EXPLORE
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Explore Hiking Trails, Hidden Waterfalls, and Local Heritage
What to Do in Chimanimani:
From Mountain Peaks to Village Culture
Chimanimani offers a diverse range of activities for every type of traveler.
Whether you are looking for high-altitude adventure or a quiet cultural retreat, our lodge serves as your central base for:
Mountain Adventure:
Embark on multi-day treks through the stunning quartzite peaks of the nearby Chimanimani National Park.
Waterfalls & Swimming:
Cool off in the crystal-clear waters of Tessa’s Pool or visit the iconic Bridal Veil Falls, both just a short trip from the lodge.
Local Culture:
Immerse yourself in village life, explore local markets, or join a Sunday church service for a true taste of Zimbabwean hospitality.
Leisure & Sport:
Enjoy a round of Golf at the local course, go birdwatching in the lush montane forests, or take a scenic drive through the Eastern Highlands.
The Art of Relaxing:
Arguably best of all, our relaxing grounds offer the perfect space to simply sit back and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
GUIDED EXPERIENCES
While many of these trips can be enjoyed under your own power, we recommend hiring a local guide for mountain walks and forest trails. A professional guide provides more than just navigation; they offer expert knowledge of the unique flora and fauna, local history, and hidden secrets of the hills that you might otherwise miss.
Chimanimani National Park Mountain Walks
The Chimanimani Classic
Must be booked in advance
3 Day, 2 Night Walking Tour
All inside Chimanimani National Park. Over the three days you will see much of the main park from the Southern lakes, Terrys Cave, The Bundi Plane, the Aerodrome, Binga, Peterhouse Falls, Skeleton Pass, The Mountain Hut and more. You will need to be fit and prepared to carry your own food and tent. Porters can be supplied. We stay overnight in caves or the Mountain Hut and cook your food for you. If you can only do one walk in the Eastern Highlands this is the one.
Pricing
● $XX per person (Minimum 2 people)
The Brown Route
Must be booked in advance
3 Day, 2 Night Walking Tour
So called because it goes around the backside of the mountains to visit some normally off-limit locations on the Mozambican side. Along the way we see The Saddle, Lion Rock, the incredible Martins falls, The Valley of Apostles and back through Skeleton Pass.
Pricing
● $XX per person (Minimum 2 people)
Rural Walks
Rural Deep Dive: Heaven Lodge to Rusitu
Must be booked in advance
Discover a hidden side of Chimanimani. Over three days, you will traverse ancient trails and changing mountain vistas on our premier, fully supported eco-tourism trek. This is an immersive journey through lands shaped by history, designed for those who appreciate the path less traveled.
Coming Soon - We are in the final stages of testing this walk for launch. Bookmark this page and check back soon!
Chaminuka Homestead Walk: Culture & Cuisine
Can be booked at short notice
Explore the foothills of Pork Pie Hill on this immersive 4-5 hour cultural trek. The walk takes you through the village and uphill through a patchwork of small local farms to Nhuka Farm. You’ll enjoy stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the lodge from a new perspective, discover mysterious ancient ruins, and visit a hidden waterfall.
The Highlight: A traditional Zimbabwean lunch of Sadza and Nyama (meat) is included at the homestead.
Difficulty: Moderate. A round trip of about 5 hours; a basic level of fitness will ensure you enjoy the uphill stretches.
Pricing
● $30 per person
● $75 for three
● $90 for four people
Over the Top: The Ridge & Refreshments
Can be booked at short notice
This is the ultimate "local's loop." We climb Greenmount directly behind Heaven Lodge to reach the Ngangu Ridge, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the rugged mountain range and the rural lands below. After taking in the vistas, we descend into Ngangu township to soak up the local atmosphere.
The Reward: End the walk with a cold beer at a local bar before choosing your path home—either a quick taxi or a scenic stroll back through the beautiful 9-hole golf course and into the village.
Duration: 4–5 hours of exploration.
Pricing
● $30 per person
● $75 for three
● $90 for four people
The Corner: A Day in Chikukwa
Can be booked at short notice
Located 22km north along the famous Cashel Scenic Road, "The Corner" is situated in Chikukwa—a remarkable community known for permaculture, tribal pride, and the Chikukwa Cultural Centre. This full-day excursion takes you deep into the Chimanimani National Park to discover ancient Bushman rock paintings and the secluded Muhohwa Falls.
The Experience: Excellent birdwatching and incredible landscapes. We leave at 9:00 AM and return around 5:00 PM. Lunch and refreshments are provided.
Logistics: Best suited for high-clearance 4x4 vehicles (self-drive) or we can arrange a local taxi.
Fitness: Moderate mobility is required for clambering over rocks, but the walks are short and manageable.
Duration: 4–5 hours of exploration.
Pricing
● Your transport, our Guide
● $40 per person
● $105 for three
● $120 for four people
● Our Transport and Guide
● $250 for two people
● $300 for three
● $350 for four people
Village Sights, Local Life
Village Walk
Can be booked at short notice
Explore the heart of Chimanimani at your own pace, or join us for a guided, gentle stroll. We’ll take you through the peaceful arboretum to the bustling local market, then head up into the village to see the local shops, Chimanimani FM, and the Biodiversity Learning Centre—all while enjoying magnificent, front-row views of the spectacular Chimanimani mountains.
Along the way, we can stop for a cold beer or a refreshing rum and coke at the historic Chimanimani Hotel. Your guide will introduce you to the locals, share insights into village life, and point out the rich birdlife along the path.
Want to explore further? Extend your walk a few kilometers to the stunning Bridal Veil Falls. As we always say: Chimanimani always delivers.
A Sunday of Song: Local Church Services
Can be booked at short notice
Experience the vibrant heart of the community through a local worship service. While there is a historic Anglican Church in Chimanimani village, for a truly joyous celebration, we recommend the ZAOGA, FIFA, or AFM churches in the nearby township of Ngangu. These services are famous for their "good praise and worship with nice dances"—a soul-stirring experience of Zimbabwean culture.
The Journey: A pleasant 40-minute walk to Ngangu, or a quick $1 taxi ride.
Good to Know: No fitness required. We recommend a small donation to the church to support their community work.
Birdwatching
The Early Bird Walk: Birdwatching at Heaven Lodge
Can be booked at short notice
Immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems surrounding Chimanimani village on this 8km guided birding trek. Starting in the crisp morning air, we follow winding mountain paths down to the spectacular Bridal Veil Falls. This tour focuses on the unique birds and flora of the valley, offering a high chance of spotting regional specials like the Chirinda Apalis or the Gurney’s Sugarbird. The experience includes a small packed meal and drink to enjoy by the water.
Cool Down: Bring your swimming costume for a dip in the falls!
Fitness: A moderate level of fitness is recommended for the 8km walk.
Optional: Tired legs? A taxi return from Bridal Veil Falls can be arranged
Scenic Drives
The Baobabs & Basins: Shinja Drive & Hot Springs
Experience the rugged soul of the Chimanimani District on this exhilarating full-day 4x4 expedition. This route leaves the lush highlands behind, diving into the sun-drenched lowveld where giant Baobab trees dominate a dramatic, dusty landscape.
The journey eventually leads to the natural Hot Springs (located just south of the Mutare-Birchenough road). Here, you can soak in three natural mineral pools ranging from cool to warm—a therapeutic experience that feels incredible on the skin after a morning of adventure.
Pro Tip: As the onsite facilities are currently very poor, we recommend packing a full picnic and refreshments to enjoy poolside.
Requirements: A rugged 4x4 is essential for this route.
Pricing
● This is a DIY drive. We can provide a vehicle and driver for $250
The Cashel Scenic View: The Highlands’ Most Beautiful Drive
Arguably the most spectacular way to enter or exit Chimanimani, the Cashel Scenic Route is a 3-4 hour journey through a changing world of timber plantations and pristine mountain wilderness.
As you wind through the hills past traditional homesteads, you’ll be treated to unrivaled perspectives of the Chimanimani Mountains. This drive is particularly breathtaking in the late afternoon, when the quartzite rock faces catch the sun, reflecting a brilliant, golden light across the range. It is a photographer’s dream and a must-do for anyone who appreciates untouched natural beauty.
Pricing
● This is a DIY drive. We can provide a vehicle and driver for $250
Need help planning?
Visit our Planning page to explore packages, local guides,
practical travel information, and answers to our most frequently asked questions.