Heaven Lodge - Chimanimani National Park
Heaven Lodge is a guesthouse near Chimanimani National Park.
- Location
- Chimanimani National Park, Eastern Highlands, Zimbabwe, Southern Africa
- Coordinates
- -19.805624, 32.879300
- Activities
- guesthouse
PlnrScore: 24/100
Wildlife Near This Lodge
762 species observed within 20 km, 7 mammals, 62 birds.
- Dwarf Savanna Sugarbush (Plantae, 90 observations)
- Wentzels Sugarbush (Plantae, 69 observations)
- Common Protea (Plantae, 60 observations)
- Bee bush (Plantae, 57 observations)
- Escarpment Pincushion (Plantae, 43 observations)
- muzhanje (Plantae, 33 observations)
- Chimanimani Spurflower (Plantae, 33 observations)
- Willow beechwood (Plantae, 29 observations)
- common bracken (Plantae, 28 observations)
- Chimanimani Flat Lizard (Reptilia, 26 observations)
Best Time to Visit Heaven Lodge
The best months to visit Heaven Lodge are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Good, temperature 20.39°C, rainfall 433.1mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 85.6%
- February: Good, temperature 20.52°C, rainfall 310.6mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 83.8%
- March: Good, temperature 19.41°C, rainfall 243.6mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 83.9%
- April: Poor, temperature 17.99°C, rainfall 197.7mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 82.7%
- May: Good, temperature 15.94°C, rainfall 41.8mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 77.3%
- June: Poor, temperature 14.17°C, rainfall 116.5mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 77.7%
- July: Good, temperature 13.56°C, rainfall 59.9mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 74.1%
- August: Good, temperature 15.4°C, rainfall 130.6mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 74.1%
- September: Good, temperature 17.59°C, rainfall 97mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 74.4%
- October: Good, temperature 19.04°C, rainfall 138.5mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 76.9%
- November: Good, temperature 20.36°C, rainfall 246.1mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 79.8%
- December: Good, temperature 20.9°C, rainfall 438.1mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 82.5%
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get to Heaven Lodge from Harare or Bulawayo?
We find that driving yourself offers the most flexibility, though the roads can be rough closer to Chimanimani. Alternatively, we recommend arranging a transfer with the lodge itself; it takes the stress out of navigating and they know the best routes. Expect a journey of around 5-6 hours from Harare, so plan accordingly.
Beyond Chimanimani National Park, what else can we do from Heaven Lodge?
While the park is the main draw, we love exploring the local community and the stunning waterfalls accessible from the lodge grounds. We recommend packing sturdy walking shoes for hikes to Bridal Veil Falls or Musangazhakamwe Falls. The lodge can also arrange visits to local craft markets, offering a glimpse into Zimbabwean culture.
What kind of wildlife can we realistically expect to see near Heaven Lodge?
Chimanimani National Park isn't about big game in the same way as Hwange, but we adore its unique montane ecosystem. We recommend keeping an eye out for samango monkeys, klipspringers, and a dazzling array of birdlife, including the rare Taita Falcon. The real magic here is the landscape itself, with its ancient forests and dramatic rock formations.
What should we pack for a stay at Heaven Lodge, especially considering its location?
We always pack layers for Heaven Lodge, as the mountain climate can be unpredictable. Think warm fleeces for cool evenings and light rain gear, even in the dry season. Don't forget insect repellent, sunscreen, a good hat, and of course, your camera to capture the sensational sunsets.
Is Heaven Lodge suitable for families, and what are the typical costs involved?
We think Heaven Lodge offers a wonderful, slightly more rustic adventure for families willing to explore. While it's not a resort, the guesthouse atmosphere is welcoming. Costs are generally reasonable, focusing on accommodation and meals, but we advise contacting the lodge directly for the most up-to-date pricing and to discuss specific family needs.