Budja Experience
Places of Interest North East Zimbabwe
We are a 58 roomed hotel located north east of Zimbabwe along the Harare – Nyamapanda highway (N2). All our rooms are en suite, air conditioned with DStv, mini bar and working table. Our inhouse amenities include a swimming pool, beach volley ball court, bar and an up market restaurant.
Our location makes it easy and convenient to connect to areas of Mudzi, Rushinga, UMP, Mutoko and east of Nyanga. These areas are rich in culture and it would be an opportunity to see some of the interesting places in between the election oberserver mission duties. Some of the places are briefly described below:
Mutoko Ruins
These are believed to have been occupied in the 1600’s by King Makate. The fairy tale of Mutoko ruins include claims of magical powers and beliefs. Makate was eventually defeated by Nohoreka. Upon defeat, Makate and his entire clansmen are believed to have disappeared into a granite rock. To this day some people believe to have stumbled onto the gateway into the rock yet nobody can precisely locate the gateway.
Mutemwa Mountain
This mountain is close to Mutoko Ruins. Many consider it holy. Many church groups believe that miracles happy there.
A visit with a tour guide is worthwhile.
Picnics at the Banks of Mazowe River
The Mazowe river meanders from north of Harare through Mashonaland Central to Mashonaland East on its wat joining the mighty Zambezi in Mozambique. Some sections on the river have been invaded by gold panners but there are some nice spots for picnics. A highly recommended spot is at Nyatana by the Game Park.
African Rock Art
Mashonaland is an important rock art province with many rock art sites. Some of these are estimated to be around 7 000years old yet are still visible. Various interpretations on the painting have been suggested on what the art depicts.
Ruchera Cave
This cave is near Mutoko ruins. The paintings are densely superimposed in this domed cave. More information is on: https://zimfieldguide.com/mashonaland-east/ruchera-cave
Gambarimwe Cave
This cave is well concealed behind boulders on the crest of the hill. It is recommended to take a guide to show the way. More details at: https://zimfieldguide.com/Mashonaland-east/gambarimwe-cave
Elephant Caves
Not much is written about these stunning rock paintings. Maybe, this could be because of their remoteness some 45KM off the tarred Harare- Nyamapanda highway. These caves are in Charewa and are known as the most visible rock art in Zimbabwe. A visit is worth the drive.
Manhemba Cave
The cave is a little remote but the climb to the cave is worth the effort. Some of the paintings depict ‘mother of goddesses’, arrow of sickness, many reclining figures and a variety of animals. The following link gives more details
https://zimfieldguide.com/Mashonaland-east/manemba-cave
Scenic Views
The Mudzi/Mutoko area is adorned with many areas with amazing scenic views. The area is characterised by rocky hills overlooking valleys. The balancing rock feature is almost found everywhere. Sunsets are spectacular.