Bulawayo Hotels

Bulawayo Unveiled: A Tapestry of Nature, History, and Hidden Wonders

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, a vibrant city steeped in history, offers a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. Known as the City of Kings, its key attractions include the fascinating Natural History Museum, showcasing the region's wildlife and heritage, and the impressive railway museum, a nod to the city’s colonial past. Explore the serene beauty of the city’s lush gardens or venture to the nearby Matobo National Park, home to stunning rock formations and ancient rock art. With its warm hospitality and rich traditions, Bulawayo promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

Discover great hotels near Bulawayo

Bulawayo hotel options offer a mix of cosy guesthouses and stylish hotels, with many providing easy access to city attractions and local culture. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly stays to more upscale options, ensuring a comfortable base for exploring Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Here are some of the best hotels near Bulawayo that our travelers love:

1. Matobo Hills LodgeOpens in a new window: This 3.5-star lodge offers an exceptional getaway for leisure travellers seeking distinctive experiences and top-notch comfort. Boasting a high guest rating and an array of appealing amenities, it features a stylish setting complemented by curated local adventures. Guests appreciate the excellent service and the unique charm of its setting, making it a favourite for those seeking a seamless, high-quality journey with express check-in and exclusive experiences.
2. Holiday Inn Bulawayo by IHGOpens in a new window: This 4.0-star hotel provides a luxurious retreat for leisure travellers who desire comfort and sophistication. With a commendable guest rating and an inviting ambience, the property stands out with its spacious, clean rooms and high-end features such as a rooftop bar, infinity pool, and a fine dining restaurant. The atmosphere exudes refined elegance and offers a smooth, curated experience for those who value a modern, boutique setting and express airport transfers.
3. Musketeers LodgeOpens in a new window: This 3.5-star guesthouse is ideal for leisure travellers looking for a charming and boutique escape. With a solid guest rating and a range of dining options available, it delights visitors with its stylish architectural design and carefully curated experiences. The property shines with a cosy yet refined ambience, featuring express check-in and a focus on high-quality, smooth journeys that deliver an unforgettable, luxurious stay.

Where to stay in and around Bulawayo

Some of the best areas to stay in Bulawayo are Southdale, Highmount, and Matopos. Southdale offers a vibrant local atmosphere, while Highmount is known for its scenic views and tranquillity. Matopos is a natural wonder, featuring Matobo National Park and historical rock art. For first-time visitors, Southdale is the most appealing option, providing easy access to local culture and amenities.

1. SouthdaleOpens in a new window: Southdale is a popular choice for travellers seeking a comfortable base with a good mix of shopping and cultural attractions. The area offers a vibrant setting with plenty of local shopping experiences and easy access to a range of cultural attractions that create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Its convenient location means you can explore nearby points of interest with ease, making it a great option for visitors who value a blend of modern amenities and local charm.
2. HighmountOpens in a new window: Highmount is another attractive stay for visitors to Bulawayo, offering a balance between local shopping experiences and a cozy community feel. It is well-regarded for its accessible local shops and a selection of cultural venues that provide a friendly, welcoming vibe. The area is ideal for those looking to enjoy a more grounded experience while still having access to a range of local attractions.
3. MatoposOpens in a new window: Matopos is a unique destination for those who appreciate natural parks and historical sites. With must-see spots like Matobo National Park, Matobo National Park Main Entrance and Rock Art Caves, the area is perfect for travellers eager to immerse themselves in Zimbabwe’s natural beauty and rich cultural history. Matopos offers a more relaxed, nature-centred setting, ideal for visitors looking to explore outdoor landmarks and historical treasures.

Things to do in and around Bulawayo

Bulawayo beckons with its charming blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Surrounded by lush parks, wildlife-rich reserves, and scenic hills, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can delight in hiking, wildlife tours, and art showcases, while the inviting gardens and serene lakes offer perfect spots for relaxation and leisurely picnics.

• Matobo National ParkOpens in a new window – Explore the vast natural beauty of this nationalStatePark, where rolling landscapes and diverse ecosystems invite you to take leisurely walks or enjoy a quiet picnic. This park is known for its blend of natural parks, museums, ruins, and gardens, offering a variety of experiences in one location.
• Matobo National Park Main EntranceOpens in a new window – Step through the main entrance of this nationalStatePark and begin your journey into the heart of Zimbabwe’s natural heritage. The entry point provides a warm welcome to visitors, setting the stage for an adventure through scenic trails and historical sites.
• Rock Art CavesOpens in a new window – Delve into the intriguing world of ancient cave paintings at the Rock Art Caves. These caves, nestled within the park’s expanse, allow you to witness the creative expressions of early inhabitants, making it a must-see for those interested in history and nature alike.
• Matobo National Park Arboretum EntranceOpens in a new window – Visit the arboretum entrance for a chance to stroll among a diverse collection of indigenous trees and plants. This area within the park is perfect for a relaxed walk, offering a closer look at the region’s botanical heritage.
• Hillside Dams ConservationOpens in a new window – Discover the Hillside Dams Conservation area, a reservePreserve that showcases a unique blend of natural parks, museums, ruins, and gardens. It presents a quieter, more contemplative setting where you can enjoy the serene environment and learn about local conservation efforts.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Bulawayo

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable times to visit Bulawayo are in February, October, and December, when hotel prices may drop. For a budget-friendly trip, it’s advisable to stay for at least 2 to 3 days to fully appreciate the city's key landmarks, cultural sites, and historical attractions. During your visit, you can explore natural parks, museums, and art galleries, as well as historical ruins and beautiful gardens. This duration allows for a well-rounded experience of Bulawayo’s rich heritage and vibrant culture, making it great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Bulawayo on Hotels.com, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. It's also wise to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, helping you seize opportunities for savings. The Smart Shopping tool, available via the app, allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options. This way, you'll be promptly notified about any price drops or room availability for a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates could assist you in finding a more economical option for your stay in a hotel in Bulawayo. For those in search of distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and can occasionally offer better value. When you make a booking through Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. Should the price be on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could lead you to a more favourable deal.
4. Consider your location: Opting for accommodation near key attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels located in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to visit. You might also look into independent hotels situated further afield, which are usually more likely to be affordable and can provide a more authentic experience.

Best time to go to Bulawayo

Bulawayo experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 57.6°F (14.2°C), while November is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 74.5°F (23.6°C). January is usually the wettest month. July, November, and December are the peak travel months in Bulawayo, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. On the other hand, February, May, and June tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.