Mutare, the fourth-largest city in Zimbabwe, is nestled in the Eastern Highlands, close to the border with Mozambique. Known for its scenic beauty, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Mutare offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors. The city serves as a gateway to some of Zimbabwe’s most stunning natural sites, including mountains, botanical gardens, and ancient ruins. Here are some of the best places to visit in Mutare:
Best Places to Visit
1. Vumba Mountains (Bvumba Mountains)
The Vumba Mountains, also known as the Bvumba Mountains, are a picturesque mountain range located southeast of Mutare. The area is known for its lush forests, stunning views, and cool climate. The Vumba Botanical Gardens and Reserve, with its diverse plant species and walking trails, is a popular spot for nature lovers. The mountains also offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and Mozambique.
- Key Attractions: Lush forests, botanical gardens, panoramic views.
- Activities: Hiking, bird watching, picnicking.
- Location: Southeast of Mutare.
2. Mutare Museum
The Mutare Museum is one of Zimbabwe’s oldest and most comprehensive museums. It showcases a wide range of exhibits, including ethnographic artifacts, vintage cars, and natural history displays. The museum provides insight into the cultural and historical heritage of the region and is a great place to learn about the local Shona culture.
- Key Attractions: Ethnographic artifacts, vintage car collection.
- Activities: Museum tours, educational exploration.
- Location: Central Mutare.
3. Christmas Pass
Christmas Pass is a scenic mountain pass that offers stunning views of Mutare and the surrounding area. The pass, named by early settlers who arrived in the region around Christmas time, provides a beautiful vantage point for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The winding road and lush vegetation make it a picturesque drive.
- Key Attractions: Panoramic views, scenic drive.
- Activities: Photography, sightseeing.
- Location: Near Mutare.
4. The Leopard Rock Hotel
The Leopard Rock Hotel is a historic luxury hotel located in the Vumba Mountains. Known for its colonial charm and beautiful surroundings, the hotel offers a range of activities, including golf, horseback riding, and nature walks. The Leopard Rock Golf Course, one of Africa’s most scenic golf courses, provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Key Attractions: Historic hotel, scenic golf course.
- Activities: Golf, horseback riding, dining.
- Location: Vumba Mountains.
5. Chilojo Cliffs
The Chilojo Cliffs, located within Gonarezhou National Park, are a stunning natural formation known for their vibrant red and orange colors. The cliffs rise majestically above the Runde River, providing a dramatic backdrop for the park’s diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy game drives, hiking, and photography in this remote and beautiful part of Zimbabwe.
- Key Attractions: Scenic cliffs, wildlife.
- Activities: Game drives, hiking, photography.
- Location: Gonarezhou National Park (near Mutare).
6. Murambi Ruins
The Murambi Ruins, also known as the Mutare Ruins, are ancient stone structures that date back to the Great Zimbabwe period. The site includes the remains of stone walls and enclosures, providing a glimpse into the region’s early history. The ruins are an important archaeological site and offer a fascinating look at the local Shona culture and architecture.
- Key Attractions: Ancient stone ruins, historical significance.
- Activities: Archaeological exploration, historical learning.
- Location: Near Mutare.
7. Sakubva Market
Sakubva Market is one of the largest and busiest markets in Mutare. The market is a vibrant hub of activity, offering a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, traditional crafts, clothing, and household items. It’s a great place to experience the local culture, interact with the friendly vendors, and purchase souvenirs.
- Key Attractions: Local market, traditional crafts.
- Activities: Shopping, cultural exploration.
- Location: Central Mutare.
8. Cecil Kop Nature Reserve
Cecil Kop Nature Reserve is a small but beautiful reserve located near Mutare. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, antelopes, and a rich birdlife. The area offers scenic walking trails, picnic spots, and panoramic views of the surrounding hills. It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers and bird watchers.
- Key Attractions: Wildlife, scenic views.
- Activities: Walking trails, bird watching, picnicking.
- Location: Near Mutare.
9. The Eastern Highlands Tea Estates
The Eastern Highlands Tea Estates are located in the scenic highlands near Mutare. The estates offer guided tours of the tea plantations, where visitors can learn about the tea production process, from cultivation to processing. The lush green fields and cool climate provide a refreshing escape, and visitors can also sample some of the locally grown tea.
- Key Attractions: Tea plantations, scenic landscapes.
- Activities: Guided tours, tea tasting.
- Location: Near Mutare.
10. Hot Springs
The Hot Springs, located near the town of Nyanyadzi, are a natural geothermal feature popular for their therapeutic properties. The springs are believed to have healing qualities due to their mineral-rich waters. Visitors can relax in the warm pools and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Key Attractions: Natural hot springs, therapeutic waters.
- Activities: Relaxation, soaking in hot springs.
- Location: Near Nyanyadzi, close to Mutare.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Distance from City Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vumba Mountains | Scenic mountain range with lush forests | Botanical gardens, panoramic views | Southeast of Mutare |
| Mutare Museum | Comprehensive museum with cultural and historical exhibits | Ethnographic artifacts, vintage cars | Central Mutare |
| Christmas Pass | Scenic mountain pass offering panoramic views | Scenic drive, photography | Near Mutare |
| The Leopard Rock Hotel | Historic luxury hotel with colonial charm | Scenic golf course, dining | Vumba Mountains |
| Chilojo Cliffs | Vibrant red and orange cliffs in Gonarezhou National Park | Scenic cliffs, wildlife | Gonarezhou National Park |
| Murambi Ruins | Ancient stone ruins from the Great Zimbabwe period | Historical ruins, archaeological site | Near Mutare |
| Sakubva Market | Bustling local market offering a variety of goods | Local market, traditional crafts | Central Mutare |
| Cecil Kop Nature Reserve | Small nature reserve with diverse wildlife | Wildlife, scenic views | Near Mutare |
| Eastern Highlands Tea Estates | Tea plantations offering guided tours | Tea plantations, tea tasting | Near Mutare |
| Hot Springs | Natural geothermal hot springs with therapeutic properties | Therapeutic waters, relaxation | Near Nyanyadzi |
How to Reach Mutare
By Road
Mutare is accessible by road from major cities in Zimbabwe, including Harare and Bulawayo. The city is well-connected by highways, and buses and private vehicles are common modes of transportation. The drive from Harare to Mutare takes approximately 3 to 4 hours.
By Rail
Mutare is connected by rail to other major cities in Zimbabwe, including Harare. The Mutare Railway Station offers train services, providing a scenic and comfortable journey through the Eastern Highlands.
By Air
The nearest airport to Mutare is Mutare Airport, which serves domestic flights. The airport is located about 10 km from the city center. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Harare International Airport and drive to Mutare.
Best Time to Visit Mutare
The best time to visit Mutare is during the dry season, from May to October. The weather during this period is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the natural attractions. The rainy season, from November to April, brings lush greenery but can make some areas challenging to access.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Mutare offers a variety of traditional Zimbabwean dishes, including sadza (maize porridge), nyama (meat), and local vegetables. The city also has restaurants offering international cuisine. Be sure to try fresh trout, a specialty in the Eastern Highlands.
- Cultural Insights: Mutare is home to the Shona people, who have a rich cultural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting traditional villages and interacting with locals.
- Safety Tips: Mutare is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to take standard precautions. Keep your belongings secure, avoid walking alone at night, and be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas. Always follow local guidelines and respect wildlife.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Vumba Mountains, exploring the botanical gardens and enjoying the panoramic views. Have breakfast at a local café.
- Afternoon: Visit the Mutare Museum to learn about the region’s cultural and historical heritage. Then, take a scenic drive through Christmas Pass and capture stunning photographs.
- Evening: Conclude your day with a visit to Sakubva Market, where you can shop for local crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy a traditional Zimbabwean meal at a local restaurant.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with a hike to the Chilojo Cliffs in Gonarezhou National Park and enjoy the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, visit the Murambi Ruins to explore the ancient stone structures. Spend the evening at the Leopard Rock Hotel, enjoying a gourmet dinner and relaxing in the beautiful surroundings.
- Day 2: Start with a visit to the Eastern Highlands Tea Estates for a guided tour and tea tasting. Then, explore the Cecil Kop Nature Reserve and take a leisurely walk through the reserve. End your trip with a relaxing visit to the Hot Springs, soaking in the therapeutic waters.
Mutare offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re exploring the lush landscapes of the Vumba Mountains, discovering the region’s history, or relaxing in the hot springs, Mutare promises an unforgettable and rejuvenating experience.
