How to get to Bulawayo

Bulawayo is the second most important city in Zimbabwe, renowned for its colonial architecture and status as the region's cultural capital. When planning how to get to Bulawayo, travellers can choose a direct flight to the local airport or utilise ground transport from neighbouring cities. You can reach this significant historical centre in the southwest of the country by train, bus, or rental car, enjoying scenic views along the way.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the city is by taking a flight to Bulawayo International Airport (BUQ). This modern aviation hub, named after Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo, handles both domestic flights and flights from neighbouring countries, ensuring stable connections with the region. The terminal is well-connected to the city's infrastructure, making arrival as convenient as possible for tourists.

Alternatively, one can consider flying via larger transport hubs located a few hundred kilometres away. Travellers often choose flights to the country's capital, Harare, or the popular tourist centre of Victoria Falls, from where they can continue their journey via local airlines. It is also worth noting Francistown in neighbouring Botswana, which is just 159 km away and can serve as a convenient entry point.

Bulawayo is historically the country's main railway hub and the headquarters of the national railways. Unlike many other cities in the region, there is a functioning station here that accepts passenger trains, making train travel a convenient and atmospheric option for tourists.

The main railway routes connect the city with Victoria Falls and the capital, Harare. Regular night trains are particularly popular: they allow passengers to save daylight time and money on hotel accommodation. Passengers are usually offered carriages of various classes, including sleeper compartments. It is recommended to purchase tickets at the station counters in advance and check the current schedule before the trip.

Bus services connect the city with key points in the region, offering travellers an affordable and colourful way to travel. Regular trips from the capital, Harare, cover the 440-kilometre journey in approximately 5–6 hours. The route from Victoria Falls is equally in demand: the road from the famous waterfalls takes the same amount of time and allows you to enjoy the landscapes of the Zimbabwean countryside.

For those planning to enter from Botswana, Francistown, located in the southwest, serves as a convenient departure point. Buses cover the distance of 200 kilometres in an average of 3–4 hours, although total travel time often depends on the speed of border control procedures. Most intercity liners arrive at central stations, ensuring tourists have easy access to taxis and city infrastructure immediately after disembarking.

Travelling by car allows you to enjoy African landscapes and plan stops along the way independently. The popular route from the capital, Harare, stretches for 440 kilometres and usually takes about 5.5 hours along the main highway. If you are driving from the tourist centre of Victoria Falls, prepare for a journey of 435 kilometres, which will require approximately 7 hours of driving.

For those making their way from neighbouring Botswana, Francistown is a convenient starting point. The distance here is comparatively short — just 193 kilometres, which can be covered in 2.5 hours barring delays at border control. Renting a car or hiring an intercity taxi is not difficult, but it is better to agree on the cost of the trip with private drivers in advance, as fixed rates are not always found.

Preparing for your trip to Bulawayo will help make your holiday as comfortable and fulfilling as possible. This city in Zimbabwe is distinguished by a calm atmosphere and wide avenues, but, as in any region of Africa, there are important nuances to be aware of in advance.

1. Clothing and Climate: Bulawayo has a pleasant subtropical climate, but the weather depends on the season. In summer (November to March), it is hot and rain is possible, so choose light natural fabrics and bring a raincoat. In winter (May to August), days are sunny and warm, but nights can be quite cold — be sure to pack a warm jumper or light jacket in your suitcase.
2. Transport Choices: Official taxis are the most reliable mode of transport for tourists. Local minibuses, known as "combis", are very cheap but often overcrowded and driven quite aggressively. If you decide to use a taxi, agree on the price of the trip in advance, as meters are rarely used.
3. Financial Advice: The currency situation can change, but cash US Dollars remain the most reliable means of payment. It is extremely important to carry plenty of small denominations (1, 5, 10 dollars), as change is a rarity. Bank cards are accepted in large hotels and supermarkets, but one should not rely solely on them due to possible connection failures.
4. Health and Water: The risk of malaria within the city limits is minimal, but if you plan trips to national parks, it is worth consulting a doctor about prophylaxis. Use only bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth to avoid stomach upsets.
5. Language and Communication: English is an official language and is widely spoken, so communication problems will not arise. However, the main language of the region is Ndebele. Learning a simple greeting like "Salibonani" will immediately endear you to the locals.
6. Local Etiquette: Zimbabweans are a very polite and hospitable people. It is customary to greet others, ask "how are you", and show respect to elders. Always ask for permission before photographing anyone on the street.
7. Important Restrictions: Strictly avoid photographing government buildings, police posts, military facilities, and motorcades. This can lead to serious problems with the authorities and confiscation of equipment.
8. Historical Feature: While walking through the centre, pay attention to the extraordinary width of the streets. They were designed over a hundred years ago specifically so that a wagon drawn by a team of oxen could turn around freely. Use this spaciousness for comfortable walking tours.

Observing these simple rules will allow you to feel confident and safe. Bulawayo is a city with a rich history and friendly people, and by preparing for your trip, you will be able to fully enjoy its unique colonial charm.