Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Tourism Correspondent
LAST week, we ventured into the enchanting serenity of Lake Chicamba, a hidden aquatic gem nestled between the rolling Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe and the bustling town of Chimoio in Mozambique.
This week, we delve even deeper into the breathtaking beauty that defines the Manica and Manicaland provinces, uncovering more natural treasures and cultural marvels that straddle the border between Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
These regions, rich with life, history and rugged charm, offer a tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored by eco-tourists, history lovers, and wanderers alike.
As we continue to unravel the hidden jewels of Manica and Manicaland, the region is a vast and intricate canvas, painted with history, carved by rivers, crowned by forests and kissed by the wild.
It is a place where two countries meet not only in geography but in spirit and wonder.
Cabeça do Velho
A short distance from Chimoio, nature has carved an awe-inspiring monument Cabeça which in Portuguese means Old Man’s Head.
This towering granite rock formation, shaped remarkably like the profile of an elderly man gazing skyward, is both a geographical wonder and a cultural symbol.
Locals revere the site for its mysterious, stoic beauty and the folklore that surrounds it.
It is said that the rock guards the gateway to the region and brings wisdom to those who visit with a respectful heart.
Adventurers can hike up the nearby paths for panoramic views of Chimoio and its lush surroundings — making it a must-visit for hikers, photographers, and cultural explorers.
Revué River
Winding through the heart of Manica Province, the river is as poetic as it is picturesque.
It supports local communities, irrigates farms, powers hydroelectric dams, and nurtures wildlife along its fertile banks.
For travellers, Revué River offers an ideal backdrop for peaceful fishing expeditions, nature walks, and hydrotherapy in its clean, flowing waters.
In some sections, local eco-lodges and farm retreats are emerging, offering rustic getaways infused with the tranquil rhythms of river life.
Moribane Forest Reserve
Though technically located in neighbouring Sofala Province, the reserve lies close enough to the Manica border to warrant inclusion and deserves the spotlight.
This dense, evergreen forest forms part of the Chimanimani Transfrontier Conservation Area, and is home to rare species such as Samango monkeys, blue duikers, and a stunning variety of birdlife and medicinal plants.
What makes Moribane special is not just its flora and fauna, but the deep spiritual and cultural significance it holds for local communities.
Managed with community involvement, the reserve offers guided treks through sacred groves, stories passed down for generations, and insight into the traditional conservation methods that preserve the region’s biodiversity.
Mount Tsetsera
Crossing slightly into Zimbabwe, but easily accessible from Manica Province, Mount Tsetsera is one of the lesser-known peaks of the Eastern Highlands.
Popular with adventurous hikers, this mountain offers untamed trails, mystical morning mists, and 360-degree views of both Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
The region around Tsetsera is also dotted with small villages and cultural sites, making it a perfect blend of physical challenge and cultural immersion.
For those interested in cross-border eco-tourism, this is one of the most rewarding highland escapes in the area.
Zembe Rock and Chimoio Caves
Also near Chimoio is another impressive granite monolith that has drawn rock climbers and hikers for decades.
The nearby Chimoio Caves less developed for tourism but rich in anthropological interest are rumoured to contain evidence of early human habitation.
These caves and formations are popular with local history enthusiasts and geology buffs eager to explore the underground mysteries of the Manica highlands.
On a good weekend, looking to unwind away from the usual site in the Eastern Highlands, these places can offer a therapeutic feel.
A traveller can have a beautiful weekend or holiday away from the madding crowd.
