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Manicaland
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Discover Manicaland, Zimbabwe's eastern paradise, where lush mountains, misty forests, and ancient ruins promise an unforgettable adventure.

Manicaland, a province in the eastern highlands of Zimbabwe, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Nestled between lush mountains and rolling valleys, this region is known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife. The cool, temperate climate makes it a perfect year-round destination, whether you're looking to hike through misty forests, explore ancient ruins, or simply relax in the serene environment.
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The city of Mutare, the provincial capital, serves as a gateway to Manicaland's many attractions. Here, you can visit the Mutare Museum to learn about the area's history and culture, or take a stroll through the Vumba Botanical Gardens, home to a wide variety of plant species. For the more adventurous, the nearby Chimanimani Mountains offer challenging hikes with rewarding views, including the picturesque Bridal Veil Falls.
Manicaland is also home to the Bvumba Mountains, often referred to as the 'Mountains of the Mist.' This region is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, tea plantations, and bird-watching opportunities. Don't miss a visit to Leopard Rock Hotel, where you can enjoy a round of golf on one of Africa's most scenic courses. The region is also rich in history, with sites like the Chikukwa Ruins offering a glimpse into the ancient civilizations that once thrived here.

When is the best time to visit Manicaland?

Best: May, August–September · 22–24°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January27171
February27161
March26131
April2581
May (best)2251
June2140
July2036
August (best)2240
September (best)2450
October2680
November27131
December27151

Getting to and around Manicaland

How to get there

Manicaland is accessible via air and road. The nearest international airport is Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare, approximately 270 kilometers away. From Harare, you can take a domestic flight to Mutare, the provincial capital of Manicaland. Alternatively, you can travel by road; private taxis, buses, and car rentals are available. The journey by road takes around 4 to 5 hours and provides scenic views of the Zimbabwean countryside.

Transportation

Within Manicaland, transportation options include taxis, minibuses (kombis), and car rentals. Taxis are readily available in larger towns like Mutare and are relatively affordable. Kombis are the primary mode of public transport and connect various towns and villages within the province. For more flexibility, renting a car is recommended, especially if you plan to explore remote areas and natural attractions.

Top city travel guides in Manicaland

The cities of Manicaland, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Destinations in Manicaland

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Best attractions in Manicaland

Manicaland, Zimbabwe is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering visitors a captivating blend of scenic landscapes and rich history. Nestled in the Eastern Highlands, the stunning Bvumba Mountains provide panoramic views and lush botanical gardens, perfect for hiking and bird-watching. Nyanga National Park, with its rolling hills and cascading waterfalls, invites adventurers to explore its diverse wildlife and ancient archaeological sites, including the famed Nyangombe Falls and the mystical Mount Nyangani, the highest peak in Zimbabwe. For a historical journey, the ruins of Old Mutare and the sacred Chinhoyi Caves offer a glimpse into the region's colonial past and indigenous traditions. The Rusape and Honde Valleys boast vibrant local markets and traditional crafts, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local Shona culture. Manicaland’s unique blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures make it a must-visit for any traveler seeking an authentic Zimbabwean experience.

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Best landmarks in Manicaland

Manicaland, Zimbabwe, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the awe-inspiring Bvumba Mountains, shrouded in mist and rich with botanical gardens and hiking trails. The majestic Mutarazi Falls, the highest in Zimbabwe, provides thrilling views and adventure activities such as zip-lining. History buffs will be drawn to the ancient rock art in the Nyanga National Park, home to the mystical Nyanga Mountains and the enigmatic ruins of the Nyanga Pit Structures, believed to date back to the Iron Age. The bustling city of Mutare offers a contrast with its vibrant markets, museums, and the serene Murahwa Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city. For those seeking a tranquil escape, the Eastern Highlands' tea plantations and the lush Honde Valley offer serene landscapes perfect for relaxation.

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Explore Manicaland on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top cities, national parks and sights are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Manicaland

Manicaland offers a tantalizing tapestry of culinary delights that cater to every palate. From the bustling streets of Mutare to the serene landscapes of Nyanga, visitors can savor traditional Zimbabwean dishes like sadza and nyama, often accompanied by locally sourced vegetables and tangy relishes. For the more adventurous foodie, fresh bream from Lake Kariba and exotic game meats provide an authentic taste of the region's natural bounty. The influence of Indian and Portuguese communities adds a zesty flair with flavorful curries and peri-peri chicken, while quaint tea houses in the Eastern Highlands serve locally grown, world-renowned teas. Whether dining in rustic roadside huts or elegant restaurants with panoramic views of the lush mountains, each meal in Manicaland is a feast for the senses, enriched by the warm hospitality of its people.

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Best bars in Manicaland

Manicaland's nightlife is a vibrant tapestry that seamlessly blends local culture with modern entertainment. Visitors can expect a diverse array of experiences, from the lively bars in Mutare, where you can enjoy local brews and live music, to the more serene, yet equally enchanting, nightspots in Nyanga, offering stunning views of the Eastern Highlands under a starlit sky. Traditional dance performances often liven up the evenings, providing a unique cultural immersion. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, the quaint pubs and lounges scattered throughout the region offer a cozy atmosphere perfect for unwinding with a drink. As the night deepens, clubs in the larger towns come alive with energetic beats, attracting both locals and tourists to dance the night away. Whether you're looking for rustic charm or contemporary excitement, Manicaland's nightlife has something to offer every traveler.

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Best nightclubs in Manicaland

Manicaland's nightlife is a vibrant tapestry that seamlessly blends local culture with modern entertainment. Visitors can expect a diverse array of experiences, from the lively bars in Mutare, where you can enjoy local brews and live music, to the more serene, yet equally enchanting, nightspots in Nyanga, offering stunning views of the Eastern Highlands under a starlit sky. Traditional dance performances often liven up the evenings, providing a unique cultural immersion. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, the quaint pubs and lounges scattered throughout the region offer a cozy atmosphere perfect for unwinding with a drink. As the night deepens, clubs in the larger towns come alive with energetic beats, attracting both locals and tourists to dance the night away. Whether you're looking for rustic charm or contemporary excitement, Manicaland's nightlife has something to offer every traveler.

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Best shops in Manicaland

Manicaland's shopping scene is a vibrant tapestry that weaves together the traditional and the modern, offering visitors a unique blend of experiences. In the bustling markets of Mutare, the region's capital, expect to find an array of handcrafted artifacts, from intricately carved wooden sculptures to brightly colored woven baskets, each telling a story of Zimbabwe's rich cultural heritage. For the fashion-conscious, boutiques and street vendors showcase a mix of contemporary Zimbabwean fashion and imported styles, ensuring a diverse wardrobe. Additionally, local food markets brim with fresh produce, exotic fruits, and spices, giving you a true taste of the region's culinary delights. Whether you're hunting for a one-of-a-kind souvenir or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, Manicaland's shopping scene promises an adventure at every corner.

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Manicaland essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in Zimbabwe is the Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL). However, the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted, and it is advisable to carry USD in smaller denominations. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Mutare, but it's wise to have enough cash on hand, especially if traveling to more remote locations.
Safety
Manicaland is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Keep your belongings secure in crowded places and be cautious when using ATMs. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists include downtown Mutare and some remote border areas. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 999 for police assistance or 112 for medical emergencies. Major hospitals and clinics are located in Mutare, including Mutare Provincial Hospital. It is essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting rural areas and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing or flashy clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; remove your shoes when entering religious premises. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid eating and drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake and use respectful language. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisines and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality as it is considered impolite.
Local Tips
To experience Manicaland like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Zimbabwean goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and eager to share their culture and history. Don't miss visiting natural attractions like the Vumba Mountains, Nyanga National Park, and the Chimanimani Mountains. For a unique cultural experience, attend local festivals and traditional ceremonies if the opportunity arises.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloMhoro[m-ho-ro]
GoodbyeSara zvakanaka[sa-ra zva-na-ka]
YesEhe[e-he]
NoKwete[kwe-te]
Please/You’re welcomeNdatenda[nda-ten-da]
Thank youNdatenda[nda-ten-da]
Excuse me/SorryNdineurombo[ndine-u-rom-bo]
How are you?Uri sei?[u-ri sei]
Fine. And you?Ndiripo. Iwe?[n-di-ri-po. i-we]
Do you speak English?Unotaura Chirungu here?[u-no-ta-u-ra chi-run-gu he-re]
I don’t understandHandinzwisise[han-din-zwi-si-se]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I’d like to see the menu, pleaseNdinoda kuona menyu, ndapota[n-di-no-da ku-o-na me-nyu, n-da-po-ta]
I don’t eat meatHandidye nyama[han-di-dye n-ya-ma]
Cheers!Kuwashira![ku-wa-shi-ra]
I would like to pay, pleaseNdinoda kubhadhara, ndapota[n-di-no-da ku-bha-dha-ra, n-da-po-ta]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Rubatsiro![ru-ba-tsi-ro]
Go away!Enda![en-da]
Call the Police!Daidza mapurisa![dai-dza ma-pu-ri-sa]
Call a doctor!Daidza chiremba![dai-dza chi-rem-ba]
I’m lostNdakakanganiswa[n-da-ka-kan-gi-nis-wa]
I’m illNdiri kurwara[n-di-ri ku-rwa-ra]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I’d like to buy...Ndinoda kutenga...[n-di-no-da ku-ten-ga]
I’m just lookingNdiri kungotarisa[n-di-ri kung-o-ta-ri-sa]
How much is it?Zvakadini?[zva-ka-di-ni]
That’s too expensiveIzvi zvakawandisa[i-zvi zva-ka-wan-di-sa]
Can you lower the price?Unogona kuderedza mutengo here?[u-no-go-na ku-de-re-dza mu-ten-go he-re]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Ndeipi nguva?[n-dei-pi n-gu-va]
It’s one o'clockNgava imwe[n-ga-va i-mwe]
Half past (10)Kusvitsa (10)[ku-svi-tsa]
MorningMangwanani[man-gwa-na-ni]
AfternoonMasikati[ma-si-ka-ti]
EveningManheru[man-he-ru]
YesterdayNezuro[ne-zu-ro]
TodayNhasi[nha-si]
TomorrowMangwana[man-gwa-na]
1Imwe[i-mwe]
2Piri[pi-ri]
3Tatu[ta-tu]
4China[chi-na]
5Tshanu[tsha-nu]
6Tanhatu[tan-ha-tu]
7Chishanu[chi-sha-nu]
8Chisere[chi-se-re]
9Chitatu[chi-ta-tu]
10Gumi[gu-mi]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Kupi ...?[ku-pi]
What's the address?Chii chinzvimbo?[chi-i chi-n-zi-mbo]
Can you show me (on the map)?Unogona kundiratidza (pamepu)?[u-no-go-na kun-di-ra-ti-dza pa-me-pu]
When's the next (bus)?Rinhi bazi rinotevera?[rin-hi ba-zi ri-no-te-ve-ra]
A ticket (to ....)Tikiti (ku....)[ti-ki-ti]

History of Manicaland

The Ancient Kingdom of Mutapa

The Mutapa Empire, also known as the Mwenemutapa, was a powerful kingdom that existed from the 15th to the 18th century. It was centered in Manicaland and controlled a vast area extending to modern-day Mozambique. The kingdom is renowned for its trade in gold and ivory with Portuguese merchants. The ruins of the capital, Great Zimbabwe, still stand as a testament to this sophisticated civilization.

The Rozvi Empire

Following the decline of the Mutapa Empire, the Rozvi Empire emerged in the late 17th century. The Rozvi, known for their military prowess, were able to fend off Portuguese colonizers and maintain control over the region. Their capital, Danamombe, is located near present-day Manicaland. The Rozvi are celebrated for their stone structures and cattle husbandry.

Colonial Era and the Chimurenga Wars

Manicaland was significantly affected by British colonialism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The First Chimurenga (1896-1897) was an uprising against British rule, led by spiritual leaders like Nehanda and Kaguvi. The Second Chimurenga (1966-1979), also known as the Rhodesian Bush War, was a guerrilla war that ultimately led to Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980. Manicaland was a critical battleground during these conflicts.

The City of Mutare

Founded in 1897 as Fort Umtali, Mutare is the fourth-largest city in Zimbabwe and the capital of Manicaland. It became a significant commercial and administrative center during the colonial period. Today, Mutare is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the nearby Vumba Mountains and the Bvumba Botanical Gardens.

The Chimanimani Mountains

The Chimanimani Mountains, located on the border between Zimbabwe and Mozambique, have been a crucial part of Manicaland’s cultural and natural history. These mountains are not only a haven for biodiversity but also hold spiritual significance for local communities. Ancient rock art found in the area provides insights into the lives of early inhabitants.

Traditional Shona Culture

The Shona people are the predominant ethnic group in Manicaland. Their rich cultural heritage includes traditional music, dance, and art, notably the mbira (thumb piano) and intricate stone carvings. Shona culture places a strong emphasis on community and ancestral worship, with many practices deeply rooted in spirituality.

The Honde Valley

The Honde Valley is a lush, fertile region in Manicaland known for its tea plantations and diverse flora and fauna. The valley is also home to the Manyika people, a subgroup of the Shona, who have a distinct cultural identity. Traditional Manyika crafts, such as basket weaving and pottery, are highly regarded.

The Eastern Highlands

The Eastern Highlands, which run through Manicaland, are characterized by their cool climate, rolling hills, and scenic views. This area has been a popular destination for settlers and tourists alike. The highlands are also rich in history, with numerous archaeological sites that offer glimpses into prehistoric human activities.

Manicaland in Photos

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Neighbouring regions of Manicaland

The closest regions to Manicaland, if you have time for more than one.

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Zimbabwe
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Evendo - Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Manicaland, Zimbabwe

Discover Manicaland with Evendo: A 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and activities.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich set of information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking of hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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More about the Evendo app

Explore the beauty and culture of Manicaland, Zimbabwe with Evendo, your comprehensive and free travel guide. Plan, organize, and discover all the best spots with ease.

  • History of Manicaland and travel essentials
  • Local advice to enhance your visit
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs

As a traveler venturing into the enchanting region of Manicaland, Zimbabwe, Evendo serves as your indispensable companion. From the majestic Bvumba Mountains to the bustling city of Mutare, our app ensures you uncover the most captivating attractions, landmarks, and local experiences. Imagine strolling through the botanical treasures of the Vumba Botanical Gardens or exploring the historical relics at the Mutare Museum. Evendo provides detailed insights, rich images, and local tips for each location, making your journey not just memorable but seamless.

Our app allows you to immerse yourself in Manicaland’s vibrant culture by offering information on the best restaurants, such as the renowned White Horse Inn, where you can savor authentic Zimbabwean cuisine. For nightlife enthusiasts, Evendo highlights top bars and nightclubs that promise unforgettable evenings. Shopping aficionados will appreciate the curated list of local shops and markets, ensuring you find unique souvenirs to take home.

Planning your stay is effortless with Evendo. Easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app. Whether you’re interested in hiking the scenic Nyanga National Park or embarking on a guided tour of the Chilojo Cliffs, our app has you covered. No more endless searches or logistical headaches – with Evendo, everything you need is in one place.

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