Mutare is capital of the Manicaland Province. In our profile it is linked with Bvumba because of their proximity to each other.

Mutare, (the name is that of a river meaning 'piece of metal') lies attractively cupped in surrounding mountains. The winding road down from Christmas Pass into the city opens up lovely panoramic views. Mutare has a unique history since it was moved three times. Established (for the third time) where it is now in 1895, to be the railway junction between Mozambique and Zimbabwe, Mutare is gateway to Zimbabwe's eastern neighbour and the Indian Ocean. Forbes Border Post is only a few kilometres away.

Getting there. Utilitarian Tenda bus service runs daily between Harare/Mutare and return. (For enquiries Tel: 263-4-486816 or 486852).

What to pack: Summer days can become hot and humid calling for light, comfortable dress, together with a pac-a-mac for rain showers. Winter temperatures do not drop as low as in surrounding mountains: warm clothing that can easily be put on and taken off during the day is best.

General Interest: Mutare is a sawmill base for surrounding forestry plantations.

About Bvumba

The Eastern Highlands are like a backbone along Zimbabwe's border with Mozambique, and comprise three distinct mountain ranges - Nyanga, Bvumba and Chimanimani. They are noted for their beauty with misty blue green mountains, at times rugged landscape, pine forests, lakes and open moorlands. They are also known for their scenic golf courses, casinos and fireside hospitality.

Air in the Highlands is cooler than elsewhere in Zimbabwe, especially from May to September. It often turns very cold in June and July - these two months however, are when beautiful sunny days can be almost guaranteed.

The Bvumba is Mutare's on-the-doorstep pleasure resort; an archipelago of mountain peaks and valleys, sometimes mist-shrouded, and host to ancient forests and sub-tropical plants. Forests are the result of moist winds blowing in from the Indian Ocean. It is a paradise for those who enjoy bracing air, walks, mountain climbing and birding. An added attraction is a world-class golf course. Hotels, lodges, self-catering chalets and camping facilities are available.

What to pack: Summer days are comfortably warm. A little more cover-up for when the mist comes in, or when it rains, would be advisable. Winter is dry, apart from occasional mist. Mornings and evenings are cold, but daytime out-of-door temperatures rise enough to shed warm clothing. A good pair of walking shoes, a pac-a-mac and binoculars would complete requirements for a walking/birding expedition.

General Interest. Much of interest is still happening in the Bvumba. Farmers grow Pecan nuts, an enterprising person makes and sells apple cider vinegar, proteas are cultivated, and there is a vegetable and fruit-canning factory. A cabinet-maker produces very fine and intricately carved furniture and there are two plant nurseries.