Find hotels in Bulawayo from £24

Top reasons to visit Bulawayo

• Outdoor Adventures: Bulawayo is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like wild encounter safaris and scenic weekend getaways.
• Cultural Heritage: Explore the rich cultural history at the Natural History Museum and Bulawayo Railway Museum.
• Stunning Landscapes: Nearby Matobo National Park features breathtaking scenery, ideal for nature lovers.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The city provides lively fairgrounds and recreational areas suitable for family fun.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from charming lodges and guesthouses catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels in Bulawayo

Bulawayo offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from charming lodges to inviting guesthouses. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly retreat, a pet-friendly getaway, or a business-focused stay, you'll discover numerous hotels that cater to diverse needs. With its unique blend of comfort and convenience, Bulawayo is an ideal destination for travellers looking to explore this vibrant city and its beautiful surroundings.

• Holiday Inn Bulawayo by IHG: This 4-star hotel is an excellent choice for business travellers seeking a professional and comfortable environment. Located in the heart of Bulawayo, it features extensive business amenities, including multiple meeting rooms, a fully equipped business centre, and accessible conference spaces. Guests appreciate the modern design and attentive service, making it an ideal venue for both work and relaxation. With its strategic location, it provides easy access to the city’s business hubs and attractions, ensuring a seamless stay.
• Bulawayo Rainbow Hotel: A 3-star gem in Bulawayo, the Bulawayo Rainbow Hotel caters to those looking for a balanced blend of business and leisure. Its well-appointed facilities, including a dedicated business centre and meeting rooms, make it a practical choice for corporate guests. The hotel’s inviting atmosphere, combined with its convenient location, ensures that visitors can easily explore the local culture and attractions after a productive day. Guests often highlight the friendly staff and comfortable accommodations as key reasons to return.
• The N1 Hotel Bulawayo: Offering a unique lodging experience, The N1 Hotel Bulawayo focuses on comfort and convenience. While it does not carry a star rating, it stands out with its dining options, including a breakfast restaurant that serves a hearty full breakfast. Guests can unwind in their rooms equipped with satellite and plasma television for entertainment. The hotel’s informal yet welcoming ambience makes it a favourite among visitors seeking a relaxed stay without compromising on amenities.

Where to stay near Bulawayo

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second-largest city, offers a delightful blend of adventure and history, making it perfect for family vacations and outdoor enthusiasts. Discover the rich cultural heritage at the Natural History Museum or explore the stunning landscapes of Matobo National Park nearby. With its charming atmosphere and vibrant neighbourhoods, Bulawayo is the ideal getaway for travellers seeking unique experiences and unforgettable spots to explore.

• Matopos: Situated 18.0km from Bulawayo, Matopos is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This captivating area boasts stunning scenery, attracting visitors particularly in April and during the July to August peak seasons. The Matobo National Park offers a fantastic backdrop for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. Additionally, the recreational areas and fairgrounds provide fun and entertainment for families. With its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, Matopos promises an unforgettable escape into nature.
• Southdale: Nestled within the vicinity of Bulawayo, Southdale is a quaint village that offers a unique glimpse into local life. It experiences moderately seasonal tourist arrivals, peaking in April, October, and December. While it may not have the bustling attractions of larger cities, Southdale’s charm lies in its tranquil atmosphere and friendly community. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through the village, engage with locals, and experience the simplicity of rural Zimbabwean life. This serene location serves as a perfect base for exploring the surrounding areas.

Things to do in Bulawayo

Bulawayo is a fantastic destination for outdoor adventures and family holidays, offering a range of activities such as cultural tours, wild encounter safaris, and weekend getaways. Visitors can enjoy the lively fairground and recreational areas, perfect for both relaxation and excitement. Additionally, day trips and weekend adventures provide ample opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich heritage of this vibrant city.

Shopping

In Bulawayo, explore local markets like the Bulawayo Market for vibrant crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Ascot Shopping Centre for a mix of retail and dining options, or the Westgate Shopping Mall for more extensive shopping experiences.

Recreation

Queens Sports Club offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, perfect for engaging in various recreational activities. Meanwhile, Barbourfields Stadium is a hub of energy, where you can immerse yourself in the local sports culture and enjoy thrilling matches surrounded by passionate fans.

Adventure

Explore Matobo National Park, renowned for its stunning granite rock formations and diverse wildlife. Engage in thrilling activities like hiking, wildlife viewing, and cave painting tours. The park offers a unique blend of adventure and cultural heritage, making it an unforgettable experience in Bulawayo.

Visit the Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to discover ancient stone structures and learn about the fascinating history of the region. This archaeological site provides a captivating backdrop for exploration and reflection amidst its impressive ruins.

Experience a ride on the Bulawayo to Victoria Falls Railway for a scenic journey through beautiful landscapes. The vintage train offers a unique perspective of the countryside and is a delightful way to enjoy the journey to one of the world’s most famous waterfalls.

Join a guided tour to the Big Five Wildlife Sanctuary for an exhilarating safari experience. Encounter elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos in their natural habitat, making for unforgettable wildlife photography opportunities and an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

Nightlife

In Bulawayo, The Vista Bar offers stunning views and live music, perfect for a relaxed evening. The City Club is known for its vibrant atmosphere and dance nights, while The Lounge provides a chic spot for cocktails and socialising, ensuring a memorable nightlife experience.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bulawayo

To save on your trip to Bulawayo, plan to visit during February, May, or October when prices are lower, and aim for a Monday stay, as Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly accommodations, organising results from lowest to highest. Consider eco-certified hotels for sustainable options, and explore package deals that combine hotels with flights and activities for further savings. Don’t forget to check platforms like Momondo for competitive hotel deals and comparisons to ensure the best rates available.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Bulawayo are February, May and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Bulawayo is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Bulawayo is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You might find it worthwhile to save some money by combining your hotel reservation in Bulawayo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Bulawayo

Bulawayo offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences, making it ideal for family vacations. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Bulawayo Railway Museum, the historic railway, and the Bulawayo Golf Club. Additionally, nearby national parks and modern universities add to the city's charm, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy in and around Bulawayo.

• Zimbabwe International Trade Fair: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this fairground, which hosts numerous exhibitions and events throughout the year. It's a fantastic opportunity for families to engage with local culture and commerce, all in a lively outdoor setting.
• City Hall: Marvel at the stunning architecture of this historic civic building, a symbol of Bulawayo's rich heritage. The City Hall is a hub of cultural activities and events, offering a glimpse into the city's history and community spirit.
• Centenary Park: Enjoy a leisurely day in this urban park, perfect for families looking to unwind. With beautiful greenery and recreational areas, it’s an ideal spot for picnics, strolls, and enjoying the city's outdoors.

Best time to go to Bulawayo

The best time to visit Bulawayo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Bulawayo falls in November, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Bulawayo falls in July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry).

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	70.9°F (21.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	66.4°F (19.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	58.6°F (14.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
August	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
September	70.9°F (21.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	74.3°F (23.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
December	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Bulawayo

Flying into Bulawayo is convenient via Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ), situated 5.0km from the city. A notable hotel option nearby is the Holiday Inn Bulawayo by IHG, which is a 4-star establishment located 6.2km away and offers a 24-hour airport shuttle service for a fee. Other accommodations include Motsamai Lodge and Parrot Lodge, both rated at 3.5 stars and located 12 and 6.8km from the airport, respectively, with Motsamai Lodge providing airport transportation for a fee. These hotels ensure easy access for visitors arriving in Bulawayo.