Things To Do
in Rusape

Rusape is a small town in Zimbabwe, located in the Manicaland province. Known for its rich agricultural lands and vibrant community, it serves as a commercial hub for the surrounding rural areas. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including hills and valleys that offer scenic views.

Rusape also has a rich cultural heritage, making it an interesting destination for both locals and travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Rusape
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for local produce.

afternoon
:

Visit the Rusape Dam for a relaxing afternoon of birdwatching and scenic walks around the water.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Zimbabwean dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike in the nearby Nyanga Mountains for stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.

afternoon
:

Explore local art galleries and craft shops to learn about the culture and artistry of Zimbabwe.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance or live music event to enjoy the local entertainment scene.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-10
🚌Local bus fare$1
🥤Bottle of water$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$30-50
🛒Groceries for a week$20-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes with opportunities for outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Some areas may lack modern amenities.
  • Communication barriers may arise due to language differences.
  • "Mhoroi" - Hello
  • "Ndatenda" - Thank you
  • "Unofara here?" - Are you happy?
  • "Ndiri kufara" - I am happy
  • "Tiri kuona" - We are watching

Places to Visit in Rusape

Visit one of these nice places.

Rusape Dam

A picturesque spot perfect for capturing stunning sunset views and reflections on the water.

Chimanimani Mountains

Scenic mountain ranges that offer breathtaking views and opportunities for landscape photography.

Local Markets

Vibrant scenes filled with colorful produce and local crafts, ideal for capturing the essence of daily life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Rusape

Rusape offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of Zimbabwean cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Rusape Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sadza

A staple food made from maize meal, often served with vegetable relishes or meat.

Must-Try!

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat, typically served with a side of sadza and a spicy sauce.

Muriwo Unedovi

A delicious dish of leafy greens cooked with peanut butter.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rusape Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, snacks, and local delicacies.

Street Vendors

Various street vendors sell samosas, grilled meats, and other quick bites at affordable prices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Rusape experiences a subtropical highland climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are warm, with average temperatures around 30°C (86°F), while winters can drop to around 10°C (50°F) at night. The rainy season typically runs from November to March, bringing heavy showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake is customary; greeting people by saying 'Mhoroi' (hello) is appreciated.

Respect for Elders

Elders are respected in the community; it's polite to greet them first in social settings.

Dress Modestly

Dressing conservatively is encouraged, especially in rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Rusape is generally considered safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, and keep valuables secure. It's advisable to stay informed about local conditions and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Rusape

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some places may accept mobile payments; it's advisable to carry local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (Dec-Feb)

Expect hot temperatures and occasional rain; perfect for outdoor activities but be prepared for sudden showers.

Autumn (Mar-May)

Milder temperatures with beautiful foliage; great for hiking and exploring nature.

Winter (Jun-Aug)

Cooler temperatures, especially at night; ideal for cultural experiences as locals gather indoors.

Spring (Sep-Nov)

Warm weather with blooming flowers, making it a lovely time to visit parks and gardens.

Nightlife Guide

Rusape at Night

Rusape's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few bars and restaurants offering live music and social gatherings. Most venues close early, around midnight. The locals enjoy socializing over drinks in informal settings, making it a friendly atmosphere for visitors.

Hiking in Rusape

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Nyanga National Park

Offers a range of hiking trails with stunning views, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Chimanimani Mountains

Known for challenging hikes and breathtaking scenery, perfect for adventurous trekkers.

Airports

How to reach Rusape by plane.

Mutare Airport

Approximately 50 km from Rusape, this small airport offers limited flights and serves as the nearest major air travel point.

Getting Around

Walkability

Rusape is relatively walkable, with most amenities located within a short distance from each other. Sidewalks are available in most areas, and the town is flat, making it easy to explore on foot. However, be cautious of vehicle traffic, especially in busier streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Shona People

The majority ethnic group in the region, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Various Minority Groups

Includes various smaller ethnic communities contributing to the cultural diversity of Rusape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular among locals, with many playing in schools and community teams.

Cricket

Cricket has a growing following, with local matches often drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Rusape is generally light, with most transportation consisting of buses, taxis, and private vehicles. Public transportation is accessible, but schedules may be irregular. Walking is a viable option for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Rusape.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, such as vegetable stews and salads.

Gluten-Free

Sadza is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are available in Rusape, including clinics and a local hospital. However, for more serious medical issues, travelers may need to go to larger cities like Mutare. It's advisable to have travel insurance and carry necessary medications.

Discover Zimbabwe

Read more in our Zimbabwe 2025 Travel Guide.

Zimbabwe Travel Guide