Explore Eastern Highlands

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"Eastern Highlands" also refers to Eastern Highlands Province in Papua New Guinea, and part of the Great Dividing Range, Australia. The Eastern Highlands, also known as the Manica Highlands, is a mountain range on the border of Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Wikipedia

🌄 Eastern Highlands Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit:

  • April to September (Dry Season):

    • Cool, crisp weather perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.

  • October to March (Wet Season):

    • Green and vibrant landscapes but expect heavy afternoon rains and mist.

How to Get There:

  • By Road:

    • About 3–4 hours’ drive from Harare or Mutare.

    • Accessible via well-maintained highways to towns like Mutare, Nyanga, and Chipinge.

  • By Air:

    • Small airstrip in Mutare, mainly for charter flights.

    • Nearest international airport is Harare.

Top Attractions:

  • Nyanga National Park:

    • Famous for hiking trails, waterfalls (like Mutarazi Falls — Zimbabwe’s highest), and ancient rock art.

  • Mutarazi Falls:

    • The second-highest waterfall in Africa (over 700 meters), breathtaking views and adventure activities.

  • Bvumba Mountains (Malvernia):

    • Scenic hiking, birdwatching, botanical gardens, and artistic villages.

  • Chirinda Forest:

    • Zimbabwe’s only tropical rainforest, home to rare bird species.

  • Gonarezhou National Park (nearby):

    • Offers game viewing, though more remote and wild.

Activities to Do:

  • Hiking to Mount Nyangani, Zimbabwe’s highest peak.

  • Visiting Mutarazi Falls lookout points or abseiling down the falls.

  • Birdwatching and spotting rare species like the Swynnerton’s robin.

  • Exploring ancient rock paintings at various sites in Nyanga.

  • Relaxing in mountain lodges and enjoying cool mountain air.

  • Cultural tours in local villages and markets.

Accommodation:

  • Nyanga:

    • Troutbeck Resort, Nyanga National Park Camp, Pungwe Safari Camp.

  • Mutare:

    • Elephant Hills Hotel, Leopard Rock Hotel.

  • Chipinge:

    • Chipinge Safari Lodge, Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge.

Food and Restaurants:

  • Local cuisine features fresh trout, traditional maize dishes (sadza), and fresh vegetables.

  • Mountain lodges offer hearty meals with local flair.

  • Try traditional Zimbabwean stews, roasted meats, and fresh fruits.

Local Culture:

  • The region is home to the Manyika people, known for their unique language dialects and crafts.

  • Traditional music and dance are part of community celebrations.

  • Local markets sell woven baskets, woodcarvings, and handmade textiles.

  • A peaceful, rural lifestyle focused on farming and eco-tourism.