Things To Do
in Masvingo
Masvingo sits in south-central Zimbabwe, roughly 300 km southeast of Harare, serving as a gateway to the country's historic sites and lakes. It is home to the famous Great Zimbabwe ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and provides easy access to Lake Mutirikwi for outdoor escapes. The city blends rural charm with growing tourist facilities, from guesthouses to markets and river views.
Expect hot summers, mild winters, and a pace that favors outdoor exploration and cultural encounters.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Great Zimbabwe Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the rich history of the Shona civilization. As the sun rises, take a guided tour through the impressive stone ruins, learning about their significance and the stories they tell. Don't forget to capture the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from the hilltop.
After lunch at a local eatery, delve deeper into the history of the region at the Great Zimbabwe Museum, which features artifacts and exhibits related to the ancient city. Spend time exploring the museum's collection to better understand the lives of the people who built this impressive settlement. As you walk through the exhibits, engage with local historians to gain more insights into the cultural significance of Great Zimbabwe.
As evening approaches, head to a nearby restaurant to enjoy traditional Zimbabwean cuisine, such as sadza and stew. Experience the vibrant local atmosphere while sampling various dishes and mingling with friendly locals. End your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center, soaking in the ambiance of Masvingo under the stars.
Begin your day with a scenic drive to Lake Mutirikwi, a tranquil spot known for its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife. Enjoy a picnic breakfast by the water's edge while watching the sunrise illuminate the lake's surface. Take a moment to appreciate the serene surroundings and the sound of birds chirping in the trees.
After breakfast, go for a guided boat ride on the lake, where you may spot various bird species and other wildlife. The afternoon can be spent hiking along the shore or exploring the nearby Mutirikwi National Park, where you can encounter elephants, hippos, and diverse flora. As you explore, take photographs of the beautiful scenery and the unique wildlife that call this area home.
Return to Masvingo in the evening and enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can savor delicious local fish dishes. As the sun sets over the lake, enjoy the tranquil ambiance while reflecting on a day filled with natural beauty. Cap off your evening with a leisurely stroll along the lake shore, appreciating the peaceful environment.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $3-10 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic items) | $10-30 |
| ☕Coffee/soft drink at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history with the Great Zimbabwe ruins nearby
- Access to lakes and outdoor activities
- Warm, welcoming people and affordable travel experience
- Compact city with easy day trips from the center
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Infrastructure can be basic in rural areas
- Malaria risk and variable road conditions
- "Mhoro" - Hello
- "Ndatenda" - Thank you
- "Ndapota" - Please
- "Ndinoda sadza" - I would like sadza
- "Zvinonaka here?" - Is this tasty?
Places to Visit in Masvingo
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient stone city with towering walls, courtyards, and photographic silhouettes against the stonework and surrounding hills.
Scenic lakeside views, sunset reflections on the water, and birds to capture from shoreline paths.
Colorful street life, local markets, and everyday scenes offering candid photography opportunities.
Food in Masvingo
Masvingo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple combination of thick maize meal with a rich beef or chicken stew, commonly found in most eateries.
Must-Try!
Leafy greens simmered with a peanut butter sauce, served with sadza.
Small dried fish fried and served with sadza, especially popular near lakeshore areas.
Seasonal protein snack or side dish, usually fried and spiced, often served with sadza.
Traditional non-alcoholic maize porridge drink (mahewu) or locally brewed beer (Chibuku) for a local experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls offering fresh produce, maize, nuts, roasted corn, and street bites.
Casual spots selling grilled meats, fried chips, and pastries alongside cold drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a handshake and eye contact; use polite titles with elders.
Ask for permission before photographing people or private spaces.
Dress modestly in towns; avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas; be respectful in religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Masvingo
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated for better service; for guides and porters, tips of 5–15% are common.
Cash (USD/ZAR/ZWL) remains widely accepted in markets; mobile money (EcoCash) is popular; some places accept bank cards, but carry cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Mar are hot with frequent afternoon storms and high humidity; stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and use sunscreen; watch for mosquitoes.
Apr–May transitional months with milder days; Jun–Aug are cool and dry; pack layers and a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings.
Sep–Oct offers pleasant temperatures; ideal for outdoor activities and photography; occasional showers may occur.
Masvingo at Night
Hiking in Masvingo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes around the hilltop with sweeping views over the ruins and surrounding valleys.
Coastal-like paths along the lake with birdlife and relaxing scenery.
Airports
How to reach Masvingo by plane.
Small domestic airport serving charter and domestic flights; best to arrange connections through Harare.
Harare's international gateway about 300 km away; major hub for international flights and major connections.
Nearby domestic airport near Chiredzi, used for regional flights; longer distance from Masvingo but an option for regional access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority in the region with rich cultural traditions and language.
Residents in Masvingo town centre and surrounding suburbs; mix of traders, professionals, and families.
Visitors to Great Zimbabwe and the lakes bring a small but growing international presence.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and street games are common in towns.
Played by schools and clubs; occasional matches and social leagues in the region.
Rugby union has a following among sports enthusiasts in towns and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Masvingo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist, including muriro greens, maize dishes, and peanut sauces; ask for vegetable stews and salads; confirm ingredients and cross-contamination.