Things to do in Masvingo
Visiting Masvingo to explore the Great Zimbabwe monument is not a one-day trip; we recommend spending 4 to 6 days fully immersing yourself in the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the area. Beyond the stunning ruins of Great Zimbabwe, there are numerous attractions to discover, such as the nearby Masvingo Italian Chapel, the scenic Lake Mutirikwi, and hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views of the landscape. Engaging in activities like guided hikes, wildlife viewing, and exploring local markets provides a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage. By extending your stay, you’ll create unforgettable memories and truly appreciate everything that Masvingo has to offer.
Please ensure you carry local currancy as many places do not accept card.
Discover the Rock Paintings
Masvingo is home to numerous ancient rock painting sites, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early humans who once inhabited the region. There are over 20 rock art sites scattered across the area, each featuring intricate paintings created thousands of years ago—some dating back over 2,000 years. These paintings were made using natural pigments derived from plants, animal fat, and ochre, applied by hand or with simple tools. The art primarily depicts scenes of daily life, wildlife, and spiritual beliefs of the San people, who used these paintings as a form of storytelling and cultural expression. Exploring these rock art sites provides a unique connection to Zimbabwe’s ancient past.
Difficulty: Depending on the site, difficulty ranges between a 20 min short walk and a hike. Speak to your guide about which sites are best for you to view.
Cost: Free activity
Tour Guide: Required
Lake Mutirikwi (Formerly Kyle) Recreational Park
Lake Mutirikwi Recreational Park, formerly known as Kyle Recreational Park, is a stunning natural reserve in Masvingo, offering diverse wildlife, outdoor activities, and breathtaking scenery. One of the park’s highlights is its population of white rhinos, which still proudly bear their horns. These magnificent creatures are carefully protected through intensive anti-poaching efforts, ensuring their safety in the wild.
Visitors can explore the park on foot, with several hiking trails that offer an up-close experience with nature. The park also features well-maintained camping areas, perfect for an overnight stay. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the serene waters of the dam, while the park’s sunsets paint the sky with beautiful colours, making for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or enjoying a peaceful evening by the lake, Lake Mutirikwi is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Difficulty: Easy, depending on fitness level you can get around the park by car or foot.
Cost: It’s recommended to contact the park or nearby accommodations for the most up-to-date pricing on activities like fishing, camping, and day-use fees. Cash required, cards not accepted.
Tour Guide: Not required
Masvingo Italian Chapel
The Masvingo Italian Chapel is a small, yet deeply spiritual, place of worship built during World War II by Italian prisoners of war held in Masvingo (then Fort Victoria). These prisoners constructed the chapel as a symbol of their faith, resilience, and hope. The chapel was a space for spiritual reflection and worship, and remarkably, it still serves that purpose today, offering a sacred space for both visitors and worshipers.
The chapel also holds the ashes of some of these Italian prisoners, adding to its solemn significance. Visitors are encouraged to admire the beauty and craftsmanship of the chapel while showing deep respect for its history and sanctity. As a place of spiritual reverence, the Masvingo Italian Chapel stands as a reminder of the enduring human spirit and the ability to create beauty and meaning, even in challenging times.
Difficulty: Easy
Cost: Free
Tour Guide: Not required
Lake Mutirikwi Dam Wall
The Lake Mutirikwi Dam Wall, built by Italian prisoners of war in the 1950s, is a vital structure in the Masvingo region. It created Lake Mutirikwi, Zimbabwe’s largest inland lake, ensuring water for agriculture and providing a hub for recreation and wildlife. The dam’s construction is a testament to both engineering and human endurance, playing a crucial role in the region’s economic and ecological sustainability.
Close to the dam is a small Catholic chapel, built by a father for his daughter, seating just 12 people to symbolise the 12 disciples. This intimate chapel adds a spiritual dimension to the area, offering visitors a serene spot for reflection amidst the striking landscape.
Difficulty: Easy, can be walked or driven.
Cost: Free
Tour Guide: Not required
Cave with Passage to King’s Chambers
On your way to the Lake Mutirikwi Dam Wall, a short walk leads you to a fascinating cave that is well worth the journey. This cave contains a historical tunnel that once connected to the King’s Chambers in Great Zimbabwe. The Shona people used this tunnel for the storage of grains and gold, reflecting the significance of the site in their daily lives and trade practices.
Although the construction of the dam has since flooded the tunnel, the cave still holds a wealth of history and beauty. Visitors can appreciate the natural formations within the cave while imagining its storied past as a vital resource for the Shona civilization. This site not only enhances the experience of exploring Masvingo but also deepens your connection to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Difficulty: Easy to intermediate, contains a short walk that includes climbing under and over trees and shrubs, but is relatively easy.
Cost: Free
Tour Guide: Required
Bat Cave
The Bat Cave Hike near Masvingo is a thrilling 3-kilometre trek that takes adventurers on a challenging yet breathtaking journey through the rugged terrain of the Masvingo mountains. The hike descends into a valley before climbing back uphill to a cave filled with bats. As you approach the cave, you’ll experience the unique sensation of bats flying overhead, creating an eerie yet exciting atmosphere.
The hike requires a guide due to the difficulty of the trail, but the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains make it well worth the effort. It’s a physically demanding hike, but those who embark on it are rewarded with both the natural beauty of the landscape and the thrill of exploring the bat-filled cave. This adventure offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and is a true gem of the Masvingo region.
Difficulty: Difficult to intermediate due to distance and terrain.
Cost: Free
Tour Guide: Required
And so much more…
Masvingo offers a wealth of activities beyond just the Great Zimbabwe monument, making it a vibrant destination for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike. You can do Towniship Tours, explore Finger Rock, a stunning natural formation that provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Numerous caves dot the area, each with its unique history and charm, adding to the region’s allure.
There are also numerous places to purchase suveniers to take home with you, including inside the Shona Village at Great Zimbabwe or outside the Great Zimbabwe entrance.
Additionally, the bustling streets of Masvingo town are alive with local culture, where you can purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from road vendors, experiencing the region’s agricultural richness firsthand. The combination of historical sites, outdoor adventures, and local markets ensures that the activities in Masvingo are endless, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Zimbabwe.
5 day ITINERARY
Day 1
Arrive in Masvingo & settle into your accommodation.
Get Lunch / Dinner in the town and purchase fruit from the vendors for the week.
Day 2
Start day 2 with an early morning trip the Great Zimbabwe Destination.
Visit the Dam Wall after lunch.
End off at the Italian Chapel.
Day 3
Visit the areas caves and rock art.
Hike down to the bat caves.
End off at your accomodation early or visit the town.
Day 4
Visit Great Zimbabwe Destination for the second time where you can relook at the marvel with fresh eyes.
End off at Lake Mutirikwi Recreational Park mid-day, drive around looking at the game. Bring a picnic and end off at sunset overlooking the Lake Mutirikwi for dinner.
Day 5
Finish off your trip in the town before leaving for your next adventure.