The Chimanimani National Park is probably Africa’s least-known nature reserve. An hour’s jeep-ride from the village, it includes the magnificent Chimanimani Mountains, a massive barrier of ancient and jagged crystalline rock forming the border with Mozambique.
The breathtaking beauty and pristine environment of these mountains have always drawn adventurous travellers. At present the park provides only basic facilities, catering for the self-sufficient explorer. Hiking, rock climbing, birding, camping in caves among the sparkling waterfalls and natural swimming pools ... it’s a park for those who want nothing more than to revel in the heart-soothing loveliness of nature.
Local tour guides with excellent knowledge of the area’s specialised wild plants and animals offer hiking tours into the national park.
Things to do
In the village itself one can book a visit to a traditional Shona village, join an African-drum making workshop, chat with the locals at the village cafe, arrange a horseback ride in the forest, explore the local marketplace (msika), or book a round of golf at the 9-hole country club.
A pleasant walk takes visitors to the lovely Bridal Veil Falls - a favourite picnic spot - and in the hills above Chimanimani village there’s an Eland Sanctuary.
The Outward Bound organisation has a facility at the foot of the mountain, and the challenging terrain is occasionally used by other organisations for team-building, super-fitness training and orienteering.
For accommodation choices see below.
But what Chimanimani offers most is serenity, where the pace slows down and the stress and crowds of the city fade away.
Accommodation
Places to stay in Chimanimani are limited, and some people find accommodation as far away as Chipinge, or Hot Springs on the Mutare road at the foot of the escarpment. But near to Chimanimani there is a fair amount of choice - from the luxury of Muwenje Lodge on the edge of the National Park, to pitching your tent in a field near the village green or at Heaven Lodge. See below for contact numbers.
Chimanimani Hotel
Standard Hotel accommodation in this 1 star hotel. Slightly old-fashioned but has beautiful gardens, a swimming pool and is central to the village. Most of the visiting performers stay here, and you can camp within the hotel grounds for a small fee.
Tel: 2511, 2513
Frog & Fern
Has a good reputation, offers self contained chalets and good food. 10 minutes by rough dirt road from the village - but don’t try the road in your low-slung sports car.
Tel: 2294
Heaven Lodge
Party central - the lodge is a popular hang out and has one of the best views of the mountains. Apart from camping it also offers dormitories and basic ablution and braai facilities. Overlander trips often stop over here.
Tel: 2701
Special mention: Msasa Cafe - right on the village green near the stage, and the best place for meals if you can find a table. Unusual decor (Haight Ashbury meets the Twilight Zone) with a tranquil tea garden out back, a pool table and a good Tex-Mex menu. Hosts small events at the Festival.
If you are planning on camping then you probably won't need to book - otherwise organise your accommodation today!
Wherever you decide to stay you will be impressed with the great atmosphere at this event. The mountains are a stunning backdrop for one of the highest Art Festivals in the world. That’s why we call it "the Festival with Altitude".
Telephonic Note:
If dialling from with Zimbabwe 026 is the Chimanimani STD Code. If calling from outside Zimbabwe dial country code 263 then 26 followed by the telephone number.
|
|
Travel Advisory
Zimbabwe may be going through hard times, but it is still 99% safe for tourists and visitors, who are made very welcome by most Zimbabweans.
How to Get Here
Chimanimani is accessible on tarred (macadamed, metalled) roads from two directions - via Mutare town, 3 hours east of the capital Harare, or from the south via Birchenough Bridge. (See map above)
Fuel: is generally available, but for high prices. Ask around. You are permitted to carry a spare jerrycan of fuel for long distance travelling.
There are various ‘chicken-bus’ services running at fairly regular intervals from both of the above towns - backpack travellers are advised to start the journey a few days early as these can be erratic.
For foreigners arriving by air, please follow the advice of your travel agent.
Currency
Look out for street money-changers, you could easily be cheated - plus it is actually illegal to change your foreign currency anywhere other than the official banks.
|
