerful, intimate wildlife encounter.
  • You will not find it in many other places.
  • A highly suggested activity.

Serious Hiking

  • For longer, more strenuous treks across the granite landscape.
  • Hiring a local guide is advisable.
  • Guides know the terrain, safe routes, and ecology.

Safety Note for Hiking

For serious hiking or rock climbing, special permits from park authorities and local expertise for direction and safety are often needed.

Cultural Immersion: Connecting with Bulawayo's Heritage

Bulawayo possesses several pathways for cultural immersion, letting you connect directly with the local heritage, arts, and community life.

Workshops & Performances

  • Amakhosi Cultural Centre: Sometimes workshops or cultural performances for Ndebele dance, music, and drama. Inquire directly.
  • National Gallery: From time to time hosts classes or demonstrations by local artists.
  • Local Artisan Markets: Interact with artisans, observe their work, and learn about techniques.
  • Cultural Performances: Some lodges arrange cultural performances. Local festivals often have classic shows.

Community & Language

Community-Based Tourism

Local NGOs or tour operators might simplify visits to rural villages. Learn about daily life and traditional practices. Check ethical practices before joining.

Language Learning

Formal classes for tourists are hard to find. Learning basic Ndebele or Shona phrases (e.g., "Sawubona" for hello) will greatly improve interactions.

Cultural Festivals

Bulawayo hosts different local events. Check local event listings for music concerts, art exhibitions, or community gatherings. The Intwasa Cultural Festival KoBulawayo (usually September) sometimes has food elements.

Ethical Tourism

If considering community visits, confirm the ethical practices of any tour group to ensure your visit benefits locals.

Language Tip

Learning a few basic Ndebele sayings like "Sawubona" (hello) and "Ngiyabonga" (thank you). Locals appreciate the effort and it fosters positive interactions.

Festival Info

Look at local schedules of events for any cultural festivals or community gatherings during your visit for real understanding.

Relaxation & Wellness: Finding Serenity in Bulawayo

Even though it isn't a main well-litness destination, Bulawayo has options for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Wellness Facilities

  • Spa & Wellness Centers: Limited standalone, high-end spa facilities. Some larger hotels have basic spa services like massage treatments.
  • Hot Springs & Natural Therapy: No prominent spa springs or natural therapy options directly in or near Bulawayo for tourism.
  • Yoga & Meditation: Not a common offering. Organized retreats for tourists are rare.
  • Traditional Healing: Traditional healers (N'angas) are part of Zimbabwean culture. Approaching for tourism needs cultural sensitivity and a trusted local guide.

Pool & Recreation

Swimming Pools

Lots of mid-priced-range to luxury guesthouses and hotels have swimming pools for guest use. They create a refreshing option for relaxation, particularly in the warmer months.

Landlocked City

Bulawayo is a landlocked city and does not have beaches. Pool clubs are within hotel premises.

Recommendation

Select a small hotel with a swimming pool. It is a refreshing way to unwind and cool down after a day of sightseeing.

Unwind and Recharge

After Sightseeing

Pools offer a calming contrast to adventure activities and a way to unwind.

Inquire for Services

Check with your accommodation about available wellness facilities or partnerships with local spas.

Beyond Bulawayo

For specific wellness retreats or natural hot springs, other zones of Zimbabwe may be more suitable.

Entertainment & Nightlife: Bulawayo After Dark

Bulawayo has a modest but present evening entertainment scene. From live music to theatre and late-night spots, options are present for those seeking evening diversion.

Live Music & Theatre

  • Live Music Venues: Local pubs and bars could have live bands playing Afro-jazz, gospel, or contemporary music.
  • Check local listings or ask your accommodation for live music schedules.
  • Bulawayo Theatre: The main venue for theatrical productions, hosting local plays, touring shows, and musical acts.
  • Amakhosi Cultural Centre: Has conventional and contemporary Ndebele theatre and dance performances.

Nightclubs & Bars

Nightclubs

Bulawayo possesses a few nightclubs, mainly in the city center. They play local and international music, with possibilities for dancing.

Bar Districts

The city center has a concentration of bars and pubs for an informal pub crawl. Larger suburban hotels also have popular bars.

Late-Night Options

Restaurants commonly close by 10:00 PM. Bars and nightclubs may operate later. Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing services for transport. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit locations in the evening.

Energetic Nightlife

Nightclubs become active later in the evening, offering chances for dancing and a more energetic experience.

Social Scenes

Pubs and bars create relaxed atmospheres for drinks and conversation, attracting both guests and locals.

Local Music

To get a taste of local music, ask your guesthouse staff for recommendations on pubs or bars featuring live musical acts. A great method to experience local talent.

Nightlife Tips

Safety First
  • Use reputable taxis or ride-sharing services for transport after dark.
  • Avoid walking alone in dimly lit places late at night.
  • The city's nightlife tends to be more subdued than larger capitals.
What to Expect
  • Check schedules for Bulawayo Theatre and Amakhosi Cultural Center.
  • Live music groups often play a range of Zimbabwean music.
  • Experience community social life in pubs and bars.

Experience Local Talent

For a taste of local music, ask your b&b staff for recommendations on pubs or bars featuring live bands. A good way to experience regional talent and the urban area's social fabric after dark.

Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs and Local Goods

Traditional Markets & Souvenirs

  • Bulawayo City Market (Egodini Market): A bustling hub for fresh produce, clothing, and household goods. Stay watchful with belongings due to crowds.
  • Mpopoma Flea Market: Large market in Mpopoma suburb. Find second-hand goods, clothes, and some local crafts. A more relaxed browsing experience.
  • Souvenir Recommendations: Stone and wood carvings (traditional Zimbabwean art), hand-woven baskets, and curios (small trinkets).
  • Bargaining: At informal markets, polite bargaining is acceptable. Prices in formal shops are generally fixed.

Artisan & Ethical Shopping

  • Artisan Workshops: Smaller craft stalls near famous visitor attractions or within city center areas. Sell handcrafted goods directly from artisans.
  • Luxury & Boutique Shopping: Minimal alternatives, generally in major shopping malls (e.g., Bradfield, Zonk'izizwe) or luxury hotels. Imported goods or higher-end local fashion.
  • Ethical Shopping: Focus on purchasing directly from creators or cooperatives that give fair wages. Avoid purchasing items made from endangered or protected wildlife.
  • Shipping & Customs: Inquire about shipping for large or fragile items. Retain receipts for proof of buy and origin. Be aware of your home country's customs regulations.