Hiking through the majestic misty mountains

Imagine standing at the base of a towering mountain, surrounded by a mystical and ethereal mist. The air is crisp and fresh, inviting you to embark on an adventure of a lifetime. This is the allure of hiking through the mountains of the mist.

When I first set foot on the trail, I was immediately captivated by the natural beauty that unfolded before me. The mist hugged the trees, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that felt a world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It was as if I had entered a dream.

As I ascended higher, with each step I took, the mist grew thicker, enveloping me in its mysterious embrace. The trail led me through dense forests, where the sunlight struggled to penetrate the canopy above. It felt as though I was walking through a hidden oasis, untouched by time.

The sound of cascading waterfalls echoed in the distance, adding to the symphony of nature that enveloped me. The mist danced with the sun’s rays, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow. It was a sight that words could not do justice.

With every turn, a new vista awaited me. The mountains stretched as far as the eye could see, their peaks disappearing into the heavens. It was a humbling sight that reminded me of the vastness and grandeur of the natural world.

Trekking through the misty mountains was not without its challenges. The terrain was rugged and steep, demanding endurance and perseverance. But with each obstacle I overcame, I felt a renewed sense of accomplishment and a deeper connection with nature.

At night, as I settled into my tent, the mist enveloped the campsite, creating an intimate and tranquil atmosphere. The stars above shone brightly, unaffected by the mist that blanketed the valley below. It was a moment of serenity, a moment of pure bliss.

The hike through the mountains of the mist taught me many things. It taught me to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and to find solace in its embrace. It taught me the importance of pushing beyond my limits and embracing the unknown. And above all, it taught me the power of nature to nourish the soul and awaken a sense of wonder.

So if you’re looking for an adventure that will leave you breathless, look no further than hiking through the majestic misty mountains. It will be an experience you’ll never forget.

The Vumba Mountains take their name from the Shona word for mist or drizzle. It was a true delight for me to be invited to explore the Vumba Trail in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe – I couldn’t wait to escape from the difficulties of cash and fuel shortage in Harare. Little did I know that our second day of the four-day trek through the renowned ‘Mountains of the Mist’ would pose a greater challenge than I had anticipated. The scorching October heat made it even more difficult as we made our way across Blue Swallow Ridge.

The first day had been just as hot, but we found relief in an icy stream above Zebra Falls after a breathtaking hike along a shaded ridge adorned with beautiful msasa trees, resonating with the chorus of vibrant cicadas. We had the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in Zonwe Dam and set up our tents along its tranquil shoreline, marveling at the mesmerizing dance of fireflies.

When you wake up at the Zonwe Dam campsite, it’s common to hear the calls of Narina trogons and African broadbills. The second day was tough, with a challenging seven-and-a-half kilometer hike up and out of the Zonwe Valley to reach the Vumba Botanical Garden before breakfast. We then continued west through farmlands and plantations to where we currently stood.

However, there weren’t many cisticolas moving around, and we couldn’t spot the mist-loving blue swallows that give the ridge its name. Curious about the differences between the Vumba and the Alps, I asked fellow hiker, Willemijn Ruettimann, a Dutch physiotherapist living in Switzerland. She replied, ‘The steep parts aren’t a problem for me, I’m used to that. It’s the heat that’s getting to me!’

As I trekked 19 kilometers that day, I finally arrived at Hurukuru, a guest house nestled in a magnificent garden at the base of the Zohwe Range. The owner, Peter Buttress, had just finished sharing a fascinating story about a red-capped robin-chat that could mimic the call of a crowned eagle. Suddenly, a fierce storm erupted. Hailstones, the size of golf balls, pounded the earth, and within 45 minutes, over 38 millimeters of rain poured down. The storm brought a refreshing coolness to the Zonwe Valley, and the air was filled with the chorus of yellow-spotted tree frogs. Their peculiar bleating and whirring created a surreal atmosphere, resembling aliens engaged in hushed conversation.

When I embarked on the Vumba Trail, the mist was still heavy in the air. As we started hiking up the Zohwe Range the next morning, I couldn’t help but marvel at the magnificent granite ridge, covered with lush evergreen forest, that extended towards Mozambique. This ridge is the heart of the Vumba.

Our trek towards the cloud forest led us through a forest filled with peculiar spiny tree ferns. As we made our way, the melodious songs of bush-shrikes and ground thrushes filled the misty treetops above us. To our delight, we discovered the unique tongue-shaped leaves of the forest dracaenas – small shrubs that are popular nesting spots for the Swynnerton’s robin. It’s one of the many fascinating bird species that attract South African birdwatchers to the captivating Vumba hills. It’s no wonder that the Vumba, also known as Bvumba, has earned the distinction of being recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area by BirdLife International.

“Wow, this place is amazing!” That’s what I thought when I first set foot on the Vumba Trail. I listened as veteran mountaineer, Tempe van de Ruit, described it as “the world as it should be.” That really got me excited. After all, who wouldn’t be intrigued by a place that’s been perfected over two years by an expert guide like Stewart Chiurawa?

The Vumba Trail covers an impressive 68 kilometers and is situated in Vumba and Chimanimani. It’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts, featuring breathtaking views, challenging climbs, and a chance to disconnect from our busy lives and reconnect with the great outdoors.

One of the things that truly sets the Vumba Trail apart is the sheer beauty of its surroundings. Everywhere you look, there’s something awe-inspiring to behold. From rolling hills to cascading waterfalls, this place is a feast for the eyes.

But it’s not just about the scenery. The Vumba Trail offers a range of routes to suit all levels of experience and ability. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there’s something for everyone. And with the guidance of an expert like Stewart Chiurawa, you can feel confident knowing that you’re in safe hands.

As I embarked on the Vumba Trail, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and adventure. Each step brought me closer to nature, and with every breath, I felt more alive. It was an experience like no other.

So, if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable outdoor adventure, look no further than the Vumba Trail. Trust me, this is a journey you won’t want to miss.

I’m standing on the edge of the Bunga Forest, at a place called Bunga Views, on the Vumba Mountains. The view is breathtaking, with greenery stretching out as far as the eye can see. Ryan Truscott captured this image perfectly.

Tempe is right. He knows that the Vumba has its share of problems too. As I walk along the trail, I notice patches of land that have been cleared for agricultural purposes. The montane forest, which is a home to unique wildlife like samango monkeys, blue duikers, and Marshall’s pygmy chameleons, is being destroyed. It’s disheartening. In addition, the fields left abandoned and the empty homesteads are evidence of the difficult times this country has been through with farm evictions and economic struggles that seem never-ending.

However, I can’t help but feel a sense of hope as I continue on this hike. The creation of this new hiking trail shows a belief, a faith if you will, that ecotourism can make a difference. It’s a way to boost conservation efforts and foster a greater love and respect for these beautiful hills. It’s a step towards preserving the natural wonders of the Vumba Mountains.

When you visit Lion Rock, standing tall at 1,720 meters, you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of Lower Vumba and even Mozambique. The mist sometimes adds a mysterious touch to the scenery, making it all the more enchanting. Ryan Truscott captured this magical image for us to enjoy.

Now, let’s talk about the fitness factor of this place. I would give it an 8 out of 10. You have the option to do day hikes along certain parts of the trail. However, I must warn you that even the easier sections are quite steep. So, be prepared for a bit of a challenge. If you’re lucky enough to have a backup driver, they can assist you by transporting your heavy gear by road.

The verdict? I can guarantee that you will fall head over heels for the chittering sounds of samango monkeys, the grandeur of Albizia trees, and the sparkling streams that grace this trail. It’s a sensory delight that will leave a lasting impression.

Now, let’s talk about the cost. It varies depending on your choice of accommodation. If you prefer the comfort of a roof over your head, the price will be different from camping under the twinkling stars. On average, you can expect to pay around R1,000 for two nights of camping and a night at Hurukuru. This includes a guide and a map to make your adventure more enjoyable.

If you’re ready to embark on this memorable journey, the details are as follows: you can book and get more information through the Friends of the Vumba Facebook page. Just search for friendsofthevumba and you’re on your way!