Milton Peta
When one talks of great business event venues in Zimbabwe the names and locations that readily come to mind include hotels in the Eastern Highlands and the Victoria Falls resort town. This is because they are already known because of their breath-taking and scenic views. In the case of the Victoria Falls, it is the town’s proximity to the seventh wonder of the world – the mighty Victoria Falls.
Apart from these globally-renowned venues, a number of other wonderful business event venues which are equally close to known tourist attractions abound in Zimbabwe. One such venue is the Great Zimbabwe Hotel which is located just a kilometre away from the Great Zimbabwe Monument – the World Heritage Site after which the country was named.
The hotel and the monument are situated about 322 kilometres from Harare and 20 kilometres west of Masvingo. The monuments are Africa’s largest stone structure after the Egyptian pyramids and the most splendid ancient monuments in sub-Saharan Africa with traces of wealthy iron age community and walls built of unique solid stone structures without mortar.
The Great Zimbabwe Hotel being the closest to the monument has spacious and comfortable accommodation comprising 38 single rooms and double rooms (with twin beds or a double bed). Additionally, it offers a family suite, a deluxe suite and a number of standard suites in nearby satellite buildings. The rooms all overlook a courtyard with lush gardens. It is therefore not surprising that global celebrities such as the former South African President, the late Nelson Mandela and Queen Elizabeth II of England have stayed here before.
The Great Enclosure Restaurant serves delicious a la carte and buffet menus. The décor in the restaurant echoes the distinctive stonework of the Great Zimbabwe monument, and the service is warm and friendly. The cocktail bar serves a full selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as a snack menu. For the first time visitor, one should remember to ask for the Great Zimbabwe Rocks cocktail. Those who are planning a day trip one can ask for a packed breakfast and lunch.
The hotel’s meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) facilities include two main conference rooms – one with a capacity of 100 delegates, and a second venue with a capacity of 250 delegates. Its close proximity to the Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site also makes the Great Zimbabwe Hotel a very popular destination wedding venue in Zimbabwe.
The conference delegate at the Great Zimbabwe Hotel will be spoilt for the choice of accompanying activities. They can take some time to relax at the swimming pool, tennis court or volleyball pitch. They can also go on guided tours to Lake Mutirikwi and Kyle Game Park amongst others.
- Milton Peta is a Banqueting Co-ordinator at a Harare hotel. He has a passion for special events, leadership, entrepreneurship, tourism and hospitality as well as philanthropy. He writes in his personal capacity.