Moffat Mungazi
Liberty Dube
Tourism Correspondent
VUMBA continues to captivate with its hidden treasures, and one of its most enchanting gems is the lesser-known, yet undeniably stunning Excelsior Falls, a breath-taking spectacle tucked away in the heart of nature’s grandeur.
Located approximately 23 kilometres from Mutare, and just a few kilometres from the more well-known Marindi Falls, Excelsior remains a quiet marvel, largely untouched by the crowds that flock to its neighbours.
Fed by the same unnamed river that courses through Marindi, this hidden gem shares the same life-giving waters, but offers a much more intimate and serene experience.
Excelsior Falls is a vision of pure tranquillity, surrounded by towering green trees, their leaves swaying gently in the breeze, while the air is alive with the sounds of countless indigenous and exotic birds.
The falls themselves, often overlooked, are truly a masterpiece of nature.
The water cascades with a graceful power, tumbling down the rocks in a series of delicate steps, creating an ethereal mist that dances in the sunlight.
The view is awe-inspiring, with the lush forest around it providing a rich, verdant backdrop. It’s a scene so picturesque it seems almost surreal, like something drawn from a dream.
The journey to this hidden paradise is not for the faint of heart. The poor road networks leading to the falls means visitors must park their vehicles and embark on a short trek of about a kilometre through the forest.
Yet, this walk only adds to the magic of the experience, as each step brings you deeper into the embrace of nature. As you make your way through the forest, the path is lined with vibrant wild-flowers, and the air is thick with the earthy scent of damp moss and pine. Occasionally, you may spot a flash of bright colour as an exotic bird flits through the trees or hear the melodic song of a nearby thrush or sunbird.
Unlike the more developed Marindi Falls, where picnics and braais are common activities, Excelsior’s rugged beauty and peaceful atmosphere demand reverence. The falls do not cater to large groups or noisy gatherings, but instead, offer solitude to those who seek solace in nature’s untouched corners.
There are no bustling crowds or distractions here — only the pure sound of water falling over the rocks, the chirping of birds, and the whispering wind through the leaves.
This relative isolation adds to the allure of Excelsior Falls, as it remains one of the least explored yet most captivating places in the Vumba. It is a sanctuary for nature lovers and photographers — place where time slows, and one can truly connect with the natural world.
For those fortunate enough to discover it, Excelsior Falls is an unforgettable, soul-stirring experience — a reminder of nature’s raw beauty, quiet strength, and enduring grace. It is, without question, a hidden treasure that deserves to be admired, celebrated, and preserved.
“The place is undeniably beautiful, yet remains largely unknown. It has been overshadowed by more popular waterfalls such as Marindi, Chinamata, Nyachowa, and others.
‘‘However, there is a significant opportunity to raise awareness and bring visitors to this stunning site. One idea is to create tailored tour packages, such as ‘A Waterfalls Tour,’ which could include Excelsior alongside other Vumba waterfalls. This will allow visitors to experience all of the falls in the area, with Excelsior becoming part of a greater narrative. Once people see it first hand, word will spread, and appreciation for the site will grow, leading to its eventual popularity.
“At present, the falls do not have designated picnic or braai areas, which limits some of the typical tourist activities. But with increased interest, local communities will begin to invest in the development of such amenities, just as they did at Marindi. Initially, Marindi lacked proper picnic facilities and braai areas, but as people began to appreciate its beauty, they took it upon themselves to improve the area.
“The timeless beauty of the Vumba waterfalls remains unspoiled, with their water sources remaining untouched and pristine. This ensures that these natural wonders will continue to thrive for generations to come. As a result, we can be confident that the waterfalls of Vumba, especially those like Excelsior — will remain intact, preserving their majesty for future visitors,” said Eastern Highlands Experience chairman, Mr William Chatigu.
With a bit of effort and proper promotion, Excelsior and the other waterfalls of Vumba could become an essential part of the region’s tourism appeal, attracting both local and international visitors eager to explore these hidden gems.
As more people discover the area’s natural beauty, it is likely that this once-overlooked site will bloom into a celebrated destination in its own right, offering a unique experience amidst the lush, green backdrop of the Eastern Highlands.
Online Reporter