Discover the Spectacular Sightseeing Attractions of Matabeleland North

Matabeleland North is a beautiful province located in the western part of Zimbabwe. With its rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and historical landmarks, Matabeleland North is an ideal tourist destination. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the most famous sightseeing attractions in the province.

Victoria Falls

Undoubtedly, Victoria Falls is the crown jewel of Matabeleland North. This world-famous waterfall is located at the Zambezi River, which is one of the largest rivers in Africa. Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.The waterfall is known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” which means “the smoke that thunders.” This name is due to the spray that rises from the falls, which can be seen from miles away. The falls are 355 feet tall and 5604 feet wide, making them the largest waterfall in the world.Visitors to Victoria Falls can enjoy activities such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, and helicopter rides to get a bird’s eye view of the falls. Additionally, visitors can take a walk across the historic Victoria Falls Bridge, which was constructed in 1905.

Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is the largest national park in Zimbabwe and is home to a diverse range of wildlife. The park covers an area of 14,650 square kilometers and is located 100 km south of Victoria Falls. It is known for its large populations of elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and many other species.A visit to Hwange National Park is a unique opportunity to experience Africa’s wildlife up close. Visitors can go on guided game drives to spot the animals, and there are several lodges and campsites within the park, where visitors can stay overnight and fully immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty.

Khami Ruins

Khami Ruins is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 22 kilometers west of Bulawayo city. It is the remains of a once-great city that was a center of trade between the 14th and 17th century. The city was the capital of the Kingdom of Butua, a powerful kingdom that once dominated the region.The ruins feature an intricate design of walls, terraces, pit structures, and foundations built of granite blocks. The site consists of a royal enclosure, an operator’s enclosure, and a number of easily recognizable turrets built with ironstone.Today, visitors can take guided tours of the site to learn about the city’s history and marvel at the impressive architectural feats of ancient times.

Matusadonha National Park

Matusadonha National Park is located to the north of Kariba, on the southern shore of the great Kariba Dam—the largest man-made dam in the world, constructed in the 1950s. The park covers an area of 1400 square kilometers and is home to many animals, including lions, buffalo, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.Visitors to the park can take part in a variety of activities, such as boat cruises, game drives, fishing expeditions, and overnight camping at one of several campsites or lodges.

Bulawayo Railway Museum

The Bulawayo Railway Museum is located in Bulawayo city, Zimbabwe’s second-largest city. The museum is a historical landmark and houses a collection of locomotives, wagons, and railway artifacts that showcase the rich history of Zimbabwe’s railway industry.Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of trains and railway memorabilia, including an incredible collection of steam engines and a National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) Garratt locomotive, the largest and most powerful steam engine ever built in Africa. Additionally, visitors can take a ride on one of the museum’s vintage steam trains to experience the thrill of early rail transportation.

Conclusion

Matabeleland North province has a wealth of tourist attractions, from natural wonders to cultural and historical landmarks. Whether you are interested in wildlife or history, adventure or relaxation, this diverse region has something for everyone.A visit to Matabeleland North is an experience of a lifetime, and we hope that this guide has inspired you to explore the beautiful province’s many wonders. Plan your trip to Matabeleland North today and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Africa.

An Insider’s Guide to Discovering the Spectacular Sightseeing Attractions of Matabeleland North

Matabeleland North is a region of Zimbabwe that is often overlooked by tourists. But those who take the time to explore this hidden gem will discover a wealth of spectacular sightseeing attractions that are sure to capture their hearts. From breathtaking natural wonders to fascinating cultural experiences, here is an insider’s guide on how to discover the very best of Matabeleland North.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems in Matabeleland North

While Matabeleland North offers plenty of popular tourist spots, it’s the lesser-known attractions that often provide the most exciting and memorable experiences. For example, a visit to the Tshangabvu Rock Paintings in Bubi District offers a glimpse into the ancient art and traditions of the San people. Similarly, the Khami Ruins, located just outside of Bulawayo, provide a fascinating insight into the history of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe.

Another hidden gem is the Hwange National Park, which is home to one of the largest elephant populations in the world. Visitors can take a unique elephant-back safari through the park, getting up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

Dining Spots: The Authentic Taste of Matabeleland North

Matabeleland North’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the region’s proximity to South Africa, Botswana, and Zambia. One of the most popular local dishes is the sadza, a type of porridge made from ground maize. It is typically served with meat, vegetables, and relish.

One must-try dining spot for authentic Matabeleland cuisine is the Boma Restaurant at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. Here, visitors can enjoy a traditional braai (barbecue) while watching an energetic Zimbabwean dance show.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions and Festivals in Matabeleland North

Matabeleland North has a rich cultural history, with many festivals and ceremonies celebrating its traditions. The most popular of these is the Amagugu International Heritage Centre, which showcases the culture and customs of the Ndebele people.

Another must-see cultural experience is the annual Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA), which attracts performers from all over the world and offers a vibrant celebration of music, theatre, dance, and art.

Local History: Captivating Stories from Matabeleland North’s Past

Matabeleland North has a long and fascinating history, with many stories to be told. One such story is that of the Ingwenya Mine Disaster, which claimed the lives of over 300 workers in 1918. Today, a memorial and museum commemorate the event and serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by generations past.

Another captivating story is that of Cecil Rhodes, the British colonialist who played a significant role in shaping the region’s development. Visitors can explore the Cecil Rhodes Museum in Bulawayo to learn more about his influence.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For a truly unique experience, visitors can take a scenic helicopter ride over Victoria Falls, offering an unparalleled view of one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.

A visit to Zimbabwe is not complete without taking part in a traditional drumming and dance class, offered by a local cultural center such as Ibumba Arts Centre in Bulawayo.

Exploring Matabeleland North can be a truly magical experience, offering an insight into a fascinating and diverse region that is often overlooked by tourists. With so many hidden gems and unique experiences waiting to be discovered, it’s no wonder that more and more people are falling in love with this unexplored gem in the heart of Zimbabwe.