A Participatory documenting of tourist attractions and activities in selected protected areas in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe: Stories, journeys and challenges

Abstract

The paper seeks to document different tourist attractions, related activities and the associated historical and climatic conditions in the Chimanimani National Park, Vumba Botanical Garden and Bunga Botanical Reserve. In this survey data was collected through document analysis (Printed and electronic literature), key stakeholders’ engagement (face-to-face with local tourism players and guides) and through field surveys which were conducted from 30 March 2023 to 31 July 2024. Quantitative data collected was analysed using statistical methods in Microsoft Excel and presented as tables and graphs. Several attractions and related activities recorded include endemic species, rock climbing, hiking, rock paintings, cultural/sacred sites, waterfalls and springs, caves and cave exploration, camping and picnicking and guided walks. Gardens and wedding venues were found in Vumba while rock climbing and hiking are dominant in Chimanimani. The three protected areas provide a unique micro-climate different from the rest of the country favourable for outdoor activities. There is need to improve connectivity and update information about the attractions as well as directional arrows to each specific attraction for clients’ benefit.