Manicaland (previously Umtali provence)

Manicaland: Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands

Nestled along Zimbabwe’s eastern border with Mozambique, Manicaland Province is a region of dramatic contrasts, defined by sweeping mountain ranges, fertile agricultural valleys, and a rich cultural heritage.

Covering around 36,400 square kilometers, the province serves as the geographic heart of Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands. Its landscape is dominated by the majestic Nyanga Mountains—home to Mount Nyangani, the highest peak in the country—as well as the lush timber plantations of Chimanimani and the dramatic gorges of the Bvumba Mountains.

Beyond its natural beauty, Manicaland is historically and economically vital:

• Agriculture & Industry: The province's high altitude and abundant rainfall create an ideal climate for growing tea, coffee, deciduous fruits, and timber, alongside extensive maize and tobacco farming.
• Cultural Roots: Named after the indigenous Manyika people, the province has a deep historical identity rooted in Shona culture, traditional leadership, and the resistance movements of the colonial era.
• Biodiversity & Tourism: Protected areas like the Nyanga and Chimanimani National Parks offer world-class hiking, trout fishing, and diverse wildlife viewing, making it one of the country's premier scenic destinations.

Centered around the provincial capital of Mutare—historically known as Umtali—Manicaland remains a vital economic and cultural pillar of modern Zimbabwe.