Chipinge - Discovering Zimbabwe

Travelling to Chipinge

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Chipinge, a pretty good destination in Zimbabwe (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Chipinge and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Chipinge, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Zimbabwe, here's everything to know about Chipinge for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Chipinge

Chipinge is a town located in the southeastern parts of Zimbabwe. It's known for its tea and coffee farming industry, as well as its close proximity to the Chipinge Safari Area, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards. The town has a tropical climate, with the rainy season occurring between November and March. Chipinge is accessible by road and is approximately a four-hour drive from the city of Harare. The town has a small airport for local flights and there are also bus services available for transportation.

What to visit in Chipinge

Certainly! Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Chipinge, Zimbabwe: 1. Chimanimani National Park: This is a protected area in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe. It is characterized by beautiful mountains, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can go hiking, bird-watching, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
2. Tessa's Pool: This is a natural pool that is found in the nearby mountains. It is famous for its clear blue water and surrounding scenic views. Visitors can spend time swimming and enjoying a picnic in the surroundings.
3. Chipinge Tea Estates: Chipinge is known for its tea production, and visitors can tour the tea estates to learn about the process of growing and processing tea. The tea grown in this region is known to be of excellent quality.
4. Birchenough Bridge: This iron suspension bridge was built over the Sabi River and is one of the most iconic landmarks of Zimbabwe. It is known as the second longest bridge of its kind worldwide.
5. Chipinge Safari Area:Covers over 500,000 hectares and is a wilderness sanctuary that's home to a diverse range of wildlife. This includes elephants, lions, buffalos, zebras, giraffes, impalas and many other wild animals. Visitors can go on game-drives or bush walks to see the wildlife.
6. Chirinda Forest: This is a tropical rainforest located near Chipinge, Zimbabwe. Visitors can explore the forest and see the diverse flora, including giant trees and lots of bird life.
Chipinge is a serene destination, covered with even more hidden gems and places to explore.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Zimbabwe, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Chipinge

The best time to visit Chipinge is during the dry season which is from May to September. During this period, the weather is dry, sunny and warmer with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, game drives, and bird watching. However, it's important to pack warm clothing as the temperatures can get cooler during the evenings. The rainy season in Chipinge runs from November to April which often comes along with heavy rainfall and muddier terrain, making it harder to explore the beautiful landscapes the region has to offer.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Chipinge

The most common way to get to Chipinge is by road. You can take a bus or drive yourself from the city of Mutare, which is about 110 kilometers away. If you're traveling from outside Zimbabwe, you can fly into the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare and take a connecting flight to the nearby Mutare airport. You can also take a train from Harare to Mutare and then continue by bus or car to Chipinge.
Be sure to always check the latest travel advisories and safety information before embarking on your journey to Chipinge.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Chipinge, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Chipinge

Chipinge, a town located in the southeastern part of Zimbabwe, is known for its delicious local cuisine that is heavily influenced by the Shona and Ndebele cultures. Here are some of the typical foods of Chipinge: 1. Sadza - This is a staple food in Zimbabwe, and Chipinge is no exception. It is a thick maize meal that is rolled into balls and served with a variety of meats and vegetables.
2. Matemba - These are dried fish that are sun-dried and salted. They are often served with sadza or other starch dishes.
3. Muriwo Unedovi - This is a traditional Shona dish made with leafy vegetables, tomatoes, onions, and peanut butter. It is typically served with sadza.
4. Jerere - This is a type of wild spinach that is found in Zimbabwe. It is used in various dishes, including soups, stews, and vegetable dishes.
5. Dovi - This is a peanut butter stew that is often served with sadza. It is made with a variety of vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, and leafy greens.
6. Mabhonzo Emombe - This is a beef and peanut butter stew that is typically served with sadza or rice.
7. Maheu - This is a traditional Zimbabwean drink made from fermented maize meal. It is a refreshing non-alcoholic drink that is often served at social gatherings and events.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods of Chipinge. If you are visiting the area, be sure to try some of these traditional dishes to experience the local flavors and culture.
You can find general info about typical foods in Zimbabwe here.

Is Chipinge an expensive destination for tourists?

Chipinge in Zimbabwe is not considered to be an expensive destination for tourists. Accommodation, food, and transportation are generally affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations in the region. However, it is always recommended to research on accommodation and travel options beforehand and plan and manage your budget accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Chipinge

Chipinge, Zimbabwe, has limited accommodation options. However, the areas around the town center are the best places to find accommodation. These areas include Tonota, Garnett, and Chipinge West. They are relatively close to tourist attractions such as Chimanimani Mountains, hot springs, tea estates and national parks.
You can check hotel prices at Chipinge here:
Booking.com

Is Chipinge a safe destination for tourists?

Chipinge is generally considered to be a safe place for tourists. However, it is always important to take necessary safety precautions when traveling to any unfamiliar destination. Some tips to ensure your safety in Chipinge include: 1. Stay in well-lit, populated areas at night and avoid walking alone in secluded areas.
2. Avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuable items with you, and keep your belongings close to you at all times.
3. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas such as markets or public transportation.
4. Choose reputable taxi or transportation services and confirm the price beforehand to avoid any scams or theft.
5. Keep important documents such as passports, visas, and identification in a safe place and make copies in case of loss or theft.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Zimbabwe here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Chipinge.

What type of travelers will enjoy Chipinge the most?

Chipinge, Zimbabwe, is a town located in the Eastern Highlands and is best known for its tea plantations, natural reserves, and opportunities for adventure activities such as birdwatching and hiking. Chipinge is a great destination for families and nature lovers who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, explorative walks, and birdwatching in the natural reserves. Couples who love nature and adventure may also find Chipinge to be an ideal destination where they can explore the beautiful tea plantations or take a hot air balloon ride over the scenic landscape. Young people looking for fun may not find it as attractive as other destinations with vibrant nightlife, but they can enjoy exploring the local food and culture.
Overall, Chipinge is more suited for those who enjoy nature and outdoor activities over nightlife and urban experiences.

How to get around Chipinge

The most common mode of transportation in Chipinge, Zimbabwe is by bus or shared taxis known as "commuter omnibuses". Additionally, there are also private taxis available for hire. Some people also prefer to walk as the town is relatively small. It is important to note that public transportation in Chipinge may not always be reliable, so it is advisable to plan ahead and be prepared for delays.

What to see around Chipinge

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Chipinge, Zimbabwe: 1. Chirinda Forest Reserve - Known for its towering trees, scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and birdwatching opportunities.
2. Chimanimani Mountains - A popular destination for hiking and waterfalls, it offers spectacular views and a surreal experience of the natural landscapes.
3. Great Zimbabwe National Monument - A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this archaeological site includes ancient ruins and a museum where visitors can learn about the history of the place.
4. Vumba Botanical Gardens - A peaceful and serene space, it is home to a variety of plant species, birds, and butterflies.
5. Gonarezhou National Park - A wildlife sanctuary that is home to several African species, including elephants, big cats, and wild dogs. 6. Hot Springs at Birchenough Bridge - A thermal hot spring that offers a chance to relax and rejuvenate in natural mineral baths. 7. Mutare Museum - A small museum with interesting exhibits on the culture, history, and traditions of the region.
For every travel information about Zimbabwe you can click here.

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