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Lake Chivero

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City
—°1
Lake Chivero (Zimbabwe)
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Practical info — Lake Chivero

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

Lake Chivero is the primary recreational escape for residents of Harare, located just 30 kilometers from the capital. The lake is famous for its game park on the northern shore, where visitors can spot rhinos, zebras, and giraffes in their natural habitat. Beyond wildlife viewing, it is a bustling hub for water sports, including sailing, rowing, and competitive fishing. Bird enthusiasts will find the lake particularly rewarding, as it hosts hundreds of species, with the African fish eagle being a frequent sight. Cultural history is also present in the form of ancient San rock paintings found among the granite outcrops surrounding the water. The landscape features a classic Zimbabwean Highveld feel with wide horizons and acacia-dotted woodlands. Access is easy via the main Harare-Bulawayo road, making it a first-rate day-trip destination. While open year-round, weekends are the most popular time for locals to enjoy 'braais' (barbecues) and picnics by the water. There are several rest camps and lodges offering basic amenities and striking lakeside views. Lake Chivero provides a unique opportunity to witness African wildlife and enjoy water-based recreation within easy reach of a major metropolitan area.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C212120191614141620222322
Rain mm18013394317319252594195

Geography

Coordinates
-17.90028, 30.79111

Facts

  • Primary water source for Harare
  • Located 30km from the capital
  • Features a 6000-hectare game park
  • Famous for bird watching
  • Home to the white rhino
  • Popular hub for boating
  • Site of ancient San rock art
  • Established in 1952

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Lake Chivero (1)

Lake Macilwane Recreational Park🌿 nature

The Lake Macilwane Recreational Park on Lake Chivero preserves a scenic shoreline environment dedicated to outdoor wildlife recreation.

Frequently asked questions

Lake Chivero: where is it located?
Lake Chivero is located in Zimbabwe.
Lake Chivero: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.
Lake Chivero: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Chivero is the primary recreational escape for residents of Harare, located just 30 kilometers from the capital.
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