Things To Do
in Kwekwe
Kwekwe is a central Zimbabwean town built around mining and industry, set among rolling hills and the Kwekwe River. It blends a gritty industrial heritage with a lively market atmosphere and friendly, approachable residents. The town serves as a practical base for exploring the Midlands, with easy day trips to nature reserves, historical sites, and nearby towns.
Today it offers a pragmatic, welcoming vibe where visitors can experience traditional Zimbabwean hospitality alongside everyday urban life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kwekwe Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the area. The museum showcases a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the Great Zimbabwe civilization. Don't forget to grab a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, enjoying local dishes like sadza and nyama.
After lunch, take a stroll through the vibrant streets of Kwekwe, exploring local shops and markets that display handmade crafts and artwork. Engage with local artisans, learning about their crafts and the cultural significance behind their work. Visit the nearby Kwekwe River for a peaceful afternoon by the water, where you can relax and enjoy the natural scenery.
As evening approaches, dine at a local restaurant known for its traditional Zimbabwean cuisine, where you can savor dishes like biltong and mopane worms. After dinner, catch a live music performance at a local venue, experiencing the vibrant culture through the sounds of traditional instruments. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the town, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the starry sky.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to Antelope Park, renowned for its wildlife experiences. Participate in an early morning guided walk where you can observe lions in their natural habitat and learn about their conservation efforts. The fresh air and sounds of nature will invigorate your spirit as you prepare for a day of adventure.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the stunning scenery and wildlife. Afterward, take part in a thrilling horse-riding safari, where you can explore the park from a different perspective while spotting various animals. The afternoon sun creates incredible lighting for photography, so be sure to capture the beauty of the landscape.
As the sun sets, join a sunset cruise on the river, where you can relax and take in the breathtaking views. The tranquil waters and rich colors of the sunset create a perfect backdrop for unwinding after an adventurous day. Dinner will be served at the park's lodge, featuring an array of local dishes while you share stories of your day's encounters.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🧊Bottle of water (0.5 liter) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕1 km of local taxi travel | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in a cafe | $1-2 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center, per month) | $180-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly people and a welcoming, laid-back vibe
- Reasonably priced food and markets with fresh produce
- Limited infrastructure in some areas and variable service standards
- Hinterland travel can require transport planning
- "Mhoro" - Hello
- "Ndatenda" - Thank you
- "Ndapota" - Please
- "Zvinodhura zvakadii?" - How much does this cost?
- "Uchandibatsira here?" - Will you help me?
Places to Visit in Kwekwe
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour views of markets and the city skyline with a mix of commercial and informal architecture.
Lush riverbank scenes, birds, and reflections ideal for nature and street photography.
Industrial silhouettes against the sky; great for urban landscape shots.
Sweeping panoramas of the Midlands countryside and distant hills.
Food in Kwekwe
Kwekwe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cornmeal porridge served with a rich beef stew and leafy greens.
Must-Try!
Vegetables in peanut sauce served with sadza.
Charcoal-grilled meat served with sides and relish.
Dried fish often paired with sadza and vegetables.
Protein-rich edible caterpillars, commonly sautéed with onions and peppers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh produce, meats, and prepared street snacks.
Roasted corn, peanuts, and snack portions around the market lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and handshake; addressing elders with respect is common.
Ask permission before taking individuals' photos; be mindful of sensitive sites.
Dress modestly in public spaces and while visiting religious or cultural sites.
Safety
Tipping in Kwekwe
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip around 5-10% for good service; not always included in bills.
Cash in USD or local currency; mobile money like EcoCash widely used; card acceptance varies; ATMs available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with frequent showers; keep hydrated, plan outdoor activities early morning or late afternoon.
Drying air and pleasant temperatures; ideal for city walks and outdoor markets.
Cool to mild days with cool evenings; pack a light jacket.
Warm days returning; some rain can occur; good for outdoor hikes.
Kwekwe at Night
Hiking in Kwekwe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short ascent offering city views and birdlife; suitable for a dawn hike.
A scenic loop through rocky outcrops and rural surroundings, about 20 minutes from town.
Riverside path with shaded banks and wildlife, ideal for a moderate day walk.
Airports
How to reach Kwekwe by plane.
Main international gateway for Zimbabwe; about a few hours by road from Kwekwe, with domestic flights to local hubs.
Nearby domestic airport serving regional flights and charters; a handy option for faster access to central Zimbabwe.
Major international hub for connections; frequent regional flights and frequent connections to Zimbabwe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority ethnic group; typical Zimbabwean cultural influence.
Regional cultural traditions and languages contributing to local diversity.
Community of temporary residents and traders from neighboring countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with local leagues and community games.
Followed in schools and clubs, with weekend matches in the Midlands region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kwekwe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose sadza with muriwo or legumes; ask for peanut-free sauces and avoid meat-based broths.