Paul Hubbard, recently rated one of the top 10 guides in Africa, specialises in historical and archaeological tours throughout Zimbabwe. Built on the foundation of immense interest in and love for the history and archaeology of Zimbabwe, Hubbard’s Historical Tours specialises in leading tours with a difference around the country.
Hubbard’s Historical Tours have gained a loyal following in Bulawayo with our entertaining, well-researched historical dinner talks, Bulawayo of Yesteryear walking tours and Prospector’s pub crawls and, most recently, the appropriately-named Marvellous Makokoba Tour which explores the parts of the city less travelled by tourists and even many locals: the high-density suburbs which form a significant and vibrant part of the city’s historical past.
Makokoba is Bulawayo’s oldest high-density suburb, bursting with colourful life mingled with a deep history. This unique walking tour, run in collaboration with Drums of Peace, takes the visitor into the heart of this fascinating suburb, combining culture, history and daily life. Explore the local markets, indulge in traditional food and drink and experience a stimulating and interactive drumming session. Part proceeds from the tour are used to assist with the refurbishment and redevelopment of the Thabiso Youth Centre.
Min 3, Max 10 people.
Single Travellers, please do ask about joining a group departure or arranging your own personalised tour. Tour lasts approx 3-4 hours of walking with rest stops along the way (but this is flexible).
Focusing on the architecture and history, this walking tour in Bulawayo immerses the visitor into the life of a developed town while providing a unique viewpoint on urban history in the context of a developing country in Africa.
Min 3, Max 10 pax. Single Travellers, please do ask about joining a group departure or arranging your own personalised tour.
This walk back in time aims to take guests back to the heady days of Bulawayo’s pioneer boom, fuelled by gold and driven by some of the toughest prospectors ever to swing a pick-axe. This tour consists of an afternoon amble where we revel in the charming melange of Bulawayo’s buildings and bars while enjoying a quiet pint or two.
Min 3, Max 10 pax.
Single Travellers, please do ask about joining a group departure or arranging your own personalised tour. Tour lasts approx 3-4 hours of walking with rest stops along the way (but this is flexible).
At its peak, it was home to at least 8,000 people, who controlled the local gold, metals agricultural and ivory industries and traded with the outside world. The site is extensive, with impressive terraces and platforms built along the Khami River. Good bird watching along the river too. Full and half-day tours are offered.
Min 3, Max 10 pax. Drive 17km to the site – approx. 25 mins from the city centre. Tour lasts up to 4 hours, including walking up and down uneven stone stairways of medium steepness. Entrance fees are not included. Zimbabweans bring an ID to confirm their country of origin.
Studied by archaeologists and historians for over 120 years, the site has also been the epicentre of many unfounded controversies over who built it, when and for what purposes. Thanks to the work done by competent archaeologists since 1905 it is known without a doubt that Great Zimbabwe was built by the ancestors of the local Shona people between 1250 and 1500 AD. At least a full day – preferably two – is recommended to explore all that this site has to offer. The prime source of Zimbabwe’s pride in its past – the country takes its name from this site – Great Zimbabwe is a site that should not be missed by any visitor to the country.
A day drive to the site from Bulawayo or an overnight stay can be arranged if preferred. Tour includes walking up and down uneven stone stairways of medium steepness. Entrance fees are not included. Zimbabweans bring an ID to confirm their country of origin.
With community at the heart of our vision for Hubbard’s Historical Tours.