Eastern Highlands (Nyanga, Chimanimani)

The Eastern Highlands presents a dramatic contrast to the rest of Zimbabwe, offering a cool, damp climate and rolling green landscapes that feel more like the Scottish Highlands than tropical Africa. For families, this region serves as a perfect active retreat. The temperature here is significantly lower than the lowveld, making it comfortable for hiking, horse riding, and exploring the outdoors without the intensity of the midday sun.

Nyanga National Park is the primary hub for family activities. A major highlight is Mount Nyangani, Zimbabwe’s highest peak. The hike is accessible for older children and active parents, taking about 1.5 to 3 hours to reach the summit, where panoramic views stretch into Mozambique. For a more relaxed water experience, the Nyangombe Falls features natural rock slides and shallow pools where kids can slide down the smooth granite into the water—a natural water park that is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Adventure-seeking families should visit the Mutarazi Falls SkyWalk and Skyline. Here, you can walk across suspension bridges suspended high above the Honde Valley or take a zip line that offers breathtaking perspectives of one of Africa’s highest waterfalls. It is a thrilling but safe activity managed by professional guides. In the Vumba mountains further south, the Vumba Botanical Gardens provide a magical setting for picnics, with samango monkeys often visible in the trees. The region is also famous for its trout fishing; many lodges offer equipment hire and lessons, allowing children to catch their own dinner in the clear mountain dams.

Accommodation ranges from cozy stone cottages with fireplaces—essential for the chilly evenings—to family-friendly hotels like the historic Troutbeck Resort, where log fires roar and the staff can arrange pony treks. When packing, families must bring warm clothing, rain jackets, and sturdy walking shoes, as the weather can change rapidly from bright sunshine to thick mist.