Bulawayo

Bulawayo is a renowned tourist destination in Zimbabwe's Matabeleland Region. It has been Zimbabwe's main industrial base since its inception. Because of its huge industrial base, Bulawayo is nicknamed as the "City of Kings." Originally a municipality, this Zimbabwean city was elevated to the rank of a city in 1943.

Bulawayo is situated at a high height, with undulating hills to the south. The slopes gradually grow gentler as one approaches towards the north and north-western parts. Matobo National Park, Natural History Museum, Khami Ruins, Nesbitt Castle, and Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage are among Bulawayo's main attractions.

Bulawayo has a New Orleans feeling about it. It has an ancient colonial front with art deco and Victorian regal styling. It has interesting trees lining its ancient roadways, as well as the odd Anglo-esque public house that sits atop the archway. This second city, however, is more than just a collection of old ruins.

It's also an industrial and commercial hub, long known for its smoke-emitting factories and still crisscrossed by more train lines than a Ndebele tribal amulet can vibrate at. The town is lush and floral, with bougainvillea draping the rooftops and palms throwing their shadows on the roundabouts. Among these, you may tour beautiful government buildings, go souvenir shopping, or plan your next safari to the south-western parks.

• Location: Matabeleland, Zimbabwe
• Timing: All day long
• Famous for: gorgeous government buildings, plan your next safari to the western parks.
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best Time To Visit: between January and December, when the weather is nice or mild.