Bulawayo in 1 Day for Friends - Guided rhino tracking in Matobo National Park
In Collaboration with Bushmen Travel Company. Updated on February 24, 2026.
Embark on a thrilling journey to Matobo Hills, Zimbabwe, tracking rhinos and uncovering ancient secrets, all while taking in breathtaking landscapes and enjoying a delicious Zimbabwean barbecue picnic.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Bushmen Travel Company, inspired by the tour The Best of Matobo. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided rhino tracking in Matobo National Park
- Visit White Rhino Bushmen rock paintings
- See Rhodes' Grave and Shangani Patrol memorial
- Scenic views, balancing rocks and sacred sites
- Zimbabwean picnic barbecue lunch with drinks
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided excursion from Bulawayo into the Matobo Hills for wildlife tracking, cultural sites and a picnic lunch.
Departure for Matopos
Pick-up in Bulawayo and drive into the Matobo Hills. Your guide will meet you at the pickup point, provide a brief introduction to the area and cover safety and bush rules before travel.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready at your confirmed pickup location 5–10 minutes before the scheduled time; the guide will collect guests across central Bulawayo.
- Bring your ticket/confirmation and a photo ID for check-in with the guide during pickup.
- Wear layered clothing for the morning drive; mornings can be cool but warm quickly once you arrive in the hills.
Matobo National Park – Rhino tracking, Bushmen paintings & historical sites
Guided walk to track rhinos with a safety briefing and bush rules, short refreshment break, then visits to the White Rhino Bushmen paintings and key historical sites including Rhodes' Grave and the Shangani Patrol memorial. Expect brief walks over uneven terrain and opportunities to spot plains game and birds.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear closed-toe hiking shoes and long trousers — terrain is rocky and sections can be steep or uneven.
- Carry a small daypack with binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, and spare camera batteries; phones may have limited signal in parts of the park.
- Stay with the guide at all times during tracking; maintain distance and follow instructions around wildlife for safety and minimal disturbance.
Lunch break (picnic barbecue) and return to Bulawayo
Enjoy a Zimbabwean picnic barbecue lunch at a scenic spot in the Matobo Hills with bottled water and soda provided. After lunch the group will board the vehicle for the return drive to Bulawayo, concluding the tour with drop-off at the original pickup zone.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform your guide in advance of dietary restrictions or allergies so the picnic can be prepared accordingly.
- Bring a reusable water bottle if you prefer; bottled water is provided but a refillable bottle reduces waste.
- Expect the return drive after lunch; secure any gear you won't carry on the walk in the vehicle before leaving for the picnic spot.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 2 |
| Total Places | 2 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Outdoor, Meal |