Best Places To Visit In Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Opened in 1964, this museum features an impressive collection of exhibits depicting the country’s history, mineral wealth, and diverse wildlife, including the world’s second-largest mounted elephant. With nine public display galleries, a lecture hall, a cafeteria, and eight research departments, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of Zimbabwe’s geological, biological, and archaeological wonders.

Location: The Natural History Museum Bulawayo is situated on Leopold Takawira Avenue in the heart of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city. It is conveniently located just a short distance from the city center.

How to Get There: Visitors can easily reach the museum by car or public transport from within Bulawayo. The museum is well-connected to the city’s main roads and is easily accessible by taxi or bus.

What Can See: Prepare to be amazed by the museum’s extensive collections, which include over 15,000 rock, gem, and crystal samples, as well as a vast array of insect, spider, fish, reptile, amphibian, bird, and mammal specimens. The Geology and Paleontology departments are particularly impressive, showcasing rare minerals and a diverse range of fossils, including plant fossils, dinosaurs, and early mammals.

What Can Do: Visitors can explore the museum’s nine galleries at their own pace, taking in the fascinating exhibits and learning about Zimbabwe’s natural history. The museum also offers guided tours for those who want a more in-depth experience. The lecture hall is used for various educational programs and events, making it a great place to learn and engage with the museum’s themes.

Conclusion: The Natural History Museum Bulawayo is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Zimbabwe’s natural heritage. With its impressive collections, engaging exhibits, and educational programs, the museum offers a unique opportunity to discover the wonders of the country’s diverse ecosystems and geological history.

Housed in a stunning building, the gallery features a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations by local and international artists. The gallery also hosts regular exhibitions and events, making it a dynamic and engaging space for art lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Location: The National Art Gallery Bulawayo is situated in the heart of Bulawayo, just a short walk from the city center. The gallery is easily accessible by car or public transport, with ample parking available nearby.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach the gallery by car, taxi, or bus from within Bulawayo. The city’s public transport system is well-developed, making it easy to navigate to the gallery from various parts of the city.

What Can See: Prepare to be captivated by the gallery’s stunning collection of artworks, which showcase the diverse styles and themes of Zimbabwean art. From vibrant paintings depicting the country’s rich cultural heritage to thought-provoking sculptures exploring contemporary issues, the gallery offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistic soul of Zimbabwe.

What Can Do: Visitors can explore the gallery’s exhibitions at their own pace, taking time to appreciate the artworks and learn about the artists and their inspirations. The gallery also offers guided tours for those who want a more in-depth experience, as well as educational programs and workshops for budding artists and art enthusiasts.

Conclusion: The National Art Gallery Bulawayo is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Zimbabwe’s thriving art scene. With its impressive collection, engaging exhibitions, and educational programs, the gallery offers a unique opportunity to discover the creativity and talent of Zimbabwean artists and to immerse oneself in the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Founded in 1972, the museum is housed within the Bulawayo railway station and features a collection of exhibits showcasing the history of Zimbabwe’s railway system. The museum’s oldest exhibits date back to 1897 and include Cecil Rhodes’ personal railway coach, offering a glimpse into the country’s colonial past.

Location: The Bulawayo Railway Museum is located within the Bulawayo railway station, just a short walk from the city center. The museum is easily accessible by car or public transport, with ample parking available nearby.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach the museum by car, taxi, or bus from within Bulawayo. The city’s public transport system is well-developed, making it easy to navigate to the museum from various parts of the city.

What Can See: Prepare to be transported back in time as you explore the museum’s collection of vintage locomotives, coaches, and railway memorabilia. Marvel at the intricate workings of the steam engines and imagine the journeys they once undertook across Zimbabwe’s vast landscapes. The museum also features exhibits on the development of rail transport in the region and its impact on the country’s economy and society.

What Can Do: Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits at their own pace, taking time to appreciate the historical significance of the artifacts and learn about the evolution of Zimbabwe’s railway system. The museum also offers guided tours for those who want a more in-depth experience, as well as educational programs and workshops for students and railway enthusiasts.

Conclusion: The Bulawayo Railway Museum is a fascinating destination that offers a unique glimpse into Zimbabwe’s colonial past and the development of its railway system. With its impressive collection of artifacts and engaging exhibits, the museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the country’s history and the role of transportation in shaping its society and economy.

Dating back to the 15th century, the ruins were once the capital of the Torwa State, a predecessor of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe. Covering an area of approximately 100 hectares, the site features spectacular terraced stone ruins, intricate sculptures, and the remains of palaces, ritual sites, and living quarters, all arranged around a natural hill. The Khami Ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a valuable source of information on the social and economic structure of pre-colonial Zimbabwean society, as well as on the region’s artistic and architectural traditions.

Location: The Khami Ruins are located approximately 22 kilometers northwest of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. The site is easily accessible by car or public transport, with ample parking available on-site.

How to Get There: Visitors can reach the Khami Ruins by car, taxi, or bus from Bulawayo. The journey takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, visitors can join a guided tour that departs from Bulawayo and includes transportation to the site.

What Can See: Prepare to be amazed by the sheer scale and complexity of the Khami Ruins. Wander through the terraced stone structures, marveling at the intricate patterns and designs carved into the walls. Explore the remains of the palaces and ritual sites, imagining the daily life and ceremonies that once took place here. The site also features a museum with exhibits showcasing the artifacts and findings from archaeological excavations.

What Can Do: Visitors can explore the Khami Ruins on a self-guided tour, following the well-marked trails and interpretive signs. Guided tours are also available, offering a more in-depth look at the site’s history and significance. The museum on-site provides additional context and information about the ruins and the people who once lived here.

Conclusion: The Khami Ruins are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage and ancient history. With their stunning architecture, intricate sculptures, and archaeological significance, the ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and a chance to appreciate the ingenuity and skill of the people who once called this place home.