Romantic 12-Day Honeymoon Itinerary: Bulawayo, Matopos, and Hwange

Day 1: Arrival in Bulawayo

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

10:00AM

Check-in at Royal Victoria Hotel

Settle into your charming room at the Royal Victoria Hotel, which offers romantic views of the surrounding landscape.
15-minute drive from the airport.
USD120, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Crossing

Enjoy some delightful local cuisine at The Crossing, known for its serene atmosphere and lovely garden view.
5-minute drive from the hotel.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Bulawayo Railway Museum

Wander through the fascinating Railway Museum, learning about the history of this pivotal transport hub.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Indaba Restaurant

End the day with a romantic dinner featuring a mix of local and international cuisines.
10-minute drive from the museum.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 2: History and Culture

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast overlooking the landscape.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Natural History Museum

Explore the diverse exhibits of the Natural History Museum, which showcases the rich biodiversity of Zimbabwe.
15-minute drive from the hotel.
USD5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Diner

Savour a delicious meal at The Diner, known for its traditional Zimbabwean dish, sadza.
5-minute drive from the museum.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Walk through Centenary Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll in Centenary Park, perfect for relaxation and taking photos.
10-minute drive from the diner.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Bulawayo Art Gallery

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local art scene at the Bulawayo Art Gallery.
5-minute drive from the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Olive Garden

Dine at The Olive Garden for a lavish meal to cap off a cultural day.
10-minute drive from the gallery.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Matopos

Matopos, Zimbabwe

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up for the day with a breakfast buffet at the hotel.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Matopos National Park

Embark on the 30-minute drive to Matopos, home to stunning rock formations and wildlife.
Rent a vehicle or join a tour group.
USD15 (fuel/guide fee), 0.5 hours

10:30AM

Exploration of Matopos National Park

Take in breathtaking views and encounter wildlife in Matopos National Park.
Explore various trails within the park.
USD10, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Dakalala Lodge

Relish a leisurely lunch at Dakalala Lodge, with stunning views of the park.
Drive within Matopos National Park.
USD25, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Cecil Rhodes Grave

Hike up to the historic resting place of Cecil Rhodes and enjoy the views.
Short drive from the lodge.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Check-in at Matobo Hills Lodge

Experience a romantic stay at Matobo Hills Lodge, set in the tranquil wilderness.
20-minute drive from the grave site.
USD150, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Matobo Hills Lodge

Enjoy a private couple’s dinner under the stars, with a specially crafted menu.
At the lodge.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 4: Adventure in Matopos

Matopos, Zimbabwe

7:30AM

Breakfast at the lodge

Start with a sumptuous breakfast featuring local fruits.
At the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Morning Game Drive

Experience the thrill of a guided morning game drive within the park, spotting various animals.
Part of your lodge package.
Included, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a nearby picnic spot

Pack a delicious picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the beautiful landscape.
Organised by the lodge.
USD30, 2 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Bushman Paintings

Discover the ancient San Bushman rock art, a true connection to Zimbabwe's rich heritage.
Drive to the site.
USD10, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Matobo Hills Lodge

Spend your evening unwinding with a private spa treatment back at the lodge.
At the lodge.
USD80, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at the lodge

Savour a romantic dinner prepared by the lodge's chef.
At the lodge.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 5: Wildlife and Relaxation

Matopos, Zimbabwe

7:30AM

Breakfast at the lodge

Enjoy a healthy breakfast to fuel up for another wonderful day.
At the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Guided Horseback Safari

Experience the African bush on horseback while spotting wildlife in a unique way.
Arrange with the lodge.
USD100, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the lodge

Indulge in a lovely lunch featuring indigenous dishes at the lodge.
At the lodge.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit to Matopos Cultural Village

Immerse yourselves in the local culture by visiting a nearby village.
20-minute drive from the lodge.
USD10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset Viewing Point

Head to a stunning viewpoint to watch the sunset over the Matobo hills.
Close drive from the village.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Farewell Dinner at the lodge

Delight in a farewell dinner comprised of local delicacies and a celebration of your trip so far.
At the lodge.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 6: Travel to Hwange

Hwange, Zimbabwe

8:00AM

Breakfast at the lodge

Enjoy one last breakfast amidst the beauty of Matobo.
At the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Hwange National Park

Set out early for your next adventure with a 2-hour drive to Hwange.
Rent a vehicle.
USD20 (fuel), 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Hwange Safari Lodge

Arrive at Hwange Safari Lodge, perfect for unwinding after your journey.
At the lodge.
USD130, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at the lodge

Savour lunch overlooking the wildlife-rich watering hole.
At the lodge.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Afternoon Game Drive

Join a guided afternoon game drive to spot elephants and other wildlife.
Organised by the lodge.
USD50, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at the lodge

Revel in a delightful dinner at the lodge with a focus on local cuisine.
At the lodge.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 7: Exploration of Hwange

Hwange, Zimbabwe

6:30AM

Early Breakfast at the lodge

Have an early breakfast to prepare for the day’s adventures.
At the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

7:30AM

Morning Game Walk

Experience Hwange up close on a guided morning walking safari.
Organised by the lodge.
USD40, 3 hours

11:30AM

Brunch at the lodge

Enjoy a delightful brunch after your morning adventures.
At the lodge.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Ngamo Village

Learn about the local community by visiting Ngamo Village.
25-minute drive from the lodge.
USD10, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return for Leisure Time

Spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge’s deck, watching wildlife drink from the lodge’s pool.
Back to the lodge.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Join a Sunset Cruise

Delight in a magical sunset cruise along the Zambezi River, a perfect romantic experience.
At a river dock arranged by the lodge.
USD60, 2 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at the lodge

Finish the day with a cosy dinner prepared by the lodge with a stunning view.
At the lodge.
USD40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Wildlife Adventures

Hwange, Zimbabwe

6:30AM

Early Breakfast at the lodge

Fuel up with breakfast to embark on a full day of adventures.
At the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

7:30AM

Full-Day Game Drive

Spend the day on a thrilling game drive, exploring various areas of Hwange National Park.
Arranged through the lodge.
USD80, 6 hours (with breaks)

1:00PM

Packed Lunch in the Park

Enjoy a packed lunch while out in the park amongst the natural wildlife.
Provided by the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

2:00PM

Continue Wildlife Watching

Continue spotting wildlife during the cooler afternoon hours.
Within the park.
Included, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Lodge

Head back to the lodge after a fulfilling day in nature.
Drive back.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at the lodge

Savour another excellent meal overlooking the wilderness.
At the lodge.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 9: Relaxation and Reflection

Hwange, Zimbabwe

8:00AM

Breakfast at the lodge

Take your time and enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
At the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Nature Walk

Enjoy a peaceful nature walk around the lodge, spotting smaller wildlife.
Around the lodge vicinity.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Brunch at the lodge

Satisfy your appetite with a delicious meal at the lodge.
At the lodge.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Free Time for Relaxation

Spend the afternoon enjoying the lodge’s pool or spa facilities.
At the lodge.
Free, 3 hours

4:00PM

Visit Kennedy 1 Waterhole

Head to the famous Kennedy 1 Waterhole to observe wildlife at a popular gathering spot.
Short drive from the lodge.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the lodge

Cap off your day with a lovely dinner summarising your Hwange experience.
At the lodge.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 10: Return to Bulawayo

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

8:00AM

Breakfast at the lodge

Enjoy one last breakfast while soaking in the scenery.
At the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive back to Bulawayo

Make your way back to Bulawayo for a day of exploration.
Drive back with the rental car.
USD20 (fuel), 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at The Nesbitt Castle

Experience a unique stay at The Nesbitt Castle, known for its extraordinary architecture.
At the hotel.
USD110, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Nest

Enjoy lunch at The Nest, known for its fresh salads and local dishes.
5-minute drive from the hotel.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Walk around the Bulawayo Botanical Gardens

Stroll through the beautiful gardens while reminiscing about your journey.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Old Boma

Enjoy a delightful dinner at The Old Boma for a traditional atmosphere.
15-minute drive from the gardens.
USD35, 2 hours
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Day 11: Shopping and Local Experience

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Nesbitt Castle

Start the day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Bulawayo Market

Dive into the local culture by exploring the busy Bulawayo Market.
15-minute drive from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Grumpy Mule

Enjoy a hearty lunch at this popular local spot famous for its artisan sandwiches.
5-minute drive from the market.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Science

Learn about the cultural history of Zimbabwe through engaging exhibits.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD5, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to The Nesbitt Castle for Leisure

Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel.
Back to the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Nesbitt Castle

Dine in the castle setting for a majestic experience as your honeymoon nears its end.
At the hotel.
USD40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Departure Day

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Nesbitt Castle

Enjoy a final breakfast in the enchanting atmosphere of the castle.
At the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Last-minute shopping or sightseeing

Take the time to pick up any last-minute souvenirs or explore any missed sights.
Within Bulawayo.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Check-out and Departure

Check-out from the hotel and prepare for your onward journey.
Drive to the airport.
Free (if car is returned), 1 hour
View Hotel Availability