Free to be Wild Sanctuary in Bulawayo, Bulawayo: Tickets, Hours and Family Guide
Animals and wildlife in Bulawayo, Bulawayo
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Free to Be Wild is a heartfelt, educational experience that teaches children about wildlife rescue. The guided walk is personal and informative, and the animals are well cared for. Expect a rustic, authentic visit rather than polished entertainment.
What is Free to be Wild Sanctuary?
Free to Be Wild Sanctuary is a non-profit rescue and rehabilitation centre in Burnside, Bulawayo. It specialises in primates such as baboons and monkeys, though it accepts other animals, and focuses on rescue, rehabilitation, and release back into the wild. Visits are by guided bush walk (about 2 hours), during which families can see the animals and learn about the centre’s work. It is not a zoo, and the emphasis is on ethical care and conservation.
Wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and release.
Free to be Wild Sanctuary ticket prices 2026
| Visitor type | Adult | Child (All ages) | Yes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya / East African resident | ZWG 5 | ZWG 3 | Free |
| Non-resident | ZWG 10 | ZWG 5 | Free |
International adult US$10; local adult US$5. Children may pay a reduced rate. Confirm current fees on booking.
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💡 Money-saving tips for families
- Book ahead Guided walks only.
- Cash For entry and donations.
- Book ahead Guided walks only.
- Cash For entry and donations.
Is it right for your child's age?
| Age group | Verdict | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 years | Fair | Walk may be long for toddlers. |
| 3–5 years | Good | Animals engage young children. |
| 6–9 years | Excellent | Conservation stories are inspiring. |
| 10–12 years | Very good | Can understand rescue context. |
| 13+ years | Excellent | Ethical wildlife experience. |
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Key details
- Address
- Burnside, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Bulawayo
- Opening hours
- Guided walks at 09:00 and 11:00 (confirm ahead) Closed now
- How long to plan
- 2 hours
- Suitable ages
- All ages
- Setting
- Wildlife rescue centre
- Booking
- Required; book ahead
- Payment accepted
- Cash
- Phone
- +263 77 554 5546
What to expect when you visit
Guided bush walk
What if...?
The questions every parent asks before booking. Tap to expand.
Do we need to book?
Yes, visits are by guided walk only and should be booked ahead.
Is this a zoo?
No, it is a rescue and rehabilitation centre focused on release.
Family essentials
- Suitable age bands
- 0–2 years
- 3–5 years
- 6–9 years
- 10–12 years
- 13+ years
- Toddler suitability
- Yes, but walk may be long
- Minimum age
- 0
- Facilities
- Guided walks
- Access and parking
- Rustic paths
- Safety notes
Supervise children around animals
Tickets and costs
- Free entry rules
- No
- Extra costs (activities, rentals, food)
Guided bush walk
Plan your visit
- Best time to visit
- Morning walks
- Busiest times
- Weekends
- How to get there
In Burnside; contact ahead for directions.
- By car
- Yes, parking available
- Uber / Bolt estimate
- Taxi
- Public transport
Taxi
- Combine with
- Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage — larger wildlife rescue
- Bulawayo Railway Museum — railway history
- What to bring
- Closed shoes
- Sun hat
- Water bottle
- Insect repellent
- Cash
Accessibility deep dive
Here is what to expect on the ground.
Personal and informative.
Baboons and monkeys.
Learn about rescue and release.
Combine your visit
Plan the perfect day
What to pack
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Family day bag checklist
What visitors say
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Frequently asked questions
- How much does it cost to visit Free to be Wild Sanctuary?
- Kenya and East African resident adults pay ZWG 5 and resident children (ages All ages) pay ZWG 3. Non-resident adults pay ZWG 10 and non-resident children pay ZWG 5. Children yes enter free. International adult US$10; local adult US$5. Children may pay a reduced rate. Confirm current fees on booking.
- What are the Free to be Wild Sanctuary opening hours?
- Guided walks at 09:00 and 11:00 (confirm ahead). Busiest: Weekends.
- Is Free to be Wild Sanctuary suitable for toddlers and young children?
- Minimum age: 0. Supervise children around animals
- How long do you need at Free to be Wild Sanctuary?
- Plan for 2 hours.
- What payment methods does Free to be Wild Sanctuary accept?
- Free to be Wild Sanctuary accepts Cash.
- Is Free to be Wild Sanctuary accessible, and is there parking?
- Access and parking: Rustic paths.
- What is the best time to visit Free to be Wild Sanctuary?
- Morning walks. It is busiest Weekends.
- How do you get to Free to be Wild Sanctuary?
- Yes, parking available. Ride-hailing: Taxi. Public transport: Taxi In Burnside; contact ahead for directions.
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