Things To Do
in Redcliff
Redcliff is an industrial town in Zimbabwe’s Midlands Province, neighboring Kwekwe and built around a historic steelworks presence. It sits amid rolling granite hills and a semi-arid landscape, giving the area a rugged, resilient character. The town blends mining heritage with a developing local culture, reflected in markets, crafts, and everyday life.
As a gateway to central Zimbabwe’s nature and culture, Redcliff offers authentic experiences beyond the usual tourist trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Redcliff and experience the warm welcome of the local community. Check into your accommodation as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere around you. Get familiar with your surroundings by taking a leisurely walk through the nearby streets.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local eatery, sampling traditional Zimbabwean dishes. Spend the afternoon exploring the town's rich history by visiting local shops and markets. Engage with friendly locals and purchase unique handcrafted souvenirs.
As the sun sets, discover one of the local bars or restaurants that offer live music. Relish a meal under the starry sky while listening to enchanting melodies. Reflect on the day and plan your adventures for tomorrow.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby Gwaai Conservation Area, where you can witness stunning landscapes. Look out for local wildlife as you hike through the trails. Capture the beauty of the scenery with your camera.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, participate in a guided tour to learn about conservation efforts in the area. Take part in activities like bird watching or tracking local animal footprints.
Return to Redcliff for a relaxed evening at your accommodation. Experience the local cuisine with a communal dinner that includes stories from fellow travelers. Wind down by enjoying a quiet night under the African stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🥪Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🚎Local transport (minibus/taxi) for a day | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming locals with a strong sense of community
- Access to authentic Midlands culture and affordable travel
- Limited tourist infrastructure and occasional service variability
- Healthcare facilities and emergency services may be more basic than urban centers
- "Mhoro" - Hello
- "Mhoroi" - Hello (formal)
- "Uri sei?" - How are you?
- "Ndatenda" - Thank you
- "Ndapota" - Please
- "Pamusoroi" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Unotaura Chirungu here?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ehe" - Yes
- "Kwete" - No
- "Ndineurombo" - I am sorry
Places to Visit in Redcliff
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated granite outcrops overlooking Redcliff offer sweeping light during sunrise and a dramatic silhouette of the town.
A vantage point above the town provides a mix of industrial silhouettes and rural landscapes—great for wide-angle cityscapes.
Golden hour reflections on the river with distant hills create tranquil, nature-rich compositions.
Food in Redcliff
Redcliff Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cornmeal porridge served with grilled meat and often a side of leafy greens; a true Zimbabwean staple found in most local eateries.
Must-Try!
Small dried fish sautéed with tomatoes and onions, served with sadza; a flavorful and iconic Midlands dish.
A traditional mix of boiled maize and beans, sometimes with peanuts or vegetables, enjoyed as a hearty vegetarian option.
Fermented maize drink that’s refreshing and commonly enjoyed with meals or as a standalone snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market hub where fresh produce, snacks, and prepared street foods are sold daily; great for tasting regional flavors and meeting residents.
Temporary stalls and small eateries offering fried buns, grilled meats, roasted maize, and other quick bites popular with locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Exchange a friendly greeting when meeting someone. Use formal greetings with elders and show respect in conversation.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces. A nod or brief consent goes a long way.
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially in rural areas. Avoid loud behavior and public displays of anger.
Safety
Tipping in Redcliff
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and for hotel services, a tip of about 5-10% is customary if service is satisfactory. Casual service charges are not universal; round up where appropriate.
Cash in USD/ZAR locally common; mobile money (e.g., EcoCash) widely used for small payments; some establishments accept cards, especially in larger towns—but carry cash as a backup.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with frequent short, intense rain showers and occasional thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, use sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Warm days with cooler evenings; humidity decreases. A pleasant time for walking and outdoor photography; plants begin to dry out in late autumn.
Cool to mild days with chilly nights. Generally dry; clear skies provide excellent visibility for stargazing and long-exposure photography.
Warming temperatures and sporadic showers begin; green landscapes return and markets fill with fresh produce and flowers.
Redcliff at Night
Hiking in Redcliff
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible routes across granite formations offering panoramic views and photo opportunities.
Early-morning hikes with city views and surrounding countryside, suitable for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Redcliff by plane.
Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport; major international gateway with flight connections across Africa and beyond. Ground transfer to Midlands towns is possible by road or rail.
Small regional airport near Redcliff with limited flights; serves as a domestic access point for the Midlands region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest linguistic group in the area, with rich cultural traditions and community networks.
Diverse residents in and around Redcliff and Kwekwe, contributing to a mix of languages and cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across towns in Zimbabwe, with local clubs and casual games common on weekends.
Played at schools and community grounds; matches provide social gatherings during the dry season.
Occasional events and local clubs; more common in larger towns but can be found in gathered community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Redcliff.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on staples like mutakura, leafy greens, maize dishes, and beans. Request vegetable-based stews or salads, and ask for cooking oil and spices that suit your preferences.