"Amazing place. Better in real life than the photos online. The rooms and overall setting was spectacular. The only thing I would suggest is to have more food options. "
"Amazing place. Better in real life than the photos online. The rooms and overall setting was spectacular. The only thing I would suggest is to have more food options. "
"Booked the place for my mother a couple of times now.She has nothing but good things to say about the place from the staff,check in process and how clean and modern the rooms are.I would definitely recommend it to anyone."
"Booked the place for my mother a couple of times now.She has nothing but good things to say about the place from the staff,check in process and how clean and modern the rooms are.I would definitely recommend it to anyone."
"I enjoyed my stay at rainbow .the rooms were clean and staff was always ready to help with smile on their faces.Breakfast was good really enjoyed it Well done and thumbs up to all the staff xxxx"
"I enjoyed my stay at rainbow .the rooms were clean and staff was always ready to help with smile on their faces.Breakfast was good really enjoyed it Well done and thumbs up to all the staff xxxx"
"Very helpful staff and the place is clean. The only issue is that the place is under renovation. It is in town center making it easy to walk around and to the shops without a need to use a car. Overall the place is good but for those who want a quiet environment it can be a bit difficult because of the loud music from the bar"
"Very helpful staff and the place is clean. The only issue is that the place is under renovation. It is in town center making it easy to walk around and to the shops without a need to use a car. Overall the place is good but for those who want a quiet environment it can be a bit difficult because of the loud music from the bar"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Climb among the ancient granite formations of Matopos National Park to see Cecil Rhodes' grave and remarkable rock art. Experienced guides lead wildlife safaris where you'll spot rhinos and eagles in their natural habitat.
The Matobo Hills Lodge is a place of absolute serenity and beauty. The lodge is designed to completely blend with the environment in such a way that you do not feel that you are intruding in an area of natural beauty. The staff were helpful and friendly from the start and could not do enough to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable. We cannot recommend this lodge highly enough.
The Matobo Hills Lodge is a place of absolute serenity and beauty. The lodge is designed to completely blend with the environment in such a way that you do not feel that you are intruding in an area of natural beauty. The staff were helpful and friendly from the start and could not do enough to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable. We cannot recommend this lodge highly enough.
Better than the photos. Beautiful lawned area with great variety of trees. Room very clean with air con, comfortable beds and huge shower room. Everyone so helpful. Liz the manager is very friendly and her chef and team excellent. Water, milk and tea provided on arrival. Fridge in room. We ate there every night. Good home cooked meals. Enjoyed pre dinner drinks at the bar.
Breakfast menu great and cooked to order. Good security. We would return if ever in Bulawayo again.
Better than the photos. Beautiful lawned area with great variety of trees. Room very clean with air con, comfortable beds and huge shower room. Everyone so helpful. Liz the manager is very friendly and her chef and team excellent. Water, milk and tea provided on arrival. Fridge in room. We ate there every night. Good home cooked meals. Enjoyed pre dinner drinks at the bar.
Breakfast menu great and cooked to order. Good security. We would return if ever in Bulawayo again.
Selborne Hotel is home away from home. Christine and team give the place a warm touch. The rooms are top notch and the Wi-Fi is excellent. However, the outside and furniture reception area look ‘tired’ and outdated. It hardly reflects the high standard of decor and modern upgrades characteristic of the rooms.
Selborne Hotel is home away from home. Christine and team give the place a warm touch. The rooms are top notch and the Wi-Fi is excellent. However, the outside and furniture reception area look ‘tired’ and outdated. It hardly reflects the high standard of decor and modern upgrades characteristic of the rooms.
We had a really lovely stay at Motsamai. It is such a beautiful, peaceful and quiet place, making it the perfect place to relax during our holiday in Bulawayo. ❤️
The gardens are beautiful and very well maintained, and the pool was a lovely place to unwind and relax after a busy day exploring.
The chef and her team were absolutely top-notch. The food was excellent, and you could really see the care and effort that went into everything they prepared for us.
The housekeeping team were also...
We had a really lovely stay at Motsamai. It is such a beautiful, peaceful and quiet place, making it the perfect place to relax during our holiday in Bulawayo. ❤️
The gardens are beautiful and very well maintained, and the pool was a lovely place to unwind and relax after a busy day exploring.
The chef and her team were absolutely top-notch. The food was excellent, and you could really see the care and effort that went into everything they prepared for us.
The housekeeping team were also...
We had a wonderful stay at Churchill Hotel in Bulawayo and were genuinely very happy with our experience. ❤️
The location was excellent for our holiday, making it easy for us to explore Bulawayo and the surrounding area. We were conveniently located for our visits to Matobo National Park, the city centre, garden centres and other places we wanted to see.
The food was one of the biggest highlights of our stay. Both breakfast and dinner were absolutely amazing! The meals were delicious and...
We had a wonderful stay at Churchill Hotel in Bulawayo and were genuinely very happy with our experience. ❤️
The location was excellent for our holiday, making it easy for us to explore Bulawayo and the surrounding area. We were conveniently located for our visits to Matobo National Park, the city centre, garden centres and other places we wanted to see.
The food was one of the biggest highlights of our stay. Both breakfast and dinner were absolutely amazing! The meals were delicious and...
Stunning Natural Landscapes: Matopos boasts breathtaking views and unique rock formations, particularly in the renowned Matobo National Park.
Adventure Activities: Enjoy a range of outdoor pursuits, including leisurely hikes, thrilling horseback safaris, and wildlife sightings.
Rich Cultural Heritage: Explore the area's cultural significance, with historical sites and local traditions that enrich your visit.
Recreational Opportunities: Lake Matopos Recreational Park offers leisure activities and a fairground for family entertainment.
Charming Accommodation: Experience delightful lodgings, from cosy lodges to pet-friendly guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in and around Matopos
Explore a range of delightful lodging options in Matopos, Matabeleland South, where you can enjoy a comfortable stay in charming lodges and guesthouses. Whether you're seeking a nature-themed escape, a pet-friendly retreat, or facilities suited for business travellers, Matopos has it all. With convenient amenities like free parking and a variety of farmhouse lodges, your ideal Matopos accommodation awaits, offering an unforgettable experience in this stunning region of Zimbabwe.
Matobo Hills Lodge: Nestled in the breathtaking Matobo Hills, this 3.5-star lodge exudes a rustic charm and is rated an impressive 9.6. Ideal for both business and leisure travellers, the lodge offers a tranquil retreat with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms featuring stunning views of the surrounding landscape, alongside facilities such as a restaurant serving local cuisine, a bar, and outdoor activities including guided tours of the nearby hills, rich in history and wildlife.
Glen Lodge & Tours: Situated 33.8km away from Matopos, this 3-star guesthouse is perfect for those seeking a homey atmosphere combined with convenience. With its warm hospitality, Glen Lodge & Tours provides comfortable accommodations equipped with essential amenities. Guests can indulge in guided tours, exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area. The lodge also features communal areas for relaxation, making it an excellent base for both business and leisure trips.
Sethule Lodge: Just 35.4km from Matopos, Sethule Lodge stands out with a perfect guest rating of 10.0. This 3-star lodge offers a unique fusion of comfort and local culture, making it a fantastic choice for travellers. Sethule Lodge boasts elegantly furnished rooms, an inviting dining area, and a friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy various activities, including exploring nearby attractions, while the lodge’s attentive service ensures a delightful stay tailored to both business and leisure visitors.
Where to stay near Matopos
Matopos offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventure and rich history, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Explore the stunning landscapes of Matobo National Park, renowned for its breathtaking views and unique rock formations. Enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of friendly camps, perfectly situated for your adventures. With the charm of Matabeleland South surrounding you, your visit promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with exploration and discovery.
Bulawayo: Located 46.7km from Matopos, Bulawayo is Zimbabwe's second-largest city, rich in history and culture. Visitors flock here for outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and a taste of local life. The vibrant recreational areas and fairgrounds offer numerous activities, while the nearby national parks provide a stunning backdrop for exploration. Highlights include local parks and event venues that host various cultural events throughout the year. The peak visitor times in July and November to December promise a lively atmosphere, making it an ideal stop for tourists seeking both adventure and community engagement.
Figtree: A mere 19.3km from Matopos, Figtree is a charming city known for its serene landscapes and outdoor adventures. The city attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in July to August and December, making it a popular destination for those eager to experience the beautiful scenery. Figtree boasts excellent recreational areas where tourists can unwind, while the proximity to national parks ensures ample opportunities for exploration and wildlife spotting. This quaint city provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit location for nature lovers.
Marula: Situated 37.0km away from Matopos, Marula offers a delightful mix of outdoor experiences and stunning scenery. Although its visitor numbers are moderately seasonal, with peaks in April and July to September, the city consistently attracts those looking for adventure. Marula's recreational areas and access to national parks make it an excellent base for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities while soaking in the beautiful landscapes, ensuring a memorable experience for all who venture here.
Things to do in Matopos
Matopos offers an exhilarating outdoor escape with its scenic beauty and adventure activities. Visitors can enjoy leisurely hikes, drive tours, and wildlife sightings, alongside thrilling horseback safaris. The area features a recreational zone and a fairground for added entertainment, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore its main attractions for a truly memorable experience.
Shopping
The nearest shopping experience in Matopos includes local markets where you can find handmade crafts and traditional artefacts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Bulawayo Village, about 48.3km away, featuring various shops and stalls selling unique souvenirs and local delicacies.
Recreation
The Matobo Hills offer a tranquil environment for wellness retreats, with breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for meditation. Enjoy guided nature walks, yoga sessions, and traditional healing practices. Explore the ancient rock art at the nearby caves, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Adventure
The Matobo National Park offers exhilarating hiking trails with breathtaking views of ancient rock formations. Explore the rich wildlife and unique flora, while visiting the fascinating San rock art sites. For thrill-seekers, rock climbing and abseiling provide an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst stunning landscapes.
Nightlife
In Matopos, enjoy a vibrant nightlife at venues like the Matopos Lodge, where you can unwind with a drink while soaking in the stunning views. For a more laid-back vibe, visit local pubs offering traditional Zimbabwean dishes and lively music, perfect for mingling with locals and fellow tourists alike.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Matopos
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Matopos are February, May and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and August to September, 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 Matopos is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Matopos is Saturday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, 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 can make significant savings by combining your Matopos hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Matopos
Matopos, located in Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Key attractions include Matopos National Park, Lake Matopos Recreational Park, Matopos Hills, and the UNESCO-listed Matobo National Park. Visitors can explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for those yearning for an unforgettable experience in nature.
Matobo National Park Main Entrance: Enter this stunning national park where adventure awaits amidst breathtaking scenery. Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing in a dramatic landscape filled with unique rock formations and diverse flora and fauna.
Matobo National Park Arboretum Entrance: A family-friendly destination, this arboretum offers a tranquil escape into nature. Explore various plant species while enjoying picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for families to bond in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Matobo Hills: Located a short 4.8km from Matopos, these hills provide awe-inspiring views and a chance to immerse yourself in outdoor activities. Discover the stunning scenery and rich biodiversity while hiking or simply taking in the natural beauty.
Best time to go to Matopos
The best time to visit Matopos is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. November is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
70.9°F (21.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
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
Slightly Low
Slightly High
April
66.4°F (19.1°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
May
63.0°F (17.2°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
June
58.6°F (14.8°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Average
July
57.6°F (14.2°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly High
Average
August
63.9°F (17.7°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
September
70.9°F (21.6°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Slightly High
October
74.3°F (23.5°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
November
74.5°F (23.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
December
73.0°F (22.8°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
The nearest major airports for your trip to Matopos
To visit Matopos in Zimbabwe, you can fly into Bulawayo's Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ), situated 57.9km away. Convenient hotel options nearby include the 4-star Holiday Inn Bulawayo, located 16.1km from the airport, which offers 24-hour airport shuttle services for a fee. The Selborne Hotel, rated 3.5 stars, is also 16.1km away and provides easy access to the airport. Additionally, Parrot Lodge, another 3.5-star option, is found 17.7km from BUQ and offers airport transportation for a fee. These hotels ensure you have a comfortable stay while making your journey to Matopos seamless.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Matopos?
The best area to stay in Matopos is within the Matobo National Park itself, offering the most convenient access to the park's main attractions.
Staying inside the park means you're just a short drive from iconic sites such as World's View, the burial place of Cecil Rhodes, and the various rock painting sites. The park's landscape is characterised by dramatic granite kopjes and lush valleys, providing a real sense of being in the heart of nature. Accommodations here often include lodges and camps that blend into the natural surroundings.
For couples seeking a quiet and romantic escape, staying in one of the private lodges located among the kopjes is an excellent choice. These lodges typically offer secluded chalets, often with private verandas overlooking the unique landscape, allowing for intimate wildlife viewing opportunities and peaceful evenings under the stars. They often provide guided walks and drives, allowing you to explore the park's natural beauty and wildlife without needing to organise your own transport.
Families will also find staying within the park highly convenient. Many lodges cater to families with larger rooms or interconnected rooms. Being inside the park means less travel time to activities like rhino tracking or visiting the San rock art sites, which is particularly helpful with younger children.
What are the best hotels in Matopos that travellers recommend?
For a highly recommended hotel in Matopos, the Matobo Hills Lodge stands out as an excellent choice.
This 3.5-star lodge, boasting an impressive 9.6 rating, is frequently praised by guests for its excellent food. It offers a variety of convenient amenities including room service, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour airport shuttle, which is great for travellers with varying flight schedules. Families will appreciate the availability of free cribs and rollaway extra beds. The lodge also provides lovely mountain views and is situated just 7.9 kilometres from the Matobo Hills.
The 3.5-star Matobo Hills Lodge, with an excellent 9.6 rating, is a great choice for families. It offers complimentary cribs and rollaway extra beds, making it convenient for those travelling with children. Guests also appreciate the 24-hour airport shuttle and free self-parking. The hotel is located just 7.9 km from the Matobo Hills.
Another excellent option is the 3.5-star Big Cave Camp - Lodge On The Rocks, which has a 9.0 rating. This lodge provides complimentary cribs, rollaway extra beds, and highchairs for children. Families can enjoy the outdoor pool with poolside bar and sun loungers, and the rooms feature premium bedding and Egyptian cotton sheets. The hotel is 9.8 km from the Matobo Hills.
This 3.5-star lodge, with an impressive 9.0 rating, offers a truly all-inclusive stay. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool with sun loungers and a poolside bar. The rooms feature designer toiletries, premium bedding, and Egyptian cotton sheets for a comfortable stay, and many offer wonderful mountain views. The lodge is also conveniently located just 9.8 km from Matobo Hills, making it easy to explore the natural beauty of the area.
What are the most romantic hotels in Matopos for couples?
The 3.5-star Big Cave Camp - Lodge On The Rocks, with a 9.0 rating, offers a delightful experience. Guests can enjoy the poolside bar and relax on the sun loungers by the outdoor pool. The rooms feature mountain views, designer toiletries, premium bedding, and Egyptian cotton sheets, with many offering a terrace or balcony. It is located 9.8 km from Matobo Hills, providing a serene setting.
Another highly-rated option is the 3.5-star Matobo Hills Lodge, boasting an impressive 9.6 rating. This lodge provides a 24-hour airport shuttle and complimentary self-parking, adding convenience to your stay. Guests will appreciate the free toiletries and the stunning mountain views. Our customers frequently praise the great food available here. It is situated 7.9 km from Matobo Hills.
What are the best hotels in Matopos near Matobo Hills?
The 3.5-star Matobo Hills Lodge, with an excellent 9.6 rating, is located approximately 7.9 km from Matobo Hills. Guests frequently praise the great food, and the hotel offers amenities such as a 24-hour airport shuttle, free self-parking, and complimentary toiletries. Free cribs and rollaway extra beds are also available, making it suitable for families.
Another excellent choice is the 3.5-star Big Cave Camp - Lodge On The Rocks, rated 9.0, which is approximately 9.8 km from Matobo Hills. This lodge provides free cribs and rollaway extra beds, as well as highchairs for children. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool with sun loungers and a poolside bar. Rooms feature mountain views, premium bedding, and Egyptian cotton sheets, along with designer toiletries.
When is the best time to go to Matopos?
The best time to go to Matopos is during the dry season, which runs from May to October.
This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies and cooler temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities like game drives and exploring the Matobo Hills. The lack of rain means the vegetation is less dense, improving visibility for wildlife spotting. It's also easier to navigate the park's roads during this time.
For those keen on wildlife viewing, the dry season is particularly good as animals congregate around the shrinking water sources, making them easier to find. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the greater visibility of resident species.
Travellers who prefer to avoid the heat and humidity should definitely aim for these months.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Matopos.
How much is the nightly rate at a Matopos hotel?
Prices for hotels in Matopos often vary, but you can find a great deal from £30 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.