Hotels & Accommodation in Bulawayo

Discover the Soul of Bulawayo: A Tapestry of Nature, History, and Heritage

Nestled in the heart of Zimbabwe, Bulawayo is a vibrant city that effortlessly blends rich history with captivating culture. Known as the City of Kings, it boasts a plethora of attractions, including the fascinating Natural History Museum and the revered Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the lush greenery of Centenary Park and the serene Botanic Gardens. The city’s colonial architecture and lively arts scene invite exploration, while warm hospitality makes every visitor feel at home. Whether you’re delving into its storied past or enjoying its vibrant present, Bulawayo is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

Discover great hotels near Bulawayo

Bulawayo offers a range of hotel accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets. From modern hotels with essential amenities to quaint guesthouses that showcase local charm, visitors can find comfortable options for their stay. Whether you seek convenience in the city centre or a more tranquil setting, Bulawayo has plenty to choose from. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers near Bulawayo:

1. Matobo Hills LodgeOpens in a new window: This charming 3.5-star lodge offers a delightful retreat for leisure travellers seeking a unique experience in Bulawayo. Guests will appreciate the lovely setting and the opportunity for excellent rhino tracking, enriching their stay with memorable outdoor adventures. The property boasts a friendly atmosphere, ensuring a welcoming environment. The positive sentiments highlight the superb dining options, although the weather may influence outdoor dining enjoyment.
2. Holiday Inn Bulawayo by IHGOpens in a new window: A 4.0-star hotel, this property presents a perfect choice for those in search of comfort and relaxation. Spacious and clean rooms create a soothing environment for unwinding after a day of exploration. Guests can indulge in a satisfying breakfast selection and experience attentive service from the staff, making their stay enjoyable. The hotel’s focus on providing a tranquil atmosphere ensures a delightful experience for discerning travellers.
3. Musketeers LodgeOpens in a new window: This inviting 3.5-star lodge combines comfort with entertainment for travellers looking to unwind. Featuring diverse dining options, including a daily breakfast and a restaurant, guests can enjoy a satisfying culinary experience. The property offers various entertainment amenities, with modern television options enhancing leisure time. Positive sentiments reflect the overall enjoyable atmosphere, making it a great choice for those seeking a relaxing getaway.

Where to stay in and around Bulawayo

Southdale, Highmount and Matopos in Bulawayo offer diverse appeals. Southdale boasts vibrant urban life, Highmount features a mix of modern amenities, and Matopos draws visitors with natural parks and historical sites such as Matobo National Park and its rock art caves. For first-time visitors, Matopos provides an enriching blend of nature and history.

1. SouthdaleOpens in a new window: Southdale is a trendy spot offering a mix of modern comforts and a lively ambience, making it a top choice for visitors to Bulawayo. It’s great for those who enjoy a range of shopping options and a vibrant social scene. The area brings together a variety of attractions that promise convenience and ease of access to both local amenities and popular local hangouts.
2. HighmountOpens in a new window: Highmount stands out as a desirable place to stay with its unique local flair. It offers a mix of comfortable accommodations and easy access to the city's social scene, making it a solid option for travellers seeking a balanced urban experience. Its focus on local shopping and cultural attractions means visitors can enjoy a relaxed yet engaging visit.
3. MatoposOpens in a new window: Matopos is an ideal choice for nature and history enthusiasts. With naturalparks and historical affinities, it offers must-see places like Matobo National Park, the Main Entrance, and the intriguing Rock Art Caves. Its focus on the outdoors and rich historical context makes it perfect for those looking to explore Zimbabwe’s natural beauty and heritage.

Things to do in and around Bulawayo

Bulawayo offers travellers a mix of scenic nature and lively arts. Enjoy exploring rolling hills, lush woodlands and sparkling lakes while sampling local opera, guided tours and wildlife encounters. It’s a vibrant escape where outdoor fun and creative experiences naturally blend into one memorable journey.

• Matobo National ParkOpens in a new window – Discover the rugged beauty of Matobo National Park, a nationalStatePark that offers a blend of natural parks, museums, ruins, and gardens. Wander through its diverse landscapes and enjoy the serene environment as you explore various trails and viewpoints.
• Matobo National Park Main EntranceOpens in a new window – Begin your adventure at the Matobo National ParkOpens in a new window Main Entrance, where the park’s charm is immediately evident. This nationalStatePark welcomes you with its impressive natural features and historical landmarks, providing an accessible starting point for your exploration.
• Matobo National Park Arboretum EntranceOpens in a new window – Step into the Matobo National Park Arboretum Entrance to experience a specialised area dedicated to plant life. This arboretum offers a unique perspective on the park’s botanical diversity, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural flora in a curated setting.
• The Nesbitt CastleOpens in a new window – Visit The Nesbitt Castle to explore the intriguing architecture and storied past encapsulated within its walls. This castle, set amidst the natural backdrop of the area, invites you to delve into its historical context and enjoy the surrounding ambience.
• Hillside Dams ConservationOpens in a new window – Finally, make your way to Hillside Dams Conservation, a reservePreserve that highlights the region’s commitment to conservation. Here, you can stroll along scenic paths and observe the local ecosystem in a peaceful environment.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Bulawayo

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Bulawayo is in February, October, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For an enriching experience that allows you to fully appreciate the city’s historical and cultural landmarks, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During this time, you can explore various attractions such as museums, art galleries, historical sites, and natural parks, making it a great value for money for those on a budget. With the possibility that prices may drop during these months, it’s an ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and wildlife of Bulawayo.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Bulawayo, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel options as your travel date approaches. Additionally, activating email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com could help you stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don’t miss potential savings. The Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, giving you the chance to be the first to know if rooms become available or prices drop, making your last-minute getaway even more accessible.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you find a better deal on your stay in Bulawayo. For those seeking unique accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and could offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we might suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable to assist you in finding a good value.
4. Consider your location: Opting to stay nearer to key attractions or city centres can offer convenience, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more budget-friendly options, you might consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to visit. You could also look into independent hotels located a bit further out, 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 typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Bulawayo, July, November, and December are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, with little to no rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, February, May, and June are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.