If you’ve got a layover in Gwert, don’t let it go to waste sitting at GWE. The city, in Zimbabwe, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave GWE:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Zimbabwe. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Gwert takes about 30 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Gwert from GWE
You have two main options for getting from Thornhill Air Base into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Gwert:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Exploring Gwert on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Gwert:
Start with Antelope Park. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Gweru Military Museum. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside GWE — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Main Terminal Waiting Area
- Small Airport Kiosk/Shop
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Gwert: Village Inn and Gweru Sports Club Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Air Base Canteen / Snack Bar or Coffee & Refreshments Counter. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at GWE can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Gwert for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at GWE, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Gwert 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
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, GWE has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Gwert exploring the streets or relaxing at GWE, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.