Nestled in the eastern highlands of Zimbabwe along the border with Mozambique, Mutare captivates visitors with its stunning mountain scenery, pleasant climate, and rich cultural heritage. As Zimbabwe’s fourth-largest city, this gateway to the Eastern Highlands offers a perfect blend of urban conveniences and natural splendour, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking authentic African experiences away from crowded tourist spots.

Formerly known as Umtali during colonial times, Mutare was established in 1897 and sits in a valley surrounded by the spectacular Cecil Kop Nature Reserve and Christmas Pass. At an elevation of about 1,120 meters (3,670 feet), the city enjoys a mild climate year-round, earning it the nickname “Zimbabwe’s Cool City.”

Mutare serves as the commercial hub for the agriculturally rich eastern highlands, with timber, citrus fruits, and tea being major industries. The nearby Bvumba Mountains and Nyanga National Park have further enhanced the region’s appeal as an eco-tourism destination.

Best Time to Visit

April to October (Dry Season): Considered the ideal time to visit with comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. This period offers the best conditions for hiking and outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains.

November to March (Rainy Season): The landscape transforms with lush greenery, but occasional heavy rains might disrupt outdoor plans. The upside is fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates.

How to Get to Mutare

By Air: The nearest major international airport is Harare International Airport, about 260 km away. From there, you can connect to Mutare by road.

By Road: Well-maintained highways connect Mutare to Harare (approximately 3-4 hours by car) and to the Mozambican border (just 8 km from the city center). Regular bus services operate between major Zimbabwean cities and Mutare.

By Train: The National Railways of Zimbabwe offers passenger services between Harare and Mutare, though schedules can be irregular.

Where to Stay in Mutare

Luxury Accommodations in Mutare

Inn on the Rupurara A boutique hotel set in a converted colonial mansion with spectacular mountain views. Features elegant rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving international cuisine with a Zimbabwean twist. Price range: $150-200 per night

Cecil Kop Mountain Lodge Located near the nature reserve, this upscale lodge offers private chalets with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. Amenities include a spa, outdoor pool, and guided hiking tours. Price range: $130-180 per night

Mid-Range Accommodations in Mutare

Holiday Inn Mutare A reliable international chain hotel in the city center with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, swimming pool, and conference facilities. Price range: $80-120 per night

Leopard Rock Hotel Located in the nearby Bvumba Mountains (30 minutes from Mutare), this historical hotel offers colonial charm, a golf course, swimming pool, and beautiful gardens. Price range: $90-130 per night

Budget-Friendly Accommodations in Mutare

Mutare Backpackers A clean, friendly hostel offering dormitory beds and private rooms with shared facilities. Community kitchen and common areas facilitate meeting fellow travelers. Price range: $15-40 per night

Golden Peacock Villa Hotel A newer Chinese-built hotel offering surprising value with clean, comfortable rooms and basic amenities. Price range: $50-80 per night

Where to Eat in Mutare

Local Cuisine

Matapos Restaurant A local favorite serving authentic Zimbabwean dishes including sadza (maize meal porridge), nyama (grilled meat), and madora (mopane worms). The outdoor seating area offers views of the mountains. Average meal cost: $10-15

Musangano Lodge Restaurant Located just outside the city, this restaurant focuses on farm-to-table Zimbabwean cuisine using ingredients from their own garden. Try their traditional game meat stews. Average meal cost: $15-25

International Options

La Rochelle Bistro Located in the historic La Rochelle estate (about 20 km from Mutare), this restaurant serves French-inspired cuisine in a charming setting surrounded by botanical gardens. Average meal cost: $20-30

Gigi’s Pizzeria Wood-fired pizzas and Italian classics in a casual setting in the city center. Average meal cost: $8-15

Cafés & Quick Bites in Mutare

Tony’s Coffee Shop A charming café in the Bvumba Mountains famous for its homemade cakes, pastries, and excellent Zimbabwean coffee. Average cost: $5-10

Cecil Kop Café Located at the entrance to Cecil Kop Nature Reserve, this casual eatery offers sandwiches, light meals, and refreshments perfect for hikers. Average cost: $5-8

What to Do in Mutare

Nature & Outdoor Activities in Mutare

Cecil Kop Nature Reserve Bordering the city, this 1,600-hectare reserve offers hiking trails, bird watching, and chances to spot zebra, eland, and various antelope species. The panoramic views of Mutare from the viewpoints are spectacular. Entrance fee: $10

Bvumba Mountains Just 30 minutes from Mutare, these misty mountains (also known as “Mountains of the Mist”) offer excellent hiking trails, botanical gardens, and the Bvumba Forest Reserve with its rich biodiversity. Day trip cost: $30-50 including transport

Nyanga National Park About an hour’s drive north of Mutare, this national park features Zimbabwe’s highest peak (Mount Nyangani), waterfalls, and the beautiful Nyangombe River. Perfect for hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. Entrance fee: $15

Cultural Experiences in Mutare

Mutare Museum Learn about the region’s natural and cultural history through exhibits on geology, ethnography, and transportation. The museum houses an impressive collection of vintage steam locomotives. Entrance fee: $5

Utopia House Arts Centre A vibrant cultural hub showcasing local art, crafts, and regular performances of traditional dance and music. Entrance fee: Variable depending on events

Zimbabwe Traditional Village Tour Several tour operators offer visits to nearby rural villages where you can experience daily life, traditional crafts, and local customs with the Shona people. Tour cost: $25-40

Shopping & Markets in Mutare

Sakubva Market Mutare’s largest open-air market offers a colorful array of fresh produce, crafts, and everyday items. It’s a great place to experience local life and practice your bargaining skills. Cost: Free entrance

Avenues Craft Market Find handmade souvenirs including stone sculptures (a Zimbabwean specialty), woven baskets, and beadwork from local artisans. Cost: Free entrance

Day Trips from Mutare

Hot Springs Resort About 80 km from Mutare, these natural hot springs offer therapeutic bathing and swimming pools filled with mineral-rich water. Day trip cost: $40-60 including transport

Chimanimani National Park Two hours south of Mutare, this mountainous park offers some of Zimbabwe’s most dramatic landscapes with quartzite peaks, waterfalls, and diverse flora. Day trip cost: $50-80 including transport

Vumba Botanical Gardens Located in the Bvumba Mountains, these beautiful gardens showcase exotic plants alongside indigenous species. The adjacent forest is home to rare butterflies and birds. Entrance fee: $10

Practical Information for first time visitors in Mutare

Currency

The US Dollar is the primary currency used in Zimbabwe, though the Zimbabwean Dollar was reintroduced in 2019. Most businesses in Mutare prefer US Dollars. Credit cards are accepted at larger establishments, but it’s advisable to carry cash.

Communication

Major mobile networks operate in Mutare with reasonable coverage. SIM cards are available for purchase with identification. Many hotels and restaurants offer Wi-Fi, though connection speeds can vary.

Safety

Mutare is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions apply. Avoid displaying valuables, be cautious when using ATMs, and don’t walk alone at night. The political situation in Zimbabwe can sometimes be volatile, so check travel advisories before your trip.

Health

Medical facilities in Mutare are limited compared to Western standards. Travel insurance with evacuation coverage is recommended. Malaria is present in the region, particularly in the lower-lying areas, so consult your doctor about prophylaxis.

Insider Tips

1. Learn a few Shona phrases – Locals appreciate visitors who make an effort to speak their language, even if it’s just basic greetings.
2. Visit during the Mutare Arts Festival – If your trip coincides with this annual event (usually held in August), you’ll experience the best of local music, dance, and visual arts.
3. Take the scenic Christmas Pass drive – This winding mountain road offers spectacular views of Mutare and was once part of the famous Cape to Cairo route.
4. Support community initiatives – Several tour operators in Mutare direct portions of their fees to local community development projects.
5. Pack layers – Due to the elevation, temperature variations between day and night can be significant, even during summer months.

Mutare offers an authentic Zimbabwean experience away from the more touristy areas like Victoria Falls and Harare. Its combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and genuine local hospitality makes it an excellent destination for travellers seeking to explore Zimbabwe beyond the usual highlights. Whether you’re hiking in the misty mountains, exploring local markets, or simply enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of this mountain city, Mutare rewards visitors with memorable experiences and a deeper understanding of Zimbabwe’s diverse heritage.