Last updated October 2026

Drive times are rounded estimates for good conditions. Roadworks, roadblocks, wildlife and weather can add hours, so avoid driving after dark and check your route before you set off.

Day 1: Harare

Visit the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, which opened in 1957 and has been central to the growth of contemporary art in the country, and the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences in the Civic Centre. See the Harare guide for places to stay and eat.

Day 2: Domboshava and Chiremba

Climb Domboshava, a granite hill with rock paintings about 30 km north of the city, in the morning. In the afternoon, see the Chiremba Balancing Rocks in Epworth, about 13 km south-east. National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe says custodians can give guided tours at both. The Harare planning guide has safety tips for the city.

Day 3: Drive to Nyanga

Drive: Harare to Nyanga, about 270 km, around 4 hours.

Zimbabwe Parks gives the route: take the A3 towards Mutare, turn left at Rusape onto the A14 towards Juliasdale, and continue to the park. Fill up with fuel in Rusape. See the Eastern Highlands guide.

Day 4: Nyanga National Park

Hike Mount Nyangani, the country's highest point at 2,592 m, with a guide, as mist can make the path hard to follow. Or visit Mutarazi Falls, the highest waterfall in Zimbabwe, and fish for trout in the park's lakes.

Day 5: Mutare and the Vumba

Drive: Nyanga to Mutare, about 107 km on the A15, around 1½ to 2 hours.

Visit the Mutare Museum, then head up into the Bvumba mountains, known for misty forest, gardens and quiet country lodges.

Day 6: Chimanimani

Drive: Mutare to Chimanimani, about 150 km, around 2½ hours.

Zimbabwe Parks describes Chimanimani National Park as one of the country's finest mountain wildernesses. It highly recommends hiking with a guide, as most routes are arduous. Visit the Bridal Veil Falls on an easier day.

Day 7: Back to Harare

Drive: Chimanimani to Harare, about 410 km via Mutare, around 6 to 7 hours.

It is a long day, so start early, or break the journey with a night in Mutare. The Eastern Highlands planning guide covers weather, equipment and trail safety.

Mountain roads are narrow and winding, and mist can roll in quickly. Pack warm, waterproof layers: the highlands are much cooler and wetter than the rest of the country.

The guides for this route

• Harare · Plan your visit
• Eastern Highlands · Plan your visit