Catching up on Gwango Tamarillo Estate

Jul 10, 2025

It’s been a few months since Gwango Tamarillo Estate in Bulawayo was completed and things are starting to settle in. For those unfamiliar with the story behind it, this was once the childhood home of Elisabeth, an owner of Gwango. The property had been left unused for over a decade before it was restored and reopened as a lodge. Today, it offers a relaxed and comfortable stopover for travellers visiting Bulawayo, for business, leisure or as part of a longer journey through Zimbabwe.

The landscaping has come a long way in a short time. The green spaces are beginning to soften the structure and have added warmth to the space and created areas guests can enjoy. One of the outstanding features is the wooden walking bridge over the pond and the expansive pond which attracts a number of birds. The natural setting has a peaceful space and a favourite spot for morning teas or late afternoon sundowners.

The lodge also now has a library that guests can access. It’s a simple, welcoming space where guests have even left a few books of their own. And just across from it is the brand new poolside bar, a place where guests will be able to enjoy a cool beverage, conversations and scenery. You’ll often find someone reading in the shade, or chatting over drinks with the sound of water and birds in the background. Space heaters have been added to the estate so guests can stay warm and comfortable when those Bulawayo evenings turn chilly.

The guest rooms remain the heart of the experience at Gwango Tamarillo Estate. The architecture of Gwango in general, has always been a sight to see, with enormous common space structures and rustic, but comfortable spaces. This lodge however, has blended the residential structure that was historically on the estate, with a grand dining area framed with the classic stone pillars that are an element in most Gwango properties, plus a multi-storey layout of guest rooms. The entire estate is enriched with thoughtfully crafted gardens and sand filled pathways. Complimentary Wi-Fi, en-suite bathrooms, private verandas and thoughtful touches throughout the lodge, make it an easy place to settle into for a few days. There is also secure parking, refined dining and a friendly team on hand to assist with any local information or travel logistics.

For business groups or special events, conference facilities can also be arranged on site. The estate is equipped to accommodate small planning sessions, private workshops or full-scale events.

Location-wise, Gwango Tamarillo Estate is well placed for those looking to explore Bulawayo and its surroundings. Matobo National Park is a short 30-minute drive away, with its dramatic landscapes, spiritual sites, ancient cave art and opportunities to spot rhinos on foot. Visitors can also take day trips to Khami Ruins or Tshabalala Game Sanctuary or spend time at the Natural History Museum, one of the best in the region.

This is something different for guests visiting Zimbabwe’s second-largest city. It’s a space that still carries some of its history but is becoming an ideal and inviting home away from home for today’s traveller.

For bookings or more information, contact reservations@gwango.com