Matabeleland, Zimbabwe: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Matabeleland, Zimbabwe? If you're planning to go to Matabeleland, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Matabeleland, Zimbabwe

Based on the climate and weather in Matabeleland, Zimbabwe, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Matabeleland, Zimbabwe

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Matabeleland, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Matabeleland, Zimbabwe by month

January

In January, Matabeleland is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) and 5-10 days this month jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Matabeleland, with several of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

February in Matabeleland is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

March in this region is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

April

If you go to Matabeleland in April, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

May

If you vacation in Matabeleland during May, you will probably notice that it is a perfect temperature and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

June

June is mild and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

If you visit Matabeleland during July, you may see that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you find the right type. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

If you vacation in Matabeleland during August, you may see that it is warm, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally around 30 during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

September

If you visit Matabeleland during September, you may notice that it is extremely warm, very hazy and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

October

If you are traveling to Matabeleland in October, you will notice that it is extremely warm and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

November

If you vacation in Matabeleland during November, you will probably notice that it is hot, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

December

If you vacation in Matabeleland during December, you will probably see that it is hot, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Zimbabwe has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Matabeleland may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

What to do in Matabeleland, Zimbabwe

Matabeleland is a province in the southwestern part of Zimbabwe known for its rich history and culture. The region is home to a variety of tourist attractions that are sure to captivate any visitor. From iconic monuments to stunning natural landscapes, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Matabeleland, Zimbabwe.

1. Victoria Falls

Undoubtedly the most famous attraction in Matabeleland, Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Known locally as "Mosi-oa-Tunya," which means "the smoke that thunders," the falls are over 1 mile wide and 328 feet tall. Visitors can witness the incredible power of the falls from several viewpoints, go on a guided tour, or even take a thrilling helicopter ride over the falls.

2. Khami Ruins

Located just outside Bulawayo, the Khami Ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and represent some of the finest examples of stone palaces found in southern Africa. Originally built in the 15th century by the Kingdom of Butua, the ruins provide insight into the complex socio-political system of the kingdom. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the fascinating history of the area.

3. Matobo National Park

Located just south of Bulawayo, Matobo National Park is a stunning landscape of granite hills, valleys, and bushland. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including white rhino, giraffe, and zebra. Visitors can also explore ancient rock art sites, the burial place of Cecil Rhodes, and enjoy hiking and camping in the park.

4. Bulawayo Railway Museum

For history buffs, a trip to the Bulawayo Railway Museum is a must. The museum showcases the history of the railway system in Zimbabwe and features antique locomotives, carriages, and other railway artifacts. Visitors can take guided tours and even ride on a steam train through the museum grounds.

5. Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre

Located in Bulawayo, the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre is a hub for local artisans to showcase their work. Visitors can purchase unique handicrafts and artworks, learn about traditional techniques used by the artisans, and even see live demonstrations of the artisans at work.

Overall, Matabeleland offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in stunning waterfalls, ancient ruins, or local handicrafts, there's something for everyone in this iconic Zimbabwean province.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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