Bulawayo

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bulawayo's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Natural History Museum, where you'll discover the rich biodiversity of Zimbabwe. Enjoy a leisurely walk in the nearby Centenary Park afterwards.

afternoon
:

Head to the Bulawayo Railway Museum to see some historic locomotives and learn about the city's railway history. Grab a bite at a local café nearby for an authentic taste of Bulawayo.

evening
:

Relax with a sunset at the local park, soaking in the vibrant colors of the sky. Consider dining at a restaurant offering traditional Zimbabwean cuisine.

day 2
Safari Adventure
morning
:

Take an early drive to Matobo National Park for a chance to see the Big Five in their natural habitat. Enjoy a guided walking tour to explore the unique rock formations and historical caves.

afternoon
:

Continue your safari experience with a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Look out for wildlife as you finish your afternoon with some small hikes.

evening
:

Return to Bulawayo and unwind at your accommodation. Enjoy a quiet dinner, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

day 3
Culture and Craft
morning
:

Visit the Bulawayo Art Gallery to appreciate both contemporary and traditional Zimbabwean art. Engage with local artists and get insights into their creative processes.

afternoon
:

Spend time at the local craft markets, where you can buy handmade souvenirs and support local artisans. Don’t forget to sample street food for a taste of local flavors.

evening
:

Catch a cultural performance at a local theater or community center. Enjoy a meal at a restaurant featuring live music for a great end to your day.

day 4
Nature Trails
morning
:

Visit the Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the ancient city remains and learn about the history. Enjoy the scenic walk around the site amidst beautiful landscapes.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Hillside Dams for a relaxing afternoon of bird watching or picnicking. Take time to enjoy nature and watch local wildlife.

evening
:

Return to the city and enjoy a dinner at a restaurant with a view of the dams. Reflect on the peaceful moments spent in nature.

day 5
Art and History
morning
:

Start at the Bulawayo Museum to delve into the area’s cultural heritage and history. Explore interactive exhibits that detail the lives of historical figures from Zimbabwe.

afternoon
:

Visit local galleries showcasing contemporary works by Zimbabwean artists. Interact with artists and perhaps attend a workshop if available.

evening
:

Dine in a trendy café within the city center. Enjoy a relaxed evening discussing the art and history you’ve explored.

day 6
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin your day at the picturesque Matobo Hills for rock climbing and scenic views. Engage with local guides who can share stories about the area.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch and go hiking, discovering unique flora and fauna along the trails. The trails offer fantastic viewpoints to rest and enjoy nature.

evening
:

Return to Bulawayo for a well-deserved dinner. Look for places that offer a mix of local and international cuisines to savor the flavors.

day 7
Wildlife Encounters
morning
:

Spend the morning visiting a local wildlife sanctuary. Get an up-close look at various species and learn about conservation efforts in the region.

afternoon
:

Participate in an interactive wildlife experience where you may feed or walk with specific animals. This hands-on activity will enrich your understanding of wildlife preservation.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant known for its organic farm-to-table options. Reflect on the unique interactions you had with animals throughout the day.

day 8
Discover Local Heritage
morning
:

Visit the Old Bulawayo site to discover reconstructed huts and learn about the Ndebele culture. Engage with guides who can recount stories of the area’s history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a traditional eatery and immerse yourself in local flavors. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Mzilikazi Arts and Craft Centre to see artisans at work.

evening
:

Attend a local concert or cultural event if available. Experience the vibrant entertainment scene of Bulawayo while enjoying dinner.

day 9
Relax by the River
morning
:

Take a drive to the nearby Zambezi River for a relaxing morning. Enjoy birdwatching or simply the tranquil atmosphere of the riverbanks.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a riverside picnic, surrounded by nature. Consider taking a boat ride for a different perspective of the area’s beauty.

evening
:

Head back to Bulawayo for dinner at a restaurant with special river-themed cuisine. Reflect on the day’s serene experience at the river.

day 10
Fun Family Day
morning
:

Start your day at a local zoo to introduce your family to Zimbabwe's wildlife. Enjoy interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities.

afternoon
:

Visit a family park for fun games and leisure activities. Enjoy a packed lunch together in the park, fostering family bonding.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with a movie night at a local cinema. Have dinner at a restaurant with a children's menu for an enjoyable family experience.

Discover Bulawayo

Read more in our Bulawayo 2024 Travel Guide.

Bulawayo Travel Guide