The Eastern Highlands occur along Zimbabwe's border with Mozambique, and comprise three distinct mountain ranges - Nyanga, Bvumba and Chimanimani. They are noted for their beautiful misty blue green mountains, pine forests, lakes and open moorlands. They are also known for their scenic golf courses, casinos, and cosy, fireside hospitality. Air in the Highlands is significantly cooler than anywhere else in Zimbabwe, especially from May to September. There are often very cold days in June and July - these two months however, are when beautiful sunny days can be almost guaranteed.

Nyanga - (Northern Mountain Range) is frequently compared to the Scottish Highlands, and offers something for everyone; hiking, trout fishing, boating, tennis, golf, swimming (streams are bilharzia free. For bilharzia see Tourist Tips - Health), or just relaxing in the breathtaking scenery and invigorating mountain air. Where cars cannot go, paths lead to mountain streams, cascading waterfalls, through pine forests, and across grassy mountainsides. These may be explored on foot, or horseback.

Transport: Public transport does not go to Nyanga on a regular basis, but for those with their own vehicles good, tarred roads go from Harare and Mutare. Distance from Harare is 275 km and from Mutare, approximately 80 km. The entrance is beyond Juliasdale and Parks Reception and Offices are clearly signposted.

Visitors into self-catering holidays would find most basic requirements at the small centers of Nyanga Village, Troutbeck and Juliasdale.

Accommodation varies from campsites to 5 star hotels.

What to pack: Summer days are temperate, although hot enough to enjoy a bracing swim; take a raincoat and umbrella, light day garments, and something warmer for early mornings and evenings. Winter mornings and evenings are very cold, days are sunny with a nip in the air. Clothing that can be taken off easily as the day warms up is best. If you plan to go walking a small rucksack with water bottle would be a good idea.

Security: Zimbabwe Republic Police have established two new satellite police stations to improve cover of the vast Nyanga area.
Keep car doors locked when traveling and parked and make use of the safe keeping facility for valuables at your accommodation. If you plan to hike it would be advisable to take the precaution of going with at least one other person.