Nyanga National Park is situated in one of the most scenic areas of Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands. Rolling green hills and perennial rivers transverse the 47 000 hectare Park. Altitudes between 1 800 and 2 593 meters provide cool weather and fresh mountain air, perfect for rest and relaxation.
With its stunning mountainous views, numerous waterfalls, varied activities and unique flora and fauna, Nyanga National Park can provide the visitor with an unforgettable holiday experience. The park is located about 268 km from Harare along a well tarred highway.
Wildlife
The mountainous terrain is home to a variety of animals including the mysterious waterbuck, wildebeest, kudu, zebra, impala, sables, eland to mention but a few .The sparkling fresh water rivers are an envelope of fresh water fish such as the Nyanga trout which is a delicacy to many visitors.
Best time to go
Cool temperatures are usual in Nyanga with summer temperature around 26 degrees celcius and winter cold temperatures of -3 degrees celcius .These are complimented by a wet summer.
Accommodation
Rhodes Nyanga hotel has been operating since early 1900s and it consists of 24 rooms, bar, restaurant and conference facilities. Historically the hotel has the Rhodes-Nyanga museum with some of the furniture Cecil John Rhodes owned.
There are three rest camps namely Rhodes, Udu and Mare. These Rest camps offer the visitor spacious thatched self catering two and one bed roomed lodges with a fully equipped kitchen. There are exciting camping and caravan sites which are well sheltered by acacia trees were cooking on wood fires draws the visitor to ancient memories of the history of mankind .
Other Attractions
Mount Nyangani – Zimbabwe’s highest point at 2 593 metres offers a challenging climb and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Nyangombe Falls – a beautiful series of cascading waterfalls located on the western edge of the Park, a 15 minute walk from the carpark.
Mutarazi Falls – Mutarazi Falls is the highest waterfall in Zimbabwe and the second highest on the Continent. Visitors may leave their vehicles at the carpark and take a short hike to the edge of the escarpment for spectacular views of the waterfalls and the Honde Valley, some 800 metres below.
Pungwe Gorge & Falls – view the Pungwe Falls from the scenic Pungwe viewpoint or drive through the Pungwe Drift for a closer view of the river and lush forest areas around.
Nyangwe & Chawomera Forts – massive stone work with lintelled entrances characterize these fine examples of Nyanga ruins built some 400 years ago. Pit structures are also located within the Park.
Trout Hatchery – the trout hatchery near Purdon Dam provides an up-close view of the source of game fish stocked in many of the Park’s rivers and dams.
Nyamuziwa Falls – located just off the circular drive to Mt. Nyangani, Nyamuziwa Falls is a beautiful cascade waterfall with open highland scenery.
Rhodes Museum – the Rhodes Museum is found at the Rhodes Hotel
Activities
Fly fishing – the finest fly fishing in Zimbabwe can be found in many of the Park’s well stocked rivers and lakes including Mare, Udu, Rhodes, Gulliver and Purdon Dams. Bream fishing is also available at Udu Dam.
Boating – another favorite activity – rowing boats can be hired at each dam
Swimming – visitors can swim at Nyangombe pool where the clear, crisp Nyangombe River spills over natural rock slides. Visitors can also relax on the sandy beaches.
Hiking trails, birding & walks – numerous trails and paths provide lovely walks through both the forest areas and open highlands, many leading to beautiful waterfalls and scenic vistas.
Game viewing –This activity is open to the public all year round. Gates are open for game viewing daily from 0600hrs until 1800hrs. All clients are only allowed to enter the park when driving. Walking and cycling are strictly prohibited unless with express authority and only in the company of a designated park officer. Clients are allowed to drive around the park on their own using designated roads only.
The main and most sought out activity at the park; fishing is conducted all year round. There are 5 fishing and picnic sites in the park.
Recreational activities include yachting, boating, rowing, angling and canoeing.
 Activities
The park is just about 10 minutes drives from the Nyanga town were banks, hospitals, supermarkets, pharmacies, and other social facilities are found.
From Harare- take the Harare Mutare Road for 170 km to Rusape and turn left. From Rusape, follow the Nyanga road for 90 km and turn right at the main park entrance. From Mutare- take Harare- Mutare road for 11 km and turn right at Juliasdale road. Follow this road for 85 km to the end and turn right towards Nyanga village and then right at the main park entrance.
