Lake Chivero

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.

Nearby cities

Kadoma

Kadoma is a key mining and agricultural town in the Mashonaland West Province, known for its gold, copper, and nickel deposits.

Chinhoyi

Chinhoyi is the administrative capital of Mashonaland West and is world-renowned for the stunning Chinhoyi Caves.

Norton

Norton is a thriving industrial and residential town located just west of Harare along the main road to Bulawayo.

Chegutu

Chegutu is a significant agricultural and trading center in the Mashonaland West Province.

Karoi

Karoi is a prosperous agricultural town in the Mashonaland West Province, renowned as one of Zimbabwe's most productive tobacco-growing d…

Kariba

Kariba is a scenic town built on the shores of Lake Kariba, famous for its massive hydroelectric dam and its role as a major tourist resort.

Banket

Banket is a thriving farming town in the fertile Mashonaland West Province, located just south of Chinhoyi.

Chakari

Chakari is a traditional and established gold-mining settlement in the Mashonaland West Province.

History & landmarks

New Parliament Building

A monumental complex at Mount Hampden serving as the new seat of Zimbabwe's legislature.

Kariba Dam

A massive double curvature concrete arch dam in the Zambezi River basin, forming one of the world's largest reservoirs.

Mana Pools

Mana Pools is a pristine UNESCO World Heritage site on the Zambezi River, famous for canoe safaris and elephants that stand on their hind…

More places

Zvimba Crop District

A significant area for the production of staple foods.

Fort Martin

A historical fort used during the 1896 uprisings.

Chinhoyi Caves (Historical site)

This limestone cave system once served as a refuge for Chief Chinhoyi against raiders.

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Chinhoyi Cropping Area

A productive farming area in Mashonaland.

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Zimplats Ngezi Mine

A major platinum group metals (PGM) mining operation in the Great Dyke.

Empress Nickel Refinery

A base metal refinery dedicated to processing nickel and copper matte.

Kadoma Cotton Region

Center for cotton processing and agriculture.