If you’ve got a layover in Bulawayo, don’t let it go to waste sitting at BUQ. The city, in Zimbabwe, is within easy reach — roughly 80 minutes by Taxi / Airport Shuttle. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Bulawayo, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Zimbabwe vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Bulawayo is roughly 80 minutes from BUQ via Taxi / Airport Shuttle. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in ZWL. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Getting to Bulawayo from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Bulawayo is the Taxi / Airport Shuttle, which takes about 80 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 100 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi / Airport Shuttle is usually the smarter call.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Bulawayo layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$8 |
| Meal | ~$15 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$33 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Exploring Bulawayo on a Layover
For a layover visit to Bulawayo, we’d suggest Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe and Bulawayo Railway Museum. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BUQ, check out Executive Lounge or Souvenir & Gift Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Bulawayo: The View Cafe and Haefelis Bakery & Cafe. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Restaurant (General Dining) or Airport Cafe & Coffee Shop. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at BUQ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Bulawayo’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at BUQ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Bulawayo itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Zimbabwe that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at BUQ include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Zimbabwe also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Bulawayo genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.