Nyanga is a laid-back town set at the foot of Zimbabwe’s tallest mountain, with hiking, fishing and white-water rafting just some of the activities on offer. The town is also a gateway to Nyanga National Park, a wildlife-rich sanctuary nestled in the Eastern Highlands.

Things to do

Safaris in Nyanga National Park immerse visitors in the wild and rugged natural beauty of Zimbabwe. The 4,700-square-kilometre park features diverse landscapes, including jungle-covered mountains, lush pine forests and sun-drenched savannahs and is also home to one of the largest leopard populations in Zimbabwe. Keep your eyes peeled for antelope and zebras grazing in the grasslands.

A short trail takes you across an escarpment to magnificent Mtarazi Falls. At 762 metres tall, it’s one of the highest waterfalls in Africa. You can peer over the edge to see the falls thundering into the Pungwe River or join white-water rafting trips deep into the valley for adrenaline-pumping action.

The exhilarating SkyWalk suspension bridges span across the Honde Valley and command sweeping views over the falls. Thrill-seekers can opt for the heart-racing zipline. Trekking to the summit of Mount Nyanga can take up to three hours and rewards hikers with panoramic views.

Nyanga is packed with lively cafes and restaurants where you can refuel after a day of adventure. Local favourites include “dovi” peanut stew, “sadza” maize flour porridge and “nhedzi” wild mushroom soup. Wash down your meal with an ice-cold bottle of Zambezi.

Getting around

Nyanga is compact and easy to get around on foot while taxis are a fast and comfortable way to get from A to B. Hiring a private driver is also an option, and safaris in Nyanga National Park can be organised by local tour operators. Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare is a 3.5-hour drive away.