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Cecil Rhodes Grave

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Historical site
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Cecil Rhodes Grave (Zimbabwe)

Weather…

The grave of Cecil John Rhodes is located atop Malindidzimu in the Matobo Hills, a site he famously dubbed 'World's View'. Rhodes, one of the most influential and controversial figures in Southern African history, died in 1902 and requested in his will to be buried among the massive granite boulders. The gravesite is hewn directly into the rock and covered with a simple bronze plaque. The location holds deep spiritual significance for the Ndebele people, making the presence of the grave a subject of long-standing political and cultural debate. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view over the vast, rugged landscape of Matobo National Park. Despite periodic calls for his remains to be repatriated or moved, the grave remains a major historical site that highlights the complexities of Zimbabwe's colonial legacy. The surrounding rock formations and the site's profound silence lend it an almost mystical atmosphere.

Best time to visit & climate

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C232322201715141721242424
Rain mm1111147732742182781123

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Cecil Rhodes' grave is open to the public and situated outdoors on a hill with expansive views. There is no indoor area to visit, as it is an open site. Visitors can access the grave at any time if they can reach the hilltop.
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Typical hours
Typically the site is accessible during daylight hours as there are no fixed opening times or security. It is advisable to visit in daylight because the hill is unlit and the path can be challenging.
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Photography
Photography is allowed without restrictions; there are no bans. The panoramic view from the hill gives great opportunities for wide-angle shots and souvenir photos.
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Time needed
A visit typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes just for the grave. Those wanting to enjoy the view and explore the surrounding area should allow around one hour.
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Combine with
It can be combined with other regional attractions like historical rock paintings or nature reserves. Guided tours often cover multiple sites in one trip.
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Getting there
The grave is best reached by a 4x4 vehicle as the roads are unpaved. Organized guided excursions are available from the nearest town.
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Insider tip
Visit the grave early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and get the best light for photos. Bring plenty of water as there are no facilities on site.

Geography

Coordinates
-20.55000, 28.51670

Facts

  • Cecil Rhodes died on March 26, 1902, in Muizenberg.
  • The grave is surrounded by six massive natural granite boulders.
  • Leander Starr Jameson and Sir Charles Coghlan are also buried nearby.
  • The site is known by the Ndebele as Malindidzimu, the dwelling place of spirits.
  • Rhodes' funeral was attended by thousands of people.
  • The bronze plaque reads: 'Here lie the remains of Cecil John Rhodes'.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Matobo Hills Rock ArtMatobo Hills Rock Art2 km · SExplore →
Matobo Rhino HabitatMatobo Rhino Habitat5 km · EExplore →
King Mzilikazi's GraveKing Mzilikazi's Grave25 km · NEExplore →
Old BulawayoOld Bulawayo29 km · NEExplore →
How MineHow Mine31 km · NEExplore →
Bulawayo Bird SanctuaryBulawayo Bird Sanctuary34 km · EExplore →
Bulawayo HillsBulawayo Hills35 km · EExplore →
Bulawayo Dry PortBulawayo Dry Port38 km · EExplore →

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 in the town Cecil Rhodes Grave (2)

Pomongwe Cave

Archaeological site in Zimbabwe. Rock shelter with prehistoric San rock paintings.

Matobo National Park

National park in Zimbabwe. Known for its granite formations, rock art and rhino conservation.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Cecil Rhodes' grave located?
It is located in the Matobo Hills, an impressive national park.
Do you need a guide to reach the grave?
The paths are marked, but a guide enriches the experience.
Is the climb strenuous?
It is a short but steep climb over granite rocks.
Can you see the Matobo Hills in one day?
Yes, the main points are doable in a day trip.
What is the best time of year to visit?
The dry season (May to September) is convenient.
Cecil Rhodes Grave: where is it located?
Cecil Rhodes Grave is located in Zimbabwe.
Cecil Rhodes Grave: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pomongwe Cave, Matobo National Park.
Cecil Rhodes Grave: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Aug, Sep.
Cecil Rhodes Grave: why is it worth visiting?
The grave of Cecil John Rhodes is located atop Malindidzimu in the Matobo Hills, a site he famously dubbed 'World's View'.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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