Areas to Avoid in Bulawayo
Zimbabwe
|⚠️ CautionHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Bulawayo. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.
Last updated: March 2026
Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Bulawayo is generally Use Caution
2 areas to be aware of · Best areas to stay: City Center, Hillside, Suburbs (e.g., Famona, North End)
Travel Insurance for Bulawayo
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Bulawayo are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Industrial areas on the outskirts
These areas lack tourist infrastructure and can have higher crime rates, especially after dark.
🛡️ Stay here instead: City Center
The bustling heart of Bulawayo, with colonial architecture and a mix of commercial and residential spaces.
Very dark, unlit streets at night
Regardless of the neighborhood, unlit or deserted streets increase the risk of petty crime.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Hillside
An affluent residential area known for its leafy streets, large properties, and proximity to nature.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Bulawayo
Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.
Bulawayo Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Bulawayo on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Bulawayo Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Bulawayo with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Bulawayo: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Bulawayo's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Bulawayo: Scenic Excursion
Escape Bulawayo for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Bulawayo Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Bulawayo's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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Stay Safe, Explore Confidently
Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Bulawayo
Stay in a safe neighbourhood
Compare hotels in Bulawayo on Expedia
Book a guided tour
Explore Bulawayo safely with a local guide
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Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood
These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers
City Center
The bustling heart of Bulawayo, with colonial architecture and a mix of commercial and residential spaces.
Generally safe during the day, but be aware of petty theft; at night, stick to well-lit main streets and avoid walking alone.
Hillside
An affluent residential area known for its leafy streets, large properties, and proximity to nature.
Generally very safe due to its residential nature; walking at night is usually fine on main roads but can be quiet.
General Safety Tips for Bulawayo
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.
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.
Emergency Number
999
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Bulawayo
- 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.
Travel Insurance for Bulawayo
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
City Center
The bustling heart of Bulawayo, with colonial architecture and a mix of commercial and residential spaces.
Generally safe during the day, but be aware of petty theft; at night, stick to well-lit main streets and avoid walking alone.
Hillside
An affluent residential area known for its leafy streets, large properties, and proximity to nature.
Generally very safe due to its residential nature; walking at night is usually fine on main roads but can be quiet.
Suburbs (e.g., Famona, North End)
Established residential areas offering a mix of housing, local shops, and a sense of community.
Daytime is generally safe in populated areas; nighttime can be quiet, so it's best to use transport or stick to main roads.
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.
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