The City of Progress as it is affectionately known, anchoring Zimbabwe right in the middle of the country. With temperatures that resemble a European moderate winter, this City is a definite must-see when travelling to Zimbabwe. The city was formerly called Gwelo. The city took on the Shona name of its stream Gweru meaning steep sides. It is believed that the Amandebele women gave the river the name Gwelo because they could not climb the steep ground after filling their pots.
THE HISTORY OF GWERU
It was established as a military post. Gweru might have been one of the outposts of the Rozvi Empire. The surrounding area is rich in gold, chrome, and iron and asbestos. The town was laid out on the high ground between the north side of the kopje and the Gweru River, with the broad avenues running north to south and streets running east to west.
The Boggie Clock Tower: Gweru’s most famous landmark and has a beautiful love story attached to it. It was erected in 1928 by Jeannie in memory of her late husband. It is situated at the intersection of Main Street and Robert Mugabe way. It is one of the things you can see during the amazing Gweru City Tour.
Zimbabwe Military Museum: The military history gallery has detailed graphics of the wars of freedom fought in Zimbabwe during the last 100 years. It serves as the country’s National Army and Aviation Museum giving every reason to visit it. You can also view the aero engines, uniforms and equipment used during the war. The aviation gallery which is part of the museum has amazing collections of aircraft mostly in complete condition. The Armoured Vehicle hanger has some intriguing vehicles to see such as the 4×4 field artillery tractor.
Danamombe Ruins: is part of the big four pre-colonial ruins. The remains of the ruins showed the relics of a Portuguese outpost such as silver chalice and bells and portions of a bronze bowl. The remains make it clear that it was a place where Portuguese prisoners were kept during the 16th and 17th century. The architecture involves the use of traditional stone walling. Make sure you watch out for the patterned stone decorations on the wall.
Nalatale Ruins: situated 30 km away from the city. The remains found have been dated to the 17th century and the site was used by the “Torwa people”. The monument has the shape of a small kopje and allows you to enjoy the magnificent views of the Somabula Flats. The unique four-hundred year old stone wall is a must see when you visit Gweru.
WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO-DO IN GWERU
For a chance to feel like a bird: the Midlands Gliding Club gives you wings! Gliding is flying a plane without an engine. Get to experience how it feels like to soar for hours using the power and magic of air.
Picnic in the Shurugwi Hills: It is a short 30 km drive from Gweru. The picturesque Shurugwi hills and canyons offer magnificent views of Masvingo. You can enjoy a picnic with your friends and be sure to bring your own food and refreshments. The hills have an altitude of about 1440 metres. You can also stop over at the Boterekwa Escarpment and enjoy the beautiful scenic views.
Wine tasting: Zimbabwe’s largest distiller African Distillers has wide-spread vineyards that produce wine. You can visit the vineyards and enjoy Zimbabwe’s finest wine.
WHERE TO STAY WHILE VISITING GWERU
Gweru offers you a variety of accommodation options that suit different budgets. Bradley Gardens offers budget friendly accommodation for $30 for a standard room and it has comfortable beds. The rooms allow you to enjoy the scenic views of the gardens. Empumalanga Lodge also rates suitable for mid-range travellers, and you can have the chalet to yourselves for $60 per person for one night. If you want something luxurious and spacious you can stay at Midlands Hotel or The Village Inn and it is situated at the centre of town.
ANTELOPE PARK: WILDLIFE REHABILITATION CENTRE
It is a beautiful private game park on the outskirts of Gweru. The park gives you an opportunity to get up close with over 20 mammals such as zebras, impalas and giraffes. With over 190 bird species, the park is definitely a second home for bird lovers. Birds such as Rollers, Sunbirds and Hornbills can be seen around the park and the park also has one of the largest vulture concentrations in Southern Africa. Inside the park are a variety of exciting activities for friends and family, from game drives, horseback safaris, snake induction, lion feeding to sunset carriage rides. Antelope Park provides you with award-winning accommodation options to choose from. River tents, island lodges and campsites, the parks offer it all to suit different needs and budgets.
Gweru has so much to offer you and there is absolutely no reason why anyone would not include this city in their itinerary when visiting Zimbabwe. Book your tour with Tiritose Sustainable Travel and let us show you the beauty of Gweru.
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