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🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Bulawayo

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

⚠️ Caution💰 Budget: ZWL 800/day🚇 Good Transit☀️ Best: May, Jun, Jul

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in Suburbs (e.g., Famona, North End)

Provides more affordable accommodation and a chance to experience local life away from the main tourist hubs.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Bulawayo

1

Suburbs (e.g., Famona, North End)

Budget

Established residential areas offering a mix of housing, local shops, and a sense of community.

familiesbudgetsolo travelers
  • +More authentic local experience
  • +Generally more affordable accommodation
  • +Quieter than the city center
  • -Fewer tourist amenities
  • -Transport to the city center can be less frequent
🏨 Protea Hotel by Marriott Bulawayo🏨 Holiday Inn Bulawayo🏨 Queens Sports Club Guesthouse
2

City Center

Mid-range

The bustling heart of Bulawayo, with colonial architecture and a mix of commercial and residential spaces.

first-timersculturedigital nomads
  • +Central location with easy access to attractions
  • +Good range of amenities and services
  • +Hub for public transport
  • -Can be noisy and crowded
  • -Some areas feel dated
🏨 Cresta Churchill Hotel🏨 Bulawayo Rainbow Hotel🏨 The Nook Guesthouse
3

Hillside

Luxury

An affluent residential area known for its leafy streets, large properties, and proximity to nature.

familiescouplesluxury
  • +Quiet and peaceful atmosphere
  • +Beautiful green surroundings
  • +Closer to natural attractions
  • -Limited public transport
  • -Fewer dining and shopping options within walking distance
🏨 The Retreat at Matopos🏨 Hillside Manor🏨 Anya Guesthouse

Daily Budget (Budget)

ZWL 800/day

Peace Guest House dorm bedZWL 150
Street food from local vendors (e.g. sadza and relish)ZWL 100
Local bus (combis) travel around the cityZWL 50
Visit the National Museum and Art Gallery (entry fee)ZWL 100
Explore Centenary Park and the Bulawayo Main Street on footZWL 0
Dinner at a local eatery like The Coffee ShopZWL 150
Short taxi ride for convenienceZWL 50
Browse the craft markets for souvenirsZWL 100
Visit the Zimbabwe Ruins (Matopo National Park entry fee)ZWL 100
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Bulawayo

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🍜

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.

foodCity Center
⚠️

2 areas to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Bulawayo

More Bulawayo Guides

Full Bulawayo guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers