About Our City of Bulawayo

City of Bulawayo Coat of Arms

Twinned with the city of Aberdeen, Scotland, and the city of Durban, South Africa, the historical city of Bulawayo, or the City of Kings, is the hub of the province of Matabeleland, which comprises the whole of western Zimbabwe, from Beitbridge on the South African border to Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River in the north, and the largest water front of Lake Kariba.

It is a province rich in cultural heritage, art, traditional music and dance.

The Bulawayo area has been a centre of habitation since the Stone Age, making it a unique African city that predates colonial establishment.

Located at a vantage point in southern Africa, Bulawayo forms the axis of a well-planned road and rail network to the north, south, east, and west. Bulawayo is the natural gateway to Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and the Great Zimbabwe Ruins.

History of The City of Bulawayo

Bulawayo was the capital of Mzilikazi and of his son Lobengula, both legendary Ndebele Kings.

Early settlers, using the region’s immense natural wealth, turned Bulawayo into a boom town after 1893.

The arrival of the railways in 1897 made it the country’s major centre for mining, ranching and industrial activity.

The City of Bulawayo is one of the country’s most attractive cities, with a pleasing mixture of Victorian and modern architecture, which gives it a unique character.

This skyline, which together with its wide tree-lined streets and avenues, Art Deco buildings and friendly people make it a city of great charm.

To counter the baking summer sun, the city has several municipal swimming pools. The Bulawayo Municipality swimming pool was built in 1936. It was the first to be built and is found in the city centre. Other pools were built in the surrounding suburbs over the years to service their population and communities.

Places To Stay In the Bulawayo

Bulawayo offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences:

  • Camping: For those seeking a more immersive and budget-friendly experience, camping is a popular option. Several campsites are located within and around the city, providing opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.
  • Hotels: Bulawayo features a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to upscale establishments. These hotels offer a variety of amenities, including comfortable rooms, on-site restaurants, and swimming pools. The Holiday Inn Bulawayo is a well-known 4 Star hotel that is an icon in the city.
  • Bed and Breakfast: For a more personalized and intimate experience, bed and breakfast accommodations provide a home-like atmosphere. Bed and breakfasts often offer delicious breakfasts and local insights, making them a great choice for travelers seeking a more authentic experience.
  • Lodge Accommodation: Available in Bulawayo and the surrounding areas, lodges often offer a more rustic and secluded setting, with comfortable rooms and amenities such as swimming pools and game viewing activities. These accommodations can be a great choice for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway.

Visitors to the city describe Bulawayo as a “Jewel beneath the Zimbabwean Sun” well worth visiting due to its vast array of treasures and extensive activities located in a truly unique setting.

There are some very interesting facts about Bulawayo that make for interesting reading.