Nyanga National Park

Overview

Nyanga National Park is nestled in Zimbabwe's most stunning Eastern Highlands, in the Manicaland Province, near the border of Mozambique. 

The park covers 181 square miles (470 m²) and boasts diverse landscapes, including rugged, dramatic mountain ranges, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, rolling hills, and grassy plains. 

Nyanga is one of the oldest national parks in Zimbabwe, steeped in history. Declared a national park in 1926, its current name, Nyanga, reflects the region's correct vernacular pronunciation. It was first established as Rhodes Inyanga National Park, a bequest from Cecil Rhodes himself. 

By far, Mount Nyangani is the jewel in the crown. It is the heart of the park and the highest peak in Zimbabwe, with a majestic rise of 8,504 feet (2,592 m). It offers exquisite panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and challenging yet rewarding hikes for adventurous spirits. 

It takes roughly one and a half to three hours to reach the summit from the Parks HQ (Nyanga/Rhodes Dam). If hiking is not your thing, there are also several other interesting sights at HQ, from viewing some ancient ruins and stone forts to immersing yourself in history at the Rhodes Museum. 

A history of archaeological remnants found at Nyanga makes this area a winner for history buffs. 

The park is also home to Mutarazi Falls, Zimbabwe's highest waterfall (and Africa's second highest). It boasts an exhilarating 2,500-foot (762-m) drop and is located in the southern part of the national park. 

Most of Nyanga National Park is underlain by granite, with the highest mountains composed of dolerite, sandstone, and harder granite that forms the cliffs and ridges. 

While this park may not be known for megafauna, its diverse habitats certainly make up for it, making it a year-round destination for avid bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.