DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Animal habitat
—°
Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)

Weather…

The Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary, often associated with the Aisleby Farm complex, is a major refuge for waterfowl and migratory birds in southwestern Zimbabwe. The area comprises various reservoirs, settling ponds, and adjacent grasslands, creating an exceptional diversity of habitats. Over 400 bird species have been documented in this region, including rare species such as the Wattled Crane and various eagle species. The significance of the area lies in its function as a stopover site during bird migrations between Europe and Southern Africa. The water surfaces provide good conditions for flamingos, pelicans, and numerous duck species, which are found here in large numbers, especially during the dry season. Geographically, the sanctuary is located on the edge of the Kalahari Basin, which makes the climate dry and hot, with artificial water bodies serving as a vital oasis. Local ornithological groups are intensively involved in conserving this ecosystem and conduct regular counts to monitor the health of the populations.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C232221191714141721242423
Rain mm1261207931632172783144

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary is rewarding year-round, but the best birdwatching is during the rainy season from November to March. Then many migratory birds are present and the vegetation is lush.
🌅
Best time of day
The morning hours right after sunrise are most active for birds. The evening twilight also brings out many species.
📜
Etiquette
Stay on designated paths and avoid noise to prevent disturbing the birds. Feeding the birds is prohibited.
🎒
What to bring
Binoculars with good magnification are a must for bird identification. Comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen are also recommended.
🧭
Getting there
The sanctuary is located on the outskirts of Bulawayo, near the Matopos Road. It is easily accessible by car or taxi from the city.
🦌
What to expect
The birds are accustomed to visitors, but some species are shy. Find a quiet spot and wait patiently.

Geography

Coordinates
-20.20000, 28.50000

Facts

  • More than 400 different bird species recorded
  • Crucial stopover point for intercontinental migrants
  • Includes man-made water bodies for wastewater treatment
  • Site for the globally threatened Wattled Crane
  • Located at an average elevation of 1,350 meters
  • Hub for ornithological research in the Matabeleland region

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bulawayo Dry PortBulawayo Dry Port8 km · NEExplore →
Khami RuinsKhami Ruins9 km · SEExplore →
Bulawayo City HallBulawayo City Hall10 km · NEExplore →
Barbourfields StadiumBarbourfields Stadium10 km · NEExplore →
Bulawayo HillsBulawayo Hills11 km · NExplore →
Bulawayo Children's ParkBulawayo Children's Park15 km · NEExplore →
Old BulawayoOld Bulawayo17 km · NWExplore →
King Mzilikazi's GraveKing Mzilikazi's Grave17 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary offer?
It is a peaceful place for observing numerous rare bird species.
When is the best time for observation?
Early morning or late afternoon the birds are most active.
Is picnicking allowed in the sanctuary?
No, out of respect for the animals, picnicking is strictly prohibited.
Is binoculars necessary?
Yes, for good observation of the birds, binoculars are highly recommended.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, occasionally there are expert-led tours for small groups.
Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary: where is it located?
Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary is located in Zimbabwe.
Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.
Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary: why is it worth visiting?
The Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary, often associated with the Aisleby Farm complex, is a major refuge for waterfowl and migratory birds in southwestern Zimbabwe.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Africa
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Africa
More places in Zimbabwe →

Nearby cities

Bulawayo — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Bulawayo
Bulawayo is Zimbabwe's second-largest city and is widely known as the 'City of Kings' due to its rich Ndebele heritage.
Inyati — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Inyati
Inyati is one of the oldest modern settlements in Zimbabwe, founded in 1859 as a mission station.

History & landmarks

Bulawayo City Hall — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Bulawayo City Hall
The historic municipal administration building in the center of Bulawayo.
NRZ Headquarters — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
NRZ Headquarters
The imposing main administration building of the National Railways of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo.
🗺️
Barbourfields Stadium
The main football stadium in Bulawayo and home to the popular club Highlanders FC.
Bulawayo Centre — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Bulawayo Centre
A large shopping and business complex in downtown Bulawayo.
St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica (Bulawayo) — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica (Bulawayo)
A Roman Catholic basilica in Bulawayo featuring impressive architecture.
Centenary Park Amphitheatre — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Centenary Park Amphitheatre
A distinctive open-air theater located within Bulawayo's large Centenary Park.

More places

Bulawayo Dry Port — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Bulawayo Dry Port
An inland terminal strategically placed to connect South African and regional rail networks.
Khami Ruins — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Khami Ruins
Khami was the capital of the Torwa dynasty and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Delta Beverages Bulawayo — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Delta Beverages Bulawayo
A key brewing and distribution hub for the southern regions of Zimbabwe.
Bulawayo Children's Park — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Bulawayo Children's Park
A public park with play areas for children.
Old Bulawayo — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Old Bulawayo
The former capital of King Lobengula, which he burned down himself in 1893.
🗺️
How Mine
A significant gold mining operation located just outside Bulawayo.
Bulawayo Hills — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
Bulawayo Hills
Hilly terrain around Bulawayo.
King Mzilikazi's Grave — Bulawayo Bird Sanctuary (Zimbabwe)
King Mzilikazi's Grave
The secret cave grave of the founder of the Ndebele Empire.