Eastern Highlands

The Eastern or 'East African Highlands' is a mountain range in the east of Zimbabwe and one of 4 distinct physiographic divisions on the African continent The range forms Zimbabwe's eastern border with Mozambique and comprises three main mountain groups - Nyanga (to the north) which contains Zimbabwe's highest mountain Mount Nyangani, Africa's second-longest waterfall Mutarazi Falls and the Honde Valley which leads into Mozambique; Bvumba Mountains (centrally situated near the city of Mutare); and Chimanimani (to the south). These regions are all sparsely populated, highland country and are covered in rich grassland and forests.

Much of the area consists of rolling hills and this has resulted in it being nick-named the “Scottish Highlands of Africa”. The Vumba Mountains or “Mountains of Mist” are positioned centrally in a region of high rainfall, which has created areas of montane and cloud forest along with a unique flora. Within the mountains, the Vumba Botanical Gardens contain spectacular terraces crammed with trees, shrubs and flowers from all over the world. The gardens are of special interest to birders.

The beautiful scenery of the Eastern Highlands is breathtaking and the main attraction of the region is great hiking and fabulous scenery unlike any other place in Africa. The Eastern Highlands are also a popular destination for golfing, fishing, horseback riding and birdwatching.