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Bulawayo is the second-largest city in Zimbabwe, after Harare, and serves as the capital of Matabeleland. The city is often called “KoBulawayo” in the local Ndebele language, meaning “the place of killing” — a name that dates back to ancient tribal wars. But don’t be misled by its fierce-sounding name; today, Bulawayo is a peaceful, friendly, and historically significant city that welcomes travelers with open arms.
The city has a calm, laid-back vibe compared to Harare, yet it’s vibrant in culture and heritage. Wide tree-lined avenues, neat colonial-era buildings, and open public spaces make it one of the most beautifully planned cities in southern Africa. It’s also a gateway to Zimbabwe’s major attractions like the Matobo National Park, Hwange National Park, and even Victoria Falls, making it a great base for travelers.
Bulawayo is located in the southwestern part of Zimbabwe, about 440 kilometers from the capital, Harare. It lies on the highveld plateau at an elevation of around 1,350 meters (4,429 feet) above sea level. This elevation gives it a mild climate, making it comfortable throughout most of the year.
The city is well connected by road and rail, serving as a commercial and industrial hub in the region. It’s also conveniently located near several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which makes it an excellent stopover for travelers exploring Zimbabwe’s cultural and natural treasures.
The surrounding landscape is a mix of rolling savannah, rocky outcrops, and ancient hills — particularly the famous Matobo Hills, which are just 35 kilometers away. These granite formations create one of the most beautiful natural settings in the country and are deeply linked to Zimbabwe’s cultural and spiritual history.
Bulawayo’s roots run deep into Zimbabwe’s past. The city was founded in the late 19th century by King Lobengula, the last ruler of the Ndebele Kingdom. He established his royal kraal (capital) near what is now Bulawayo, and it became a powerful center of the Ndebele nation before British colonization.
When British forces occupied the area in 1893 during the Matabele War, they rebuilt the town as a colonial settlement. The British South Africa Company, led by Cecil Rhodes, played a major role in transforming Bulawayo into an important administrative and commercial center.
Walking through the city today, you can still see traces of its colonial and African heritage side by side. Old railway workshops, red-brick buildings, and Art Deco-style architecture tell stories of a bygone era. Yet, modern cafés, cultural markets, and art galleries show a city that has evolved gracefully with time.
One of Bulawayo’s most striking features is its architecture. Travelers often compare it to small European towns because of its neat grid layout and colonial-era buildings. The city’s design, with wide roads and spacious parks, reflects British planning ideals of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Key architectural highlights include:
Bulawayo Railway Museum: A must-visit for history and train lovers. The museum displays old steam engines and carriages, including Cecil Rhodes’ personal train coach.
Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe: One of the finest museums in Africa, showcasing geology, wildlife, and the cultural history of the country.
City Hall and Main Post Office: Located in the heart of Bulawayo, these colonial structures are great examples of pre-independence architecture and civic planning.
St. Mary’s Cathedral: A beautiful example of Gothic Revival style that adds to the city’s historic charm.
As you stroll through the downtown area, the city feels like a living museum — elegant yet alive with local vendors, street musicians, and the hum of daily life.
What makes Bulawayo special is its people — friendly, proud, and deeply connected to their Ndebele roots. The city is a cultural hub for art, crafts, and traditional music. Travelers can experience the rhythm of Ndebele dances, colorful beadwork, and handmade pottery in the city’s markets and craft centers.
Don’t miss the Bulawayo National Art Gallery, which features both traditional and contemporary African art. It’s a great place to see Zimbabwe’s artistic evolution through time.
The Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre just outside the city is another hidden gem where you can watch artisans at work and even buy authentic souvenirs.
Bulawayo is perfectly placed for nature lovers. Within an hour’s drive, you can explore incredible landscapes, ancient rock art, and wildlife.
Matobo National Park: Just 35 km away, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its unique granite hills, ancient San (Bushmen) rock paintings, and spiritual caves. It’s also the final resting place of Cecil Rhodes. The park offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and rhino tracking.
Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage: A great place for families, this sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates injured animals, offering a close-up view of Zimbabwe’s wildlife.
Khami Ruins: Located about 20 km west of Bulawayo, these ancient stone ruins were once the capital of the Torwa Kingdom and are now a UNESCO-listed archaeological site.
Hwange National Park: Around 3 hours away, this is Zimbabwe’s largest national park, home to elephants, lions, and hundreds of bird species.
The best time to visit Bulawayo is during the dry season (May to October) when the weather is cool and pleasant. The days are sunny, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. During this period, wildlife viewing in nearby parks is also at its best because animals gather around water sources.
The rainy season (November to April) brings lush greenery but occasional heavy rains. It’s still a good time for cultural tours and city exploration, as temperatures remain moderate year-round.
If you want to witness local festivities, plan your trip around Independence Day (April 18) or local cultural festivals in September, which showcase Ndebele dances and crafts.
Currency: The US Dollar and Zimbabwean Dollar are both used widely.
Language: English is the main language for communication, but isiNdebele and Shona are also spoken.
Transport: Taxis, minibuses, and car rentals are available. The city is easy to navigate on foot in the central area.
Safety: Bulawayo is considered one of the safest cities in Zimbabwe, though basic precautions are always advisable.
Food: Try local dishes like sadza, nyama (grilled meat), and kapenta fish. Restaurants such as Deja Vu and The Nesbitt Castle offer both local and international cuisines.
Bulawayo’s charm lies in its authenticity. It’s not overly commercialized — it’s real, historic, and filled with character. The pace is relaxed, the people are welcoming, and the city has a deep cultural soul that stays with you long after you leave.
From walking through its colonial streets to exploring the sacred Matobo Hills, Bulawayo offers a journey through time — one that connects you to Africa’s rich past and vibrant present. For travelers seeking something more meaningful than typical tourist hotspots, this city is a rare gem waiting to be discovered.
In short:
Bulawayo is where history breathes through architecture, nature whispers from nearby hills, and every sunset paints a memory on the traveler’s heart. Visit once, and you will understand why it’s called “The City of Kings.”
