How to Reach Eastern Highlands?

The Eastern Highlands, a captivating region located in the eastern part of Zimbabwe, are often considered the country’s best-kept secret. This hidden gem is a sanctuary of natural beauty, featuring lush landscapes, dramatic mountain ranges, and pristine forests. Reaching the Eastern Highlands can be an adventure in itself, given its remote location and diverse terrain. In this comprehensive guide, we will unveil the secrets of how to reach this picturesque destination, ensuring your journey to the Eastern Highlands is as enchanting as the place itself.

1. The Allure of Eastern Highlands

Eastern Highlands: Zimbabwe’s Hidden Paradise

Before we embark on the journey to the Eastern Highlands, it’s essential to grasp why this region is so alluring. The Eastern Highlands are renowned for their stunning landscapes, including the Nyanga and Chimanimani mountain ranges, verdant tea estates, and breathtaking waterfalls. This is a place where nature thrives, where hiking trails lead to panoramic vistas, and where the air is filled with the scent of pine and eucalyptus.

As we delve into how to reach the Eastern Highlands, you’ll discover that the journey itself is a significant part of the experience, offering glimpses of rural life, local traditions, and the natural wonders of Zimbabwe.

2. By Air: Flying to Nearby Airports

Harare: The Gateway to Eastern Highlands

The most common way to access the Eastern Highlands is by flying to Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital, and then taking a domestic flight to nearby airports.

Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (Harare):

Most international travelers arrive at Harare’s international airport. From here, you can book a domestic flight to Mutare or the nearby city of Mutare, depending on your Eastern Highlands destination.

Mutare Airport:

Mutare has a small airport that serves as a gateway to the Eastern Highlands. It’s an ideal starting point for those heading to the Vumba Mountains or the Nyanga National Park.

3. By Road: Scenic Drives and Mountainous Roads

Driving to Eastern Highlands: An Immersive Journey

Driving to the Eastern Highlands offers an immersive experience, allowing you to savor the countryside and interact with local communities:

From Harare:

If you arrive in Harare, you can drive eastward to reach the Eastern Highlands. The journey takes you through picturesque landscapes, including the Marondera region, where you can stop at local markets and farms.

From Mutare:

If you opt for a domestic flight to Mutare, you’ll find yourself already in the Eastern Highlands. From Mutare, you can explore nearby attractions such as the Vumba Mountains or proceed to other destinations like Nyanga and Chimanimani.

4. By Bus: Comfortable Intercity Travel

Bus Journeys Through Highland Routes

Zimbabwe boasts a well-connected intercity bus network that links major cities and towns, including those in the Eastern Highlands:

From Harare:

Buses depart from Harare to Mutare and other Eastern Highlands destinations regularly. These comfortable buses offer a convenient and scenic way to reach the region.

From Mutare:

If you choose to fly to Mutare, you can also find buses that connect Mutare to various Eastern Highlands locations. This is a great option for exploring the region further.

5. By Guided Tour: Expert-Led Expeditions

Guided Tours to Eastern Highlands

For those seeking a guided and immersive experience, guided tours to the Eastern Highlands are available:

Tour Operators:

Numerous tour operators offer guided excursions to the Eastern Highlands. These tours often include transportation, accommodations, guides, and visits to key attractions, making for a seamless adventure.

Local Guides:

You can also hire local guides in Mutare or nearby towns. These guides are well-acquainted with the Eastern Highlands’ trails, culture, and natural history, providing a deeper understanding of the region.

6. Conclusion: Embark on the Adventure

Beginning Your Journey to the Eastern Highlands

As you prepare to reach the Eastern Highlands, remember that the journey itself is an integral part of the experience. Whether you choose to fly, drive, take a bus, or join a guided tour, the path to the Eastern Highlands is brimming with cultural encounters, breathtaking vistas, and opportunities for exploration.

Once you arrive, the serene beauty of the mountains, the vibrant flora and fauna, and the warmth of the local communities will make your journey more than worthwhile. The Eastern Highlands offer an adventure like no other, where the natural world takes center stage and where Zimbabwe’s charm unfolds in all its splendor. So, pack your bags, plan your route, and embark on the journey to the Eastern Highlands – where nature’s wonders await your discovery.