Highlights
- Hike the Breathtaking Bvumba Mountains: Explore the misty Bvumba Mountains near Mutare, known for panoramic views, diverse flora, and the serene Bvumba Botanical Gardens.
- Explore the Mystical Nyanga National Park: Visit Nyanga National Park, home to Zimbabwe’s highest peak, Mount Nyangani, and the majestic Mutarazi Falls. Experience history through ancient ruins and adventure with the Mutarazi Falls Skywalk and Zipline.
- Visit the Enchanting Chimanimani Mountains: Discover the rugged beauty of Chimanimani Mountains, ideal for hiking and camping. Highlights include Bridal Veil Falls and opportunities for birdwatching in this pristine wilderness.
- Immerse Yourself in Local Culture in Mutare: Engage with Zimbabwean culture in Mutare by visiting the Mutare Museum and Sakubva Market, where you can experience local traditions, crafts, and cuisine.
- Relax at the Tranquil Leopard Rock Hotel: Unwind at the luxurious Leopard Rock Hotel in the Bvumba Mountains, offering breathtaking views, a scenic golf course, and elegant dining, providing a perfect end to your Manicaland adventure.
Eastern Zimbabwe’s Manicaland province is home to beautiful scenery, a vibrant culture, and undiscovered treasures just waiting to be found. With its majestic mountains, old woods, and energetic locals, Manicaland provides a special fusion of adventure, peace, and cultural immersion. These are the top five things that every visitor to this fascinating region of Zimbabwe should undertake.
1. Hike the Breathtaking Bvumba Mountains
The “Mountains of the Mist,” or Bvumba Mountains, are a hiking enthusiast’s dream come true. These Eastern Highlands highlands, which are close to Mutare, provide some of Zimbabwe’s most breathtaking vistas. Trekking through a fairytale setting is enhanced by the mysterious ambiance created by the mist that frequently envelops the mountains.
There are several trails to choose from, catering to different fitness levels and interests. Whether you opt for a gentle walk through the lush forests or a more challenging hike to the mountain peaks, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views, diverse flora and fauna, and the peaceful ambiance of the natural surroundings. Don’t miss the Bvumba Botanical Gardens, where you can explore a rich collection of exotic and indigenous plants, or enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful scenery.
2. Explore the Mystical Nyanga National Park
Another must-see location in Manicaland is Nyanga National Park, one of Zimbabwe’s oldest national parks. Mount Nyangani, Zimbabwe’s tallest peak, is located in this park and offers breathtaking views and an exciting ascent. Nyanga is renowned for its waterfalls, the most well-known of which is Mutarazi Falls, which plunges 762 meters into the Honde Valley underneath. Try the Mutarazi Falls Skywalk and Zipline for an exhilarating way to see the falls from above if you’re looking for an adrenaline fix.
Nyanga National Park is rich in history in addition to its natural beauty. Ancient ruins that offer a window into the past of the area can be found scattered around the park, including the Nyangombe Fort and the Pit Structures. Adventure meets cultural exploration in Nyanga, a place that has a blend of ancient landmarks and natural beauties.
3. Visit the Enchanting Chimanimani Mountains
The Chimanimani Mountains, which separate Zimbabwe and Mozambique, are a rough and secluded location ideal for those looking for an experience off the usual route. With its breathtaking rivers, deep valleys, and towering hills, Chimanimani National Park provides some of Zimbabwe’s greatest hiking and camping opportunities.
A stunning waterfall that empties into a glistening lake, Bridal Veil Falls is one of the highlights of the Chimanimani Mountains. The falls are conveniently located near the trailhead and offer an ideal location for a picnic or a cool swim. With so many different species to see, including the elusive and rare Swynnerton’s Robin, the park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise. The pristine environment of the Chimanimani Mountains is ideal for individuals who cherish nature in its most pristine form.
4. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture in Mutare
Manicaland’s capital, Mutare, is a city that successfully combines modernism and traditional Zimbabwean culture. Spend some time at the Mutare Museum, which features displays on the history, culture, and natural heritage of the area, while you’re in Mutare. The museum provides unique insights into the colonial history of the area as well as the traditional ways of life of the local communities.
For a more hands-on cultural experience, visit the nearby Sakubva Market, one of the oldest and largest markets in Zimbabwe. Here, you can interact with local vendors, sample traditional foods, and purchase handmade crafts, textiles, and other souvenirs. The market is a bustling hub of activity and provides a vivid snapshot of daily life in Manicaland.
5. Relax at the Tranquil Leopard Rock Hotel
After days of adventure and exploration, there’s no better way to unwind than at the Leopard Rock Hotel, one of Zimbabwe’s most famous and historic hotels. Located in the Bvumba Mountains, the hotel offers luxury and comfort with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The hotel’s golf course is renowned for its scenic beauty, and even if you’re not a golfer, the peaceful gardens and elegant interiors provide a perfect setting for relaxation.
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea on the terrace, savour gourmet cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant, or simply take in the stunning views of the Bvumba Mountains as you relax. The Leopard Rock Hotel offers a luxurious end to your Manicaland adventure, combining elegance with the natural beauty of the region.
The province of Manicaland is filled with natural beauties, cultural legacy, and adventurous adventures. Discovering historic ruins, trekking through foggy mountains, or getting fully immersed in the local way of life are just a few of the many and remarkable experiences Manicaland has to offer. To truly experience the beauty and charm of this exceptional area, make sure to incorporate these five activities into your travel schedule.
