Gwanda

Gwanda is the capital of Matabeleland South Province, located 140 km south of Bulawayo. It is a mining and administrative town, situated on the A6 highway to Beitbridge. The surrounding area has significant gold and other mineral deposits, and mining is the economic mainstay. Gwanda has a relaxed small-town atmosphere and serves as the commercial centre for southern Matabeleland South.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Bulawayo (BUQ, 140 km north, 2 hours).

By Train

No passenger train service.

By Car / Road

Gwanda is 140 km south of Bulawayo on the A6 highway (2 hours). Minibus kombis run frequently from Bulawayo, fare approximately US$3.

The town centre is walkable.

• Gwanda Museum: Small museum on local mining history and Ndebele culture.

• Surrounding mining areas: The gold-mining landscape south of the town.

• Exploring the Matabeleland South bushveld.

• Gwanda Hotel: Meals and bar snacks.
• Local takeaways: Sadza and grilled meat.

Bottled water is recommended.

• Gwanda Hotel: Basic rooms from US$20–35.
• Guesthouses: Several options (US$20–30).

Gwanda has supermarkets, hardware stores, and a lively market.

• Beitbridge (180 km south, 2.5 hours) — border with South Africa.
• Matobo National Park (100 km north, 1.5 hours) — granite kopjes and rhino.
• Bulawayo (140 km north, 2 hours) — Zimbabwe's second city.