Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ern Africa to see the green-headed oriole, and one of just a handful of places where you
can see the dappled mountain robin and Swynnerton's forest robin.
Mt Gorongosa is considered sacred, but it's possible to climb to its upper slopes with a
local guide. A base camp for hikers and birdwatchers has been set up near the beautiful
Morumbodzi Falls , which are on the mountain's western side at about 950m. From the
camp, there are paths to the falls (about one hour's easy walk away), birding walks and
overnight climbs to the summit (about six hours one way). Hikes to the falls can be or-
ganised through park headquarters (contact@gorongosa.net) from about US$70 per per-
son including transport. Gorongosa Adventures Campsite ( Click here ) , outside the park
gate, can also help with hikes to the falls, as well as to the summit, as can the small
community-based group, Mangwana ( www.ecomangwana.com ) .
According to tradition, no red can be worn when climbing the mountain and the climb
must be undertaken barefoot, though this latter requirement seems to be conveniently
waived these days. This is just as well: the mountain receives about 2000mm of rain a
year, and the wet, humid conditions, combined with the steepness of the path on the upper
reaches, make the going slippery approaching the summit. Good shoes and a reasonable
degree of fitness are essential.
To get to the Morumbodzi base camp area, follow the N6 from Beira to the turn-off at
Inchope. Continue north along the tarmac road, passing the turn-off for Gorongosa park
and continuing another 25km or so further to Gorongosa town. About 10km beyond
Gorongosa town, turn off the main highway to the right, and continue 10km along an un-
paved track to the base camp. Transport from the park can be organised through park staff.
Chimoio
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Chimoio is the capital of Manica province and Mozambique's fifth-largest town. While its
tourist attractions are modest, it's a pleasant place with an agreeable climate and worth a
stop if you're in the area. It's also the jumping-off point for exploring the Chimanimani
Mountains to the southwest.
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