Eastern Highlands

The Eastern Highlands is a mountainous region in eastern Zimbabwe.

• -20.18333332.8666671 Chimanimani
• -18.97277832.6694442 Mutare
• -20.232.623 Chipinge
• -18.53666732.1247224 Rusape

• -19.132.7833331 Bvumba Mountains — Bunga Forest Botanical Reserve and nearby Bvumba Botanical Garden
• -19.7532.8833332 Chimanimani National Park
• -18.21666732.753 Nyanga National Park — contains the highest land in Zimbabwe, with green hills and perennial rivers, including Mtarazi Falls
• -18.76638932.4855564 Osborne Dam — Osborne Dam Recreational Park

Eastern Highlands stretching along much of the border with Mozambique. It is known for its mountains, forests, waterfalls, valleys, tea estates and relatively cool climate. Major destinations include Mutare, Nyanga, Chimanimani and Vumba.

The landscape differs considerably from much of the rest of Zimbabwe. Higher rainfall and cooler temperatures support dense vegetation, forests and agricultural activities, including tea and coffee production in some areas. The Eastern Highlands are divided into several scenic areas, including the Nyanga Mountains in the north, the Bvumba Mountains near Mutare and the Chimanimani Mountains in the south. The region is one of Zimbabwe's main destinations for hiking, nature tourism, birdwatching and outdoor activities.

The Eastern Highlands have long been home to local communities and were historically important for agriculture and trade. The mountainous terrain and forests also provided natural resources for settlements in the region. During the colonial period, towns such as Mutare developed as important administrative and commercial centres. European settlers established farms, forestry plantations and tea estates in parts of the highlands. The area's scenic landscape later contributed to the development of tourism. National parks and protected areas were established to conserve important mountain, forest and wildlife environments.

The Eastern Highlands contain some of Zimbabwe's most dramatic scenery. The landscape includes mountain peaks, rolling hills, cliffs, valleys, forests, rivers and waterfalls. The region rises sharply above the surrounding plateau and contains several of the country's highest areas. Mount Nyangani, in the northern part of the Eastern Highlands, is the highest mountain in Zimbabwe. The Chimanimani Mountains in the south are known for rugged peaks, rocky landscapes and extensive hiking opportunities. The Bvumba Mountains near Mutare are characterised by forested hills, scenic viewpoints and gardens.

The higher rainfall and varied altitudes of the Eastern Highlands support a wide variety of plant and animal life. Montane forests contain indigenous trees, ferns, orchids and other moisture-loving plants. Grasslands and open mountain areas support different species adapted to higher elevations. The region is also important for birdwatching. Forests, rivers and mountain habitats support numerous bird species, including several that are uncommon in other parts of Zimbabwe.

The Eastern Highlands generally have a cooler and wetter climate than much of Zimbabwe. Summer is the main rainy season, usually bringing warm temperatures, frequent rainfall and lush green landscapes. Winter is generally drier and cooler, particularly at higher elevations.

• Mashonaland — The large northern region containing Harare and many of Zimbabwe's major destinations.
• Masvingo — Gateway to the historic Great Zimbabwe ruins.
• Mozambique — The Eastern Highlands run along the border, with authorised border crossings providing access to the neighbouring country.
• Manicaland — Explore other towns and rural areas in eastern Zimbabwe.