Eastern Highlands Mountains

Address: Eastern Highlands, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe

Hours: Open year-round (access depends on local conditions and park regulations)

The Eastern Highlands are a mountain chain running along Zimbabwe’s eastern border with Mozambique in Manicaland Province, characterized by ranges such as Nyanga and Chimanimani and by Zimbabwe’s highest point, Mount Nyangani at 2,592 metres. The region forms a distinct montane zone with higher rainfall and cooler temperatures than the adjacent plains.

Visitors are drawn to upland forests, waterfalls, escarpments and established walking routes; the area contains several protected parks and reserves that conserve montane flora and fauna. The landscapes include steep granite ridges, rounded peaks and river valleys that drop toward the lowland Rift and coastal plains across the border.

Geographically the highlands run roughly north-south along Zimbabwe’s eastern margin, with the city of Mutare as the nearest major urban centre and numerous small towns and villages providing access to park gates and trailheads.

• Climate and ecology: Montane climatic conditions produce higher rainfall than surrounding lowlands, supporting montane forest, grassland and endemic species.
• Protected areas: The highlands include several protected areas and national parks that offer hiking, waterfalls and flower-rich upland grasslands.

What to See#

• Mount Nyangani: Mount Nyangani is the highest point in Zimbabwe at 2,592 metres and provides established trails and viewpoints used by hikers and naturalists.
• Chimanimani range: Chimanimani massif forms rugged peaks and escarpments on the border with Mozambique, containing steep trails and granite towers popular with mountaineers.

Access from Mutare (regional centre) by road; specific ranges such as Nyanga and Chimanimani are reached via regional roads and small towns. Local guides and 4x4 vehicles are recommended for remoter areas.

• For hiking in Nyanga and Chimanimani, hire local guides - trails can be poorly marked and weather changes quickly in the highlands.
• Bring insect protection for lower-elevation woodlands and sun protection for exposed ridgelines.
• Plan travel in the dry months to avoid flooded tracks and impassable dirt roads.