Things To Do
in Mutare
Mutare sits in the eastern highlands of Zimbabwe, near the Mozambique border. It is surrounded by the verdant Bvumba and Eastern Highlands, giving it a cooler, greener climate than much of the country. The city functions as a launching point for adventures in Nyanga, Chimanimani, and the Honde Valley, while retaining a relaxed, market-driven urban vibe.
Visitors will find friendly locals, a mix of colonial heritage and modern amenities, and easy access to nature and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mutare Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region through engaging exhibits. Stroll through the surrounding gardens, taking in the beautiful flora native to Zimbabwe. As you explore, capture stunning photographs of the unique architecture that reflects the diverse influences on the city's development.
After lunch at a local café, head to the nearby Sakubva Market, a vibrant hub where you can experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Mutare. Browse through stalls selling fresh produce, traditional crafts, and handmade jewelry, interacting with friendly vendors as you shop. This is a perfect opportunity to pick up souvenirs and sample authentic Zimbabwean street food.
As the sun sets, unwind at a local restaurant offering traditional Zimbabwean cuisine. Enjoy dishes like sadza and stew while soaking in the lively atmosphere filled with music and laughter. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the city center, where you can appreciate the illuminated buildings and perhaps catch a local performance.
Set off early for a day trip to Nyanga National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. As you drive through scenic countryside, keep an eye out for wildlife and the beautiful mountainous terrain. Arriving at the park, begin your adventure with a guided hike to the breathtaking Nyangombe Falls, where the sound of cascading water creates a serene atmosphere.
After exploring the falls, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the lush greenery of the park. Spend your afternoon hiking the various trails, discovering the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this protected area. Be sure to snap some photos of the stunning views from the viewpoints along the way.
Return to Mutare in the early evening, reflecting on your day surrounded by nature. After freshening up, indulge in dinner at a cozy local restaurant that offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary dishes. Cap off the evening with a stroll through the city, enjoying the pleasant night air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚗Local taxi ride (within town) | $2-5 |
| 🧺Grocery basic basket | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible base for exploring the Eastern Highlands
- Friendly locals and vibrant markets
- Greenscapes and diverse nature nearby
- Relatively affordable compared with larger cities
- Limited nightlife compared to Harare or Bulawayo
- Some services are basic in town; infrastructure can be variable
- Weather can be rainy and humid during the wet season
- "Mhoro" - Hello
- "Ndatenda" - Thank you
- "Ndapota" - Please
- "Hongu" - Yes
- "Kwete" - No
- "Zvakadini?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Mutare
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush forest trails with panoramic views over Mutare and the plains beyond.
Colorful daily life, traders, produce, and fabrics offering vibrant street photography.
Terraced tea and banana plantations with river valleys and cloud-filled mornings.
Historic buildings and sculpture framing attractive photo opportunities.
Food in Mutare
Mutare Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Maize meal porridge served with grilled or stewed meat and accompanying greens.
Must-Try!
A traditional protein source often enjoyed with greens or sadza.
Grilled meat served with relish and sadza or vegetables.
Small dried fish fried and served with sadza or vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh produce, grains, spices, and everyday snacks.
Roasted maize, peanuts, fried dough, and bottled beverages sold by vendors around market areas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a smile and a handshake; use polite language and show respect to elders.
Ask permission before photographing people, particularly children or at religious sites.
Dress modestly in public and remove hats in sacred spaces or formal occasions.
Safety
Tipping in Mutare
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included; for taxis and guides, round up or leave a small extra.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with heavy afternoon showers; lush vegetation, malaria risk; carry rain gear and sunscreen.
Mild and dry conditions; comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploring.
Cool to chilly nights; dry days, clear skies ideal for city walks and stargazing.
Warmer days with fresh greenery; occasional rain in late spring; great for hiking.
Mutare at Night
Hiking in Mutare
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Proximate rugged peaks and scenic trails offering challenging routes and spectacular viewpoints.
Gentle to moderate alpine-style hikes with forest trails, viewpoints, and tea plantations.
Airports
How to reach Mutare by plane.
Small domestic airport serving regional flights; convenient for quick getaways to Harare and other nearby towns.
Zimbabwe's main international gateway, about a short flight or longer drive from Mutare; connects to regional and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Shona-speaking with minority groups; a mix of rural and urban residents with strong ties to the Eastern Highlands communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and pickup games are part of city life.
Played at school and club levels, with local events during the season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mutare.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Zimbabwean vegetables, beans, cornmeal dishes, and salads can provide filling vegetarian options; ask for no meat and verify broth and sauces.