Cheap Flights to Bulawayo

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Popular airlines to Bulawayo

What you need to know for your flight to Bulawayo

Flights to Bulawayo at a glance

Traveling to Bulawayo is easy; you can choose from full-service or budget airlines. Compare travel times and select the best option that fits your budget and schedule as you plan to discover the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airport in Bulawayo: Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ)
  • Flights per week: 23 flights arriving at Bulawayo airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Bulawayo: around 2 carriers

Popular airport in Bulawayo

Bulawayo is a vibrant city ideal for outdoor family adventures. Travelers flock to Bulawayo for its stunning scenery and eco-friendly activities. The city is conveniently served by a major airport, making it easy for visitors to arrive and start their journey exploring all that Bulawayo has to offer.

  • Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ): Located in Bulawayo, this airport operates both domestic and international flights, linking approximately 2 domestic cities and 1 international destination. Key airlines servicing this airport include Fastjet and South African Airlink.

Top routes to Bulawayo

  • Johannesburg (JNB) to Bulawayo (BUQ), with one-way flights starting at around $150
  • Harare (HRE) to Bulawayo (BUQ), with one-way tickets available from around $110
  • Victoria Falls (VFA) to Bulawayo (BUQ), with one-way fares starting at around $120

Cheapest routes to Bulawayo

  • Harare (HRE) to Bulawayo (BUQ), with low one-way fares from around $110
  • Victoria Falls (VFA) to Bulawayo (BUQ), with affordable one-way prices from around $120
  • Johannesburg (JNB) to Bulawayo (BUQ), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $150

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Bulawayo

  • Fastjet: Operating flights to Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ), Fastjet represents about 54% of arrivals in Bulawayo. The typical one-way fare hovers around $160.
  • South African Airlink: Also serving Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport (BUQ), South African Airlink accounts for approximately 46% of arrivals to Bulawayo, with an average one-way ticket costing around $170.

Best time to fly to Bulawayo

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Bulawayo are January, April, and August, when peak temperatures in Bulawayo can reach up to 70.9°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider July, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 57.6°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $155, roughly 9% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? March, November, and August offer average one-way fares of around $160, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January70.9°F (21.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$164
February70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$168
March69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$159
April66.4°F (19.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyHigh$199
May63.0°F (17.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$155
June58.6°F (14.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$170
July57.6°F (14.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyLow$163
August63.9°F (17.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHigh$162
September70.9°F (21.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyLow$187
October74.3°F (23.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyLow$178
November74.5°F (23.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$159
December73.0°F (22.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$181

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Bulawayo

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Bulawayo is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Bulawayo hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Bulawayo flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Bulawayo

Bulawayo welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Bulawayo efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Bulawayo, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Bulawayo is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Bulawayo on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around Bulawayo

  • Matopos: Matopos is located 29 miles drive away from Bulawayo and is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore the breathtaking Matobo National Park, known for its unique rock formations and rich wildlife. The Matobo National Park Arboretum Entrance is perfect for families wanting to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. For those interested in history and culture, the Rock Art Caves offer a glimpse into ancient civilizations, making Matopos a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
  • Highmount: Highmount is located in the area of Bulawayo and offers a blend of history and culture for travelers. The City Hall stands as a historic civic government building, showcasing impressive architecture and local heritage. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the National Art Gallery Bulawayo, which features a diverse collection of Zimbabwean artwork. For a relaxing day out, Centenary Park provides a lovely urban space perfect for families and outdoor activities, making Highmount a charming spot to explore.
  • Southdale: Southdale is located in the area of Bulawayo and is an intriguing destination for those interested in local events and education. The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair serves as a prominent fairground, ideal for family outings and community engagement. Nature lovers can visit the Hillside Dams Conservation, a serene reserve that showcases local flora and fauna. Additionally, the National University of Science and Technology adds a modern touch to this village, making Southdale an appealing stop for those looking to experience the dynamic culture of Bulawayo.

Tips for short-haul flights to Bulawayo

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it’s often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by bringing mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and coordinating your outfits. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Bulawayo

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines may allow you to select your seat for free once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines even offer seat selection earlier than this.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration processes.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge, if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Bulawayo?
Schedule your trip for if you're looking for a deal on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Bulawayo. Try to avoid traveling during busy periods such as school vacation time or public holidays.
Which US cities fly direct to Bulawayo?
If you'd rather fly to Bulawayo without a stopover, check out all the options by choosing "Direct flights only" when you explore available journeys on Expedia.
How to find a cheap flight to Bulawayo?
Book in advance to score cheap flights to Bulawayo. Also, consider visiting during off-peak months like February and June. If you jet off on a Thursday, you'll save 16% on average compared to departing on a Sunday.* Save time searching every day and set up a price alert on the Expedia app. We'll send you a notification when fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Bulawayo?
You can find cheap deals on last-minute departures to Bulawayo, especially if your plans are flexible. Consider jetting out of a different airport, changing your dates or choosing an alternative airline to get a cheap flight to Bulawayo.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Bulawayo?
To snap up some of the biggest savings on domestic journeys, book your flight to Bulawayo 28 days ahead of your travel dates. For international flights, search for your ticket two to four months in advance. This increases your chances of securing your preferred departure times and seats.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Bulawayo?
You'll save an average of 8% if you purchase tickets on a Sunday instead of Fridays, which tend to be the most expensive day to book.* When it comes to snapping up a cheap flight to Bulawayo, timing makes a difference.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Bulawayo?
Bulawayo is accessible from 4 airports globally through 4 airlines, with Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Intl. Airport (BUQ) as its chief gateway. Pick from these leading airlines to Bulawayo when organizing your journey:

  • Airlink (South Africa)
  • Fastjet
  • Ethiopian Airlines
  • Air Zimbabwe

Where do you fly into Bulawayo?
If you're flying to Bulawayo, the main airport to land at is Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Intl. Airport (BUQ).
How far is the airport from central Bulawayo?
You'll be approximately 8 mi north of central Bulawayo after arriving at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Intl. Airport (BUQ).
Can I save money by booking a Bulawayo trip package?
Book a Bulawayo flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you can make significant savings. It's simple to bundle your hotel and flight, and you can add tours and car rentals to create your own customized Bulawayo getaway. Plus, nothing beats the convenience of booking everything in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Bulawayo?
It's often possible to cancel or change your flight to Bulawayo. Many airlines allow you to cancel your ticket for free within 24 hours of booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may offer you a credit toward future flights in place of a direct refund. To reserve affordable flights to Bulawayo with flexible change policies, pick the "Changes included" or "No cancel fee" filters during your search. Looking for more information? Check out our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Bulawayo
Destination airport IATA code
ZW-BU