Things To Do
in Ruwa
Ruwa is a town located in Mashonaland East province in Zimbabwe. It is known for its peaceful and scenic surroundings, with lush greenery and beautiful landscapes. Ruwa is home to a mix of residential areas, schools, and small businesses.
The town offers a laid-back lifestyle and a close-knit community feel.
- "Wakadini zvako?" - How are you?
- "Ndiwe chete!" - It's just you!
- "Ndokumbirawo!" - Please!
- "Ndinokuda!" - I love you!
- "Makorokoto!" - Congratulations!
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local markets, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and taste delicious street food. Don't forget to interact with the friendly vendors who offer unique handmade crafts.
Head to the nearby Ruwa National Park for a serene environment, perfect for hiking and enjoying the local flora and fauna. Catch sight of various wildlife species while taking in the beautiful landscapes.
Wrap up your day with a dinner at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional Zimbabwean cuisine. Experience the local nightlife by visiting nearby pubs and enjoying live music.
Begin your morning with a guided nature walk at the Ruwa Botanical Gardens, where you can learn about indigenous plant species. Enjoy the fresh air while strolling through lush greenery.
Visit the nearby Lake Chivero for some birdwatching and a chance to see hippos lounging by the shores. Consider renting a canoe to explore the tranquil waters.
Return to Ruwa and find a cozy café to enjoy a warm drink. Share your day's experience with locals and fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse community
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Natural beauty and access to scenic landscapes
- Emerging local markets and business opportunities
- Close-knit community with strong social ties
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities
- Infrastructural challenges such as unreliable electricity and water supply
- Economic instability and high unemployment rates
- Potential for political and social unrest
- Limited entertainment and recreational facilities compared to larger cities
Best Activities in Ruwa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna at Ruwa Botanical Gardens.
For the adventurous, enjoy an exhilarating white water rafting experience on the Zambezi River, which is not far from Ruwa.
Embark on a game drive in the nearby National Parks to observe the rich wildlife of Zimbabwe.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ruwa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ruwa
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Ruwa and its surroundings, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Provides stunning natural landscapes and wildlife, offering excellent photo opportunities.
A picturesque area with beautiful scenery, including a golf course, river, and lush greenery, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
Food in Ruwa
Ruwa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple in Zimbabwean cuisine, sadza, a maize meal, is typically served with a meat stew known as nyama, offering a rich and hearty taste of traditional flavors.
Must-Try!
Commonly enjoyed as a snack or part of the main meal, mopane worms are a local delicacy in Ruwa, known for their high protein content and unique taste.
Chimodho, or peanut butter stew, is a popular dish in Ruwa, featuring a savory blend of local spices and creamy peanut butter served with a choice of meat or vegetables.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ruwa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Ruwa Food Market offers a vibrant display of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food, allowing visitors to indulge in a diverse range of flavors and culinary experiences.
Tafadzwa Street Food Stalls are renowned for an array of delectable street food options, including grilled meats, maize-based snacks, and flavorful bites that capture the essence of local street cuisine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ruwa, it is important to greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning' when meeting them, as it is considered respectful and polite.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Ruwa, Zimbabwe. It is customary to show respect by using appropriate language and gestures when interacting with older individuals.
When visiting someone's home in Ruwa, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as food or a token of appreciation, as a gesture of respect and gratitude.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ruwa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ruwa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Ruwa, Zimbabwe is not commonly practiced, and it is not expected in most situations. However, in upscale restaurants and hotels, a small tip of 10-15% may be appreciated for exceptional service.
In Ruwa, Zimbabwe, cash is the predominant form of payment, especially in smaller establishments and local markets. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in larger establishments and hotels, but it's advisable to carry cash for transactions in most places.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ruwa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ruwa, with clear skies, low rainfall, and great opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Expect heavy rainfall, lush green landscapes, and the chance to see newborn animals, but some roads and facilities may be affected by the rain.
Ruwa at Night
Hiking in Ruwa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park with diverse flora and fauna, featuring beautiful hiking trails that take you through mountainous terrains and offer breathtaking views.
Known for its scenic beauty and high-altitude hiking, Nyanga offers trails that lead to waterfalls, mountains, and ancient forests.
A picturesque mountain range with well-marked trails, the Vumba Mountains are perfect for hikers seeking lush landscapes and a tranquil environment.
While primarily known for wildlife, Gonarezhou has several hiking trails that allow you to explore its rugged landscapes and unique geographical features.
Home to the highest waterfall in Zimbabwe, this area offers various hiking routes that showcase natural beauty and allow for close-up views of the cascading falls.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ruwa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ruwa by plane.
The main airport serving Harare, Zimbabwe's capital, located approximately 130 km from Ruwa.
International airport serving Victoria Falls, located about 600 km from Ruwa.
Also known as Joshua Mqabuko International Airport, located around 440 km from Ruwa.
Located in Botswana, approximately 450 km from Ruwa, serving regional flights.
Situated in Botswana, around 600 km from Ruwa, provides access to the Chobe National Park.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Zimbabwe, primarily residing in Ruwa and surrounding areas.
The second largest ethnic group in Zimbabwe, with a smaller presence in Ruwa.
People of mixed descent, with a community present in Ruwa.
A significant minority, primarily engaged in business and trade.
A small but historically significant group, with descendants from colonial times.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ruwa, with many local teams and community leagues. It is played at various levels, from youth leagues to adult competitions.
Cricket has a significant following in Ruwa, with several clubs and schools participating in tournaments. The sport is growing in popularity, especially among the youth.
Basketball is becoming increasingly popular in Ruwa, with local courts and community programs encouraging participation among young people.
Rugby has a dedicated following in Ruwa, with clubs and schools competing at various levels. The sport is well-organized, with regular matches and tournaments.
Athletics is a popular sport in schools in Ruwa, with various track and field events being held throughout the year, encouraging youth participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ruwa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries in Ruwa provide an assortment of vegetarian dishes, such as vegetable stews, salads, and grilled vegetable platters, ensuring that vegetarian visitors can savor the local fare with ease.
Several restaurants and cafes in Ruwa cater to vegan preferences, offering plant-based dishes, vegan-friendly snacks, and dairy-free alternatives to accommodate vegan dietary needs.
Visitors requiring gluten-free options can find various cafes and restaurants in Ruwa that serve gluten-free meals, including gluten-free bread, pasta, and specialized dishes that cater to gluten intolerance.