Where to Stay in Bulawayo
Zimbabwe
|Pop. 666K
|3 neighborhoods covered
Bulawayo at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Bulawayo
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Visit the Tshabalala Nature Reserve for a more accessible wildlife experience close to the city, often overlooked by tourists heading straight to Matopos.
Getting Around
Always confirm the fare with your taxi driver before starting the journey; agree on a price beforehand.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by unlicensed taxis.
Solo Female Travel
Generally safe, but exercise standard precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and trust your instincts. Nighttime solo travel in less populated areas should be avoided.
Hidden Gems in Bulawayo
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Centenary Park
FREEA large, green urban park perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. It features a rose garden, a small dam, and the Bulawayo National Museum, offering a peaceful escape within the city.
Nesbitt Castle
Step back in time at this unique medieval-style castle, which also operates as a hotel and restaurant. Enjoy a drink in its atmospheric bar for a truly distinctive Bulawayo experience.
Bulawayo Art Gallery
Showcasing contemporary and traditional Zimbabwean art, this gallery offers a vibrant glimpse into the country's artistic talent. It's a great place to find unique sculptures and paintings.
Hillside Dams Conservation Area
FREEA beautiful natural area with walking trails around scenic dams, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the Zimbabwean bush. It's a popular spot for locals seeking outdoor recreation.
Khami National Monument
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Khami showcases the ruins of a former capital of the Torwa dynasty. It's less visited than Great Zimbabwe but offers fascinating insights into ancient history.
The Smokehouse
A local favorite for delicious ribs, burgers, and other smoked meats. This casual eatery is known for its generous portions and flavorful barbecue.
What It Costs in Bulawayo
Daily budget per person in ZWL
💡Premium destination pricing
ZWL 800/day
ZWL 1500/day
ZWL 3500/day
Where to Stay in Bulawayo
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Centenary Park15 min
- Bulawayo National Gallery5 min
- City Hall5 min
Pros
- +Central location with easy access to attractions
- +Good range of amenities and services
- +Hub for public transport
Cons
- -Can be noisy and crowded
- -Some areas feel dated
Top stays in City Center
Cresta Churchill Hotel
$$A well-established hotel offering comfortable rooms and good amenities.
Bulawayo Rainbow Hotel
$$Centrally located with a swimming pool and restaurant, offering a reliable stay.
The Nook Guesthouse
$$A charming guesthouse offering a more intimate and personalized experience.
Southern Comfort Lodge
$Offers affordable accommodation with clean rooms and friendly service.
Best for
Walk to
- Hillside Dams20 min
- Matopos National Park entrance45 min
Pros
- +Quiet and peaceful atmosphere
- +Beautiful green surroundings
- +Closer to natural attractions
Cons
- -Limited public transport
- -Fewer dining and shopping options within walking distance
Top stays in Hillside
The Retreat at Matopos
$$$Luxury resort offering stunning views and exceptional service, close to Matopos.
Hillside Manor
$$Elegant guesthouse set in a tranquil garden environment.
Anya Guesthouse
$$Offers well-appointed rooms in a secure and peaceful setting.
Best for
Walk to
- Local markets10 min
- Smaller parks15 min
Pros
- +More authentic local experience
- +Generally more affordable accommodation
- +Quieter than the city center
Cons
- -Fewer tourist amenities
- -Transport to the city center can be less frequent
Top stays in Suburbs (e.g., Famona, North End)
Protea Hotel by Marriott Bulawayo
$$Reliable international chain hotel with modern amenities and a restaurant.
Holiday Inn Bulawayo
$$Offers comfortable rooms and standard facilities, a familiar option for travelers.
Queens Sports Club Guesthouse
$Simple and clean accommodation, often used by visiting sports teams.
Areas to be cautious
- Industrial areas on the outskirts: These areas lack tourist infrastructure and can have higher crime rates, especially after dark.
- Very dark, unlit streets at night: Regardless of the neighborhood, unlit or deserted streets increase the risk of petty crime.
Insider tip: Visit the Tshabalala Nature Reserve for a more accessible wildlife experience close to the city, often overlooked by tourists heading straight to Matopos.
Safety in Bulawayo
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Generally safe, but exercise standard precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and trust your instincts. Nighttime solo travel in less populated areas should be avoided.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, busy areas. Taxis or rideshares are recommended for getting around after dark, especially if you are unfamiliar with the city.
Emergency
999
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by unlicensed taxis.
- 2Distraction theft (e.g., someone spills something on you, then tries to help clean it while an accomplice picks your pocket).
- 3Fake goods or services offered at inflated prices.
Getting Around Bulawayo
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Taxis are the most common option, approximately 45-60 minutes and 400-700 ZWL. Pre-booking is advised.
🎫
Day Pass
Not officially available for minibuses; pay per ride.
Single: Minibus rides typically cost 50-150 ZWL depending on distance.
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber, Bolt
📶
WiFi
Good15-30 Mbps
Public Transport
A combination of minibuses ('combis') for local travel and taxis for longer distances or specific routes. Walking is feasible in the city center.
Ride-share
Uber and Bolt operate in Bulawayo. Costs can vary, but a typical city trip might be 150-300 ZWL.
Transport Tip
Always confirm the fare with your taxi driver before starting the journey; agree on a price beforehand.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Some cafes, hotels, and shopping centers offer free Wi-Fi, though it can be slow or require a purchase.
Coworking
Limited dedicated coworking spaces; cafes and hotels are the main options. Some hotels offer business centers.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: May, Jun, Jul
Hotels & Accommodation in Bulawayo
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Who Is Bulawayo Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Provides easy access to major attractions, amenities, and transport links for a convenient introduction to Bulawayo.
Families
Offers a quieter, greener environment with proximity to nature reserves and more spacious accommodation options.
Budget Backpackers
Provides more affordable accommodation and a chance to experience local life away from the main tourist hubs.
Culture Enthusiasts
Home to key cultural sites like the National Gallery and close to historical landmarks.
Luxury Travelers
Features upscale guesthouses and resorts with beautiful surroundings and higher levels of service.
About Bulawayo
Bulawayo (, ; Northern Ndebele: Bulawayo) is the second largest city in Zimbabwe, and the largest city in the country's Matabeleland region. The city's population is disputed; the 2022 census listed it at 665,940, while the Bulawayo City Council claimed it to be about 1.2 million. Bulawayo covers an area of 546 square kilometres (211 square miles) in the western part of the country, along the Matsheumhlope River.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bulawayo
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Bulawayo Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel