Eastern Highlands Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Eastern Highlands, including a list of places to visit, best things to do, and safety tips.


Introduction to Eastern Highlands

The Eastern Highlands is a mountainous region in Zimbabwe, Southern Africa. The region is known for its scenic beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and outdoor adventures. Eastern Highlands comprises three main mountain chains, including Nyanga, Bvumba, and Chimanimani. Nyanga is the tallest mountain and offers visitors multiple natural and cultural attractions. Bvumba is known for its vast tea plantations, natural forests, and botanical gardens. Chimanimani is a popular hiking destination with its rugged mountain peaks, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Highlands

Eastern Highlands has many must-visit places to ensure a complete journey of the region. Here are the must-see attractions in Eastern Highlands divided by cultural and natural attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Rhodes Nyanga National Park
  2. Nyanga National Park
  3. The National Botanic Garden of Zimbabwe
  4. The Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences
  5. Great Zimbabwe National Monument

Natural Attractions of Eastern Highlands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Vumba Mountains
  2. Bridal Veil Falls
  3. Chimanimani National Park
  4. Nyangombe Falls
  5. Aberfoyle Lodge

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Highlands

Eastern Highlands offers various hiking and biking trails across its national parks and mountain ranges. Here are the top hiking and biking routes:

  1. Nyanga Mountain Hike
  2. Chimanimani Mountains Trek
  3. Bvumba Forest Walk
  4. Chirinda Forest Walk
  5. Mutarazi Falls Hike

Best Things to Do in Eastern Highlands: Activities and Tours

Eastern Highlands offers various activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are the best things to do in Eastern Highlands:

  1. Trout-Fishing for Trout Lovers
  2. Tea Plantation Tours for History Lovers
  3. Cycling Tours for Nature Lovers
  4. Guided Rock Climbing for Thrill-Seekers
  5. Shopping at Local Markets for Cultural Enthusiasts

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Highlands

Here is a seven-day itinerary to cover the top sites and adventures of Eastern Highlands:

Day Itinerary
1 Visit Vumba Botanical Gardens and Old Mutare Mission
2 Hiking in Chimanimani National Park
3 Explore the Aberfoyle Lodge and Bridal Veil Falls
4 Tour of the Nyangombe Falls and Mutarazi National Park
5 Tea Plantation Tours and Trout Fishing
6 Guided Rock Climbing and Visit to Great Zimbabwe Monument
7 Shopping at Local Markets and Tour of Rhodes Nyanga Park

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Highlands

Eastern Highlands has a rich culinary culture. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Sadza (staple food made from maize)
  2. Braised beef
  3. Sweet potato pie
  4. Peanut butter stew
  5. Boerewors sausage

Local Beverages

  1. Chibuku (traditional beer made from sorghum)
  2. Mazoe Orange Crush
  3. Safari Lager
  4. Coffee
  5. Tea

Where to Stay in Eastern Highlands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eastern Highland has many accommodations that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  1. Inn on Rupurara (Bvumba)
  2. Troutbeck Resort (Nyanga)
  3. Aberfoyle Lodge (Nyanga)
  4. Chimanimani Hotel (Chimanimani)
  5. Pungwe Falls Lodge (Nyanga)

What to Buy in Eastern Highlands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Eastern Highlands has many unique souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some of the best things to buy in Eastern Highlands:

  1. Handmade pottery and ceramics
  2. Traditional cloth and textiles
  3. Handcrafted jewelry and accessories
  4. Spices and tea blends
  5. Local honey and jams

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Highlands

Eastern Highlands has a rich cultural heritage influenced by various ethnic groups, including Shona, Ndebele, and Tonga. Greetings are an essential part of Eastern Highlands’ culture. When greeting an elder or stranger, place your right hand on your left elbow while bowing slightly. Also, it’s customary to offer a small gift or token when visiting someone’s home.

Best Time to Visit Eastern Highlands

The best time to visit Eastern Highlands is from August to December when the temperatures are mild and rainfall is minimal. The region experiences a wet season from December to April, which may make hiking and outdoor activities challenging.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Highlands

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs
  2. Carry a map and a guidebook while hiking
  3. Try the local cuisine and beverages
  4. Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites
  5. Respect the natural beauty and ecology of the region

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the environment in any way
  2. Take photographs of locals without permission
  3. Carry or use drugs
  4. Disrespect elders or authority figures
  5. Wear revealing clothing

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern Highlands

Eastern Highlands is generally a safe travel destination. However, visitors should be aware of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft. It’s advisable to avoid walking alone at night, and always lock your accommodation’s doors and windows.

Health in Eastern Highlands

Before visiting Eastern Highlands, visitors should ensure they are up-to-date with their routine vaccinations, including measles, mumps, rubella, and hepatitis A&B. Malaria is present in the region, and visitors should take necessary precautions, such as taking antimalarial medication and using insect repellent.

Getting to Eastern Highlands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can access Eastern Highlands using various transportation modes, including air, bus, and private car.

Airports Near Eastern Highlands

  1. Harare International Airport
  2. Mutare Airport

Bus Stations Near Eastern Highlands

  1. Harare Road Port Authority
  2. Mutare Bus Terminal

Other Options

Visitors can hire a private car or taxi to explore Eastern Highlands’ attractions.

How to Get Around Eastern Highlands

Visitors can hire a private car, a bicycle, or a taxi to explore Eastern Highlands’ attractions. Walking is also an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Highlands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can continue their journey from Eastern Highlands to other attractions in Zimbabwe, including:

  1. Great Zimbabwe Monument
  2. Hwange National Park
  3. Victoria Falls
  4. Mana Pools National Park

Conclusion

Eastern Highlands is a beautiful travel destination offering visitors a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions, outdoor adventures, and comfortable accommodation options. Visitors should explore the region’s popular attractions, try the local cuisine and beverages, and respect the local culture and customs.