Eastern Highlands
This is the highest region in the country, extending over 300 kilometres from north to south and forming a natural border with neighbouring Mozambique. This region has been described as the “Scottish Highlands of Africa" and is covered in pine trees. The Eastern Highlands vary from the gently rolling countryside and steep scarps of Nyanga in the north to the fierce granite spikes of the Chimanimani Mountains in the south. Mount Nyangani has the highest peak in the country at 2,592 metres above sea level. The unwary are said to become invisible on this mountain and disappear forever on its mist-shrouded slopes.
The Vumba Mountains or “Mountains of Mist” are positioned centrally in a region of high rainfall, which has created areas of montane and cloud forest along with a unique flora. Within the mountains, the Vumba Botanical Gardens contain spectacular terraces crammed with trees, shrubs and flowers from all over the world. The gardens are of special interest to birders.
At the southern end of the mountain chain are the fairytale peaks of Chimanimani. Fifty kilometres long, they rise to a height of 2,440 metres. The jagged rocks are punctuated by crystalline streams and waterfalls including the beautiful Bridal Veil Falls, the second highest falls in Africa. Chimanimani is also home to an eland sanctuary, the largest antelope in southern Africa. The mountains contain rare plant species of special interest to botanists and have become popular with experienced walkers and climbers.
At the far end of the Eastern Highlands you will encounter the Chirinda Forest Reserve. Covering 2,345 acres of primeval subtropical forest, the Reserve contains over 100 species of trees including the immense red mahogany, one specimen of which is 66 metres high with a trunk 15 metres in circumference.
The beautiful scenery of the Eastern Highlands is breathtaking and the main attraction of the region is great hiking and fabulous scenery unlike any other place in Africa. The Eastern Highlands are also a popular destination for golfing, fishing, horseback riding and birdwatching.
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Chizarira National Park