Bulawayo
ISO3: ZWE
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I have not visited ❌
Time Zone: Africa/Harare
"Kontuthu ziyathunqa | The smoke that thunders"
20.1567° S, 28.5833° E
About:
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second-largest city, was founded by the Ndebele king, Lobengula, in the 1840s. It became a British South Africa Company's possession in 1893 after the Matabele War. Bulawayo developed as an industrial center in the 20th century, with significant growth in textiles, motor vehicle assembly, and food processing. Despite economic challenges since Zimbabwe's independence in 1980, Bulawayo remains a key commercial and industrial hub, also known for its rich cultural heritage.
When to visit:
Bulawayo, located in the southern region of Zimbabwe, experiences a subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Bulawayo for a holiday is during the dry season, which typically occurs from May to October. During this time, visitors can expect clear skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures for exploring the city's attractions such as the Matobo National Park and the Khami Ruins. It is advisable to avoid the rainy season from November to April, as heavy downpours can hinder outdoor activities and wildlife viewing opportunities.
When to avoid:
Bulawayo, located in southwestern Zimbabwe, experiences a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The worst time to travel to Bulawayo on a holiday would be during the rainy season, which typically occurs from November to March. Heavy rainfall during this period can lead to flooding, road closures, and difficulty in outdoor activities. Travelers may also encounter increased humidity and the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. It is advisable to plan your visit to Bulawayo during the drier months of April to October for a more enjoyable holiday experience.
"Wet Season (Nov-Mar)"
In Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, the warmest part of the year is from August to October. During this period, the average high temperatures range from 27°C (80°F) to 31°C (88°F). Rainfall is minimal during these months, with August being the driest month. Sunlight is abundant with about 10 hours of daylight per day, providing ample opportunity to explore the city and its surroundings.
The humidity is relatively low, making the heat bearable and not too oppressive. Cloudiness is also minimal, resulting in clear blue skies most of the time.
A typical day for a visitor during this period feels warm and dry, with a good amount of sunshine. Mornings and evenings can be cooler, so light layers are advisable. The afternoons are hot, but not stifling, making it a great time to enjoy indoor activities or relax in the shade. The low humidity also means that even when it's hot, it doesn't feel overly sticky or uncomfortable. Overall, it's a great time to visit if you enjoy warm, sunny weather.
"Hot Season (September–April)"
In Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, the warmest part of the year is from August to October. During this period, the average high temperatures range from 27°C (80°F) to 31°C (88°F). Rainfall is minimal during these months, with August being the driest month. Sunlight is abundant with about 10 hours of daylight per day, providing ample opportunity to explore the city and its surroundings.
The humidity is relatively low, making the heat bearable and not too oppressive. Cloudiness is also minimal, resulting in clear blue skies most of the time.
A typical day for a visitor during this period feels warm and dry, with a good amount of sunshine. Mornings and evenings can be cooler, so light layers are advisable. The afternoons are hot, but not stifling, making it a great time to enjoy indoor activities or relax in the shade. The low humidity also means that even when it's hot, it doesn't feel overly sticky or uncomfortable. Overall, it's a great time to visit if you enjoy warm, sunny weather.
Language:
ndebele
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second-largest city, predominantly speaks Ndebele, a Bantu language. It is the mother tongue of the Ndebele people who make up about 20% of the country's population. English is also widely spoken, being the official language of Zimbabwe and used in business and schools. Shona, another Bantu language, is also understood by many, as it is the most spoken language in the country. Other minority languages may also be spoken due to migration.