Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
There are many possible routes. For climbing Mt Binga, a good starting point is
Chikukwa, where guides and porters can be arranged. Allow two to three days for the
climb, including travel time to/from Chimoio.
Another possible destination in the area is the lovely Moribane Forest, which features
beautiful low- to mid-altitude tropical rainforest in the Chimanimani National Reserve
buffer zone, and can be accessed from the Sussungenga-Dombe road.
For those with a 4WD, Mt Tsetserra is another possible route. From its base you can
climb up a rough 4WD track through some beautiful, bird-filled montane rainforest to the
top of the Tsetserra plateau (three to four hours return), or do various day or overnight
walks. At the summit are the ruins of an old mansion (a hotel is planned), and camping.
Once up in the mountains you have to be entirely self-sufficient. Be prepared for sud-
den changes in weather, especially for mist, rain and cold, and keep in mind that the
routes are physically demanding. Hikes begin at about 700m in altitude, the highlands are
at around 1800m and the highest peaks well above 2000m.
Sleeping
There are twin-bed tents (d Mtc1250) with bucket baths and a basic self-catering kitchen
at the main entrance to Chimanimani National Reserve, and rudimentary huts (per person
Mtc200) at Chikukwa. However, carrying a tent is recommended (camping costs Mtc100
per person). If you plan on using the reserve tents or huts, check first at the
Provincial
Bldg, Rua dos Operários)
in Chimoio to confirm availability.
CAMPGROUND
Ndzou Camp $
(
www.mozecotours.com
;
campsite per tent Mtc400, 3-person tent Mtc1300, d rondavel
Mtc2150, 6- person self-catering house Mtc3200)
Ndzou Camp, a joint venture between
Eco-Micaia
(
www.micaia.org
)
and the local community, is a wonderful, well-run place in
the middle of Moribane Forest Reserve with camping,
rondavels
and a small family lodge.
Staying here is a real highlight of exploring the Chimanimani area. Also on offer at Ndzou
are guided forest walks, eco-learning activities and the chance to track the local popula-
tion of forest elephants. The camp can be reached via public transport. Pick-ups from
Chimoio airfield can also be arranged.
