Midlands, Zimbabwe Travel Guide

Explore the Midlands of Zimbabwe: A blend of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling adventures in the heart of the country.

Nestled in the center of Zimbabwe, the Midlands region is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, this area offers a unique glimpse into the life and traditions of the Zimbabwean people. The city of Gweru, the regional capital, is a bustling hub with a mix of colonial and modern architecture, providing a fascinating backdrop for visitors. The Midlands is also home to some of the country's most beautiful natural landscapes. From the rolling hills and verdant valleys to the serene lakes and rivers, the scenery is simply breathtaking. The region is particularly famous for its national parks, like the Antelope Park, where you can get up close and personal with Africa's majestic wildlife, including lions, elephants, and zebras. For those interested in history, the Midlands does not disappoint. The Nalatale Ruins, a set of ancient stone structures, offer a mysterious yet captivating look into Zimbabwe's past. Walking through these ruins, you can't help but feel a sense of wonder and awe at the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the ancient builders. The Midlands also offers a variety of activities for adventure seekers. You can go hiking in the picturesque Matopos Hills, explore the underground wonders of the Domboshava Caves, or enjoy water sports at Lake Chivero. The region's vibrant markets and local crafts provide a perfect opportunity to take home a piece of Zimbabwean culture. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or adventure enthusiast, the Midlands region of Zimbabwe promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Midlands.

Visit Antelope Park early in the morning to catch the animals at their most active.
Carry cash, as credit card facilities may not be available in remote areas.
Hire a local guide to get the most out of your visit to the Nalatale Ruins.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes when exploring the Matopos Hills.
Don't forget to try the local cuisine at Gweru's markets.

Top City Travel Guides in Midlands

The cities of Midlands, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Harare

Masvingo

Gweru

Chinhoyi

Destinations in Midlands

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Matobo National Park

Great Zimbabwe National Monument

Explore Midlands: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Midlands

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Victoria Falls National Park

Explore the stunning Victoria Falls National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting breathtaking waterfalls and rich wildlife experiences.

4.7

Victoria Falls Bridge

Discover the breathtaking Victoria Falls Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel offering thrilling adventures and stunning views of one of nature's wonders.

4.6

Antelope Park

Explore Antelope Park, a premier wildlife and safari park in Zimbabwe, offering thrilling adventures and conservation experiences for all ages.

4.3

Hwange National Park

Explore Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife create unforgettable adventures in nature.

4.4

Best landmarks in Midlands

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Victoria Falls

Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest waterfalls in the world.

4.8

Nyanga National Park

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Nyanga National Park, a must-visit destination in Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands.

4.3

Mukuvisi Woodlands

Discover the beauty of Zimbabwe's wildlife at Mukuvisi Woodlands, a serene park in Harare filled with rich biodiversity and unforgettable experiences.

4.2

Chinhoyi Caves

Discover the hidden beauty of Chinhoyi Caves, a remarkable natural attraction in Zimbabwe with stunning limestone formations and crystal-clear waters.

4.2

Best restaurants in Midlands

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Queen of Hearts

Experience exquisite dining at Queen of Hearts in Harare – where local flavors meet international cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.

4.3

Gavas Restaurant

Discover the heart of Zimbabwean cuisine at Gavas Restaurant, where every dish tells a story.

4.3

The Jam Tree

Discover the flavors of Harare at The Jam Tree - where delicious food meets vibrant atmosphere.

4.2

St Elmo's

Experience the best of Italian cuisine at St Elmo's in Harare—a family-friendly restaurant known for its delicious food and warm atmosphere.

4.2

Best bars in Midlands

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

The Jam Tree

Discover a lively bar and grill in Harare, The Jam Tree, offering delicious meals, refreshing drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere for all.

4.2

Tin Roof Bucket Bar and Bistro

Experience the vibrant flavors of Zimbabwe at Tin Roof Bucket Bar and Bistro, where lively atmosphere meets delicious grilled cuisine.

4.1

The Q Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at The Q Bar, Harare's premier grill and bar destination.

3.9

Club Excite

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Club Excite in Gweru, a bar that combines great music, drinks, and an energetic ambiance.

3.7

Best nightclubs in Midlands

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Big Apple Night Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife and delicious grilled cuisine at Big Apple Night Club in Harare, a must-visit destination for tourists.

3.2

WOOD Sensations Club & Craft Beer House

Discover the vibrant nightlife at WOOD Sensations Club & Craft Beer House, where music, craft beer, and great company come together in Harare.

4.0

Club Excite

Discover Club Excite in Gweru, a lively bar known for its jazz nights and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for an unforgettable night out.

3.7

Dreams Nightlife

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Harare at Dreams Nightlife, where music and dancing unite for an unforgettable experience.

4.3

Best shops in Midlands

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Nice Time Mall

Experience shopping, dining, and entertainment at Nice Time Mall, Gweru's premier shopping destination.

3.3

Cross Roads Stores Silobela Midlands

Explore Cross Roads Stores in Silobela Midlands for a unique shopping experience with local crafts, delicious food, and vibrant community spirit.

3.7

TANY-TECH Tanyboy Technologies

Explore the best in computer accessories at TANY-TECH Tanyboy Technologies in Silobela, where technology meets affordability and expert advice.

3.4

giftitco.zw

Explore unique Zimbabwean crafts and gifts at Giftitco, a premier gift shop celebrating local artisanship.

5.0

Explore Midlands on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Midlands, mapped for you.

Midlands Essentials

Midlands in Zimbabwe is centrally located, making it accessible from various parts of the country. The nearest international airport is Harare International Airport (Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport), which is about 300 kilometers away. From Harare, you can hire a private taxi, rent a car, or take a bus to the Midlands. Buses are available from major cities like Harare and Bulawayo, with regular services to Gweru, the provincial capital of Midlands. Trains also operate between Harare and Bulawayo, passing through Gweru.
Within the Midlands, transportation options include taxis, minibuses (kombis), and car rentals. Taxis are a convenient way to travel around cities like Gweru and Kwekwe. Minibuses are widely used and are the cheapest mode of transport, though they can be crowded. Car rentals are available in major towns and provide flexibility for exploring the region at your own pace. For intercity travel, long-distance buses and trains are available.
The official currency in Zimbabwe is the Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL). However, the US Dollar is widely accepted and often preferred. Credit and debit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns like Gweru and Kwekwe, but they may have withdrawal limits and might not always dispense cash.
Midlands is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. Some areas in Gweru and Kwekwe have higher crime rates, including petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in busy markets and bus terminals. Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, 993 for fire, and 994 for an ambulance. Major towns like Gweru and Kwekwe have hospitals and medical facilities. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in urban areas for over-the-counter medications. For consular assistance, contact your embassy in Harare.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. If visiting churches, dress conservatively and remove your hat. Public Transport: Do be respectful and polite. Minibuses can be crowded, so be patient. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. In rural areas, a slight bow or a respectful nod is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Midlands like a local, visit the local markets in Gweru and Kwekwe to buy fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting historical sites like the Nalatale Ruins and the National Mining Museum in Kwekwe. For a unique experience, explore the natural beauty of places like the Antelope Park in Gweru, which offers wildlife safaris and conservation activities.

When is the best time to visit Midlands?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Midlands

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Midlands. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey there
  [Hey thair]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [See yah]
- YesYep
  [Yep]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomeNo problem
  [No prob-lem]
- Thank youThanks
  [Thanks]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry about that
  [Sorry uh-bout that]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [How's it goin'?]
- Fine. And you?Good. How about you?
  [Good. How 'bout you?]
- Do you speak English?Do ya speak English?
  [Do ya speak English?]
- I don't understandI don’t get it
  [I don’t get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [Can I see the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI’m vegetarian
  [I'm vege-tarian]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
  [Can I get the check?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Leave me alone!
  [Leave me alone!]
- Call the Police!Call 911!
  [Call nine-one-one!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI can't find my way
  [I can't find my way]
- I'm illI’m not feeling well
  [I'm not feelin' well]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
  [I want to buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just brows-ing]
- How much is it?What’s the price?
  [What's the price?]
- That's too expensiveThat costs too much
  [That costs too much]
- Can you lower the price?Can you give me a better price?
  [Can you give me a better price?]
- What time is it?What’s the time?
  [What's the time?]
- It's one o'clockIt’s one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
  [Can you point it out?]
- When's the next (bus)?When’s the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [A ticket to...]

History of Midlands

The Midlands region of Zimbabwe is steeped in ancient history, with archaeological findings indicating that it was home to early civilizations dating back thousands of years. One of the most prominent historical periods in the region is the era of the Rozvi Empire, which flourished in the 17th and 18th centuries. The Rozvi, known for their military prowess and sophisticated political structures, left a lasting legacy in the Midlands. Their capital, Danamombe, located near the present-day town of Gweru, served as a bustling center of trade and culture.
The colonial period brought significant changes to the Midlands region. In the late 19th century, British colonialists established Fort Salisbury (now Harare) and began expanding their control over the surrounding areas. Gweru, originally known as Gwelo, was founded in 1894 and quickly became a key administrative and commercial hub. The town's strategic location along the railway line connecting Bulawayo and Harare facilitated its growth, attracting settlers and businesses. Gweru's colonial architecture, such as the iconic Boggie Clock Tower, remains a testament to this era.
The Midlands played a significant role in the Chimurenga Wars, a series of uprisings against colonial rule. The First Chimurenga (1896-1897) saw indigenous communities in the Midlands region, including the Ndebele and Shona, rising against British settlers. This resistance was a pivotal moment in Zimbabwe's fight for independence. The Second Chimurenga, also known as the Rhodesian Bush War (1964-1979), saw guerrilla warfare intensify in the Midlands, with freedom fighters using the region's rugged terrain to launch attacks on colonial forces. Sites such as the Battle of Sinoia and the Selous Scouts' operations are etched into the historical landscape of the Midlands.
Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980, heralding a new era for the Midlands region. Gweru, now a vibrant city, continued to grow as an industrial and educational center. Midlands State University, established in 2000, has become one of the leading higher education institutions in the country. The city also saw infrastructural developments, with improved roads, healthcare facilities, and cultural centers contributing to its modernization. Despite economic challenges, the resilience of the people in the Midlands remains a defining characteristic, shaping the region's post-colonial narrative.
The Midlands region is a melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions. Various ethnic groups, including the Shona, Ndebele, and Chewa, contribute to the rich cultural tapestry. Traditional music, dance, and crafts are integral to the region's identity. The Midlands Agricultural Show, held annually in Gweru, showcases the agricultural prowess and cultural heritage of the area. Additionally, traditional ceremonies and festivals, such as the bira (spiritual ceremonies) and Njelele pilgrimage, highlight the enduring cultural practices that continue to thrive in the Midlands.