· ZW

Gweru

Gweru, Midlands, Zimbabwe

Step Back in Time and Embrace Tranquility in Gweru, Zimbabwe Nestled in the heart of Zimbabwe, Gweru, the capital of the Midlands province, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Forget the …

#Gweru#Midlands#Zimbabwe#City#Urban

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Gweru.

Top Hotels in Gweru

Top Flights to Gweru

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Gweru.

Tours

Gweru Botanical Gardens Tour

Explore a variety of plant species at the Gweru Botanical Gardens, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Gweru Museum Visit

Discover the rich history and culture of the Gweru region through fascinating exhibits.

Boggie Clock Tower Visit

A landmark in Gweru offering insights into the city's colonial past.

Shopping

Mkoba Shopping Centre Experience

Shop for unique local products and enjoy authentic Zimbabwean cuisine.

Outdoor

Wildlife Safari at Antelope Park

Experience a thrilling wildlife safari at one of Zimbabwe's leading conservation areas.

Hiking at Nalatale Ruins

Embark on a historical hike at the ancient Nalatale Ruins, offering panoramic views.

Explore Simbi Park

Enjoy a day with family and friends at Simbi Park, a favorite local picnic spot.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Gweru.

Currency
ZWL | ZWL | Zimbabwean Dollar
Population
141260.0
Languages
English, Shona, Ndebele
Average weather
Gweru
Jan
rain
26°15°
Feb
rain
26°15°
Mar
rain
25°14°
Apr
cloud
24°11°
May
clear
22°8°
Jun
cold
20°5°
Jul
cold
20°5°
Aug
clear
23°7°
Sep
sun
27°11°
Oct
hot
29°14°
Nov
rain
27°15°
Dec
rain
26°16°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Gweru.

What people love

Gweru, located in the Midlands province of Zimbabwe, offers several attractions and activities for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Gweru include:

  1. Antelope Park: This wildlife conservation center offers visitors the opportunity to interact with and learn about African wildlife. Visitors can participate in activities such as walking with lions, elephant interactions, and horseback safaris.

  2. Kudzima Safari Lodge: This luxury lodge provides a tranquil getaway in the heart of the Zimbabwean bush. Visitors can enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and game drives to spot a variety of wildlife.

  3. Gweru Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the Midlands province, featuring exhibits on the local flora and fauna, as well as displays on the region's mining and railway history.

  4. Maboleni Safari and Game Ranch: This private game reserve offers visitors the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Activities such as game drives, bush walks, and bird watching are available for visitors to enjoy.

  5. Midlands Black Rhino Conservancy: This conservancy is dedicated to the protection and conservation of the critically endangered black rhino. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts and may have the opportunity to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat.

Overall, traveling to Gweru can provide visitors with a unique wildlife experience, opportunities to learn about local culture and history, and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Midlands province in Zimbabwe.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Gweru, Zimbabwe, could include:

  1. Safety concerns: Like many places, Gweru may have certain safety issues such as petty crime or theft. It's always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings while traveling.

  2. Limited tourist infrastructure: Gweru is not a major tourist destination compared to other cities in Zimbabwe, so the availability of tourist facilities and services may be more limited.

  3. Limited transportation options: Getting around Gweru may be more challenging compared to larger cities, as public transportation options could be limited.

  4. Health concerns: Travelers to Gweru should be aware of potential health risks such as malaria or other tropical diseases, and take appropriate precautions.

  5. Limited entertainment and nightlife options: Gweru may not offer as many entertainment or nightlife options compared to larger cities, so visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife scene may be disappointed.

It's important to do thorough research and plan accordingly before traveling to Gweru to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Gweru, located in the Midlands province of Zimbabwe, has a rich history that reflects the broader historical developments of the region. Initially known as Gwelo, the city was founded by Dr. Leander Starr Jameson in 1894 as a military outpost for the British South Africa Company during the colonial era. It served as a key point of control and administration as the British expanded their influence in Southern Africa.

Significant Events:

  1. Colonial Era: Gweru grew rapidly during the early 20th century due to its strategic position on the railway line connecting Harare (then Salisbury) to Bulawayo. The town became a hub for agricultural production and trade, particularly in cattle ranching.

  2. Independence and Name Change: With Zimbabwe's independence in 1980, Gwelo was renamed Gweru. The city continued to develop as an industrial center, contributing significantly to the country's economy.

  3. Economic Changes: Post-independence, Gweru faced economic challenges like the rest of Zimbabwe, particularly during the economic downturns of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. However, it has remained an important industrial and commercial hub, with manufacturing, agriculture, and mining playing significant roles.

Historical Figures:

  • Dr. Leander Starr Jameson: A key figure in the establishment of Gweru, Jameson was a British colonial administrator and politician, known for the Jameson Raid and his role in the colonization of what was then Rhodesia.

Important Landmarks:

  1. Boggie Clock Tower: A well-known landmark in the city center, the Boggie Clock Tower is a memorial to Major William James Boggie, an influential figure in the early days of the town's development.

  2. Antelope Park: Located just outside Gweru, Antelope Park is a wildlife sanctuary and a popular tourist destination known for its conservation efforts and opportunities to interact with lions and other wildlife.

  3. St. Theresa's Cathedral: Serving as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Gweru, this cathedral is an important religious and historical site in the city.

  4. Midlands State University: Established in 1999, it is one of Zimbabwe's leading universities and plays a central role in the educational and cultural life of Gweru.

Throughout its history, Gweru has been a microcosm of the wider historical currents in Zimbabwe, from colonial establishment and economic growth to the challenges and changes experienced in post-independence Zimbabwe.