Bulawayo: A Journey Into My Hometown — the City of Kings and Queens

Let me tell you a story about my hometown, Bulawayo. As the second-largest city in Zimbabwe, it is affectionately known as the “City of Kings and Queens.” While it was historically dubbed the “City of Kings” in honour of its royal founders, the title evolved to include “Queens” to celebrate the strength and heritage of the women who define the city today.

The Strategic Pulse of Southern Africa

Bulawayo isn’t just a destination; it’s a vital gateway. According to the Bulawayo City Council, the city serves as the ultimate hub for Southern Africa. If you are travelling by road from South Africa or Botswana to Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare, your journey inevitably flows through the wide, tree-lined streets of Bulawayo.

Standing on some of the most ancient rock formations on Earth, the city sits on the apex of the great Zimbabwean plateau. This unique geography allowed it to become the axis of the region’s rail and road networks. In fact, when the first train arrived in 1897, it cemented Bulawayo’s role as the industrial and mining heart of what was then Southern Rhodesia.

A Royal Heritage & UNESCO Wonders

The city was the final home of King Lobengula, the last Ndebele monarch. Today, it remains the cultural centre for the three Matabeleland provinces. For history buffs and explorers, Bulawayo is the perfect base to discover world-renowned landmarks:

• Khami Ruins: A UNESCO World Heritage site located just outside the city.
• Matobo Hills: A spiritual landscape and the burial site of both King Mzilikazi and Cecil John Rhodes.
• Old Bulawayo: A living monument to the city’s royal beginnings.

Architecture, Art, and MICE Tourism

Walking through the city feels like stepping through time. You’ll find a stunning mixture of Victorian-era charm and modern architecture. The National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, housed in a beautiful historic building, is a must-visit for art lovers.

The city also drives the nation’s MICE Tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) as the proud host of the annual Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF). While you’re there, don’t miss the iconic statue of Father Zimbabwe, the late Vice President Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, which stands as a symbol of national pride.

A Living Legacy

Today, the City of Kings and Queens lives up to its name through its vibrant diverse cultures and resilient traditions. It remains the gateway to Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park, offering a rich experience where history is something you can see, touch, and feel.

Quick Guide: 48 Hours in Bulawayo

Maximize your stay in the City of Kings and Queens with this two-day itinerary that balances royal history, world-class art, and breathtaking natural wonders.

Day 1: Royal Roots and Urban Charm

• Morning (09:00): Start at the Bulawayo City Hall to admire its iconic clock tower and the bustling flower markets outside. Walk down the wide, Victorian-era streets to the statue of Joshua Nkomo at the intersection of Main Street and 8th Avenue.
• Lunch (12:30): Head to a local eatery for a traditional Ndebele meal—try Isitshwala with Mopane worms (for the brave!) or beef stew.
• Afternoon (14:30): Explore the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo. Housed in the historic Douslin House, it features contemporary Zimbabwean art and a charming courtyard café.
• Evening (17:30): Take a short drive to the Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Watching the sunset over these ancient stone walls is a magical way to end your first day.

Day 2: The Spirit of Matobo

• Full Day Trip: Head 35km south of the city to the Matobo National Park.
  • The World’s View: Hike up to “Malindidzimu,” the burial site of Cecil Rhodes, offering a 360-degree view of the granite “whaleback” hills.
  • Royal Grave: Pay respects at the grave of King Mzilikazi, founder of the Ndebele nation.
  • Rhino Tracking: This park is a premier sanctuary for both Black and White Rhinos. Join a guided walk for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.
• Evening: Return to Bulawayo for dinner at one of the city’s modern grills or garden restaurants to toast your journey.