The Chimanimani Conservation Area >>The mountains of the spirits<<

The area is situated in the Mozambican province Manica, at the border to Zimbabwe. Chimanimani can be characterised as the southernmost extension of the famous African Rift Valley. The highest peak is Mt. Binga with 2436m. The core of the conservation area covers 1756km².

Visitors encounter a multitude of different landscapes. They gaze over a rich flora and numerous types of birds (paradise for ornithologists or botanists).

There are different antelope and in the Moribane-Forest is also a herd of elephant (but very shy and hard to track).

Some rivers in the planes have crocodiles, but also hard to see. Visitors very likely see snakes on their way through the bush.

The tours pass along clear creeks and rivers, reach magnificent waterfalls or cross old subtropical forests. The ascent of Mt. Binga is a worthwhile endeavour.

Trails often pass the gardens and homesteads of the local population. Visitors are guided to ancient rock paintings of the bushmen and see sacred places (waterfalls, springs…). It needs certain rituals to get allowance for the passage. An irritation of the ancestors can only be avoided through these rites.

The meeting with a different culture should be one of the highlights of such a voyage. It’s very fascinating to see the rhythmic clapping procedure the people use to greet.

Best time for hiking is during dry season between April and October. In June/ July nights can be fairly cold, but midday temperatures can still reach more than 30°C.

Between November and March heavy rains are common and temperatures reach highest levels. A hiking tour is also possible during rainy season, if planned properly.