Chinhoyi

Chinhoyi is the capital of Mashonaland West Province, located 120 km north-west of Harare on the A1 highway to Zambia. The town is best known for the Chinhoyi Caves, a spectacular limestone cave system featuring the Sleeping Pool, a deep, cobalt-blue underground pool of exceptional clarity. The caves are one of Zimbabwe's most popular natural attractions. Chinhoyi is also an agricultural and transport centre.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Harare (HRE, 120 km south-east, 1.5 hours).

By Train

No passenger train service.

By Car / Road

Chinhoyi is 120 km north-west of Harare on the A1 (1.5 hours). Minibus kombis from Harare's 4th Street Terminal run frequently, fare approximately US$2–3.

The town is walkable. A taxi or car is needed for the caves (10 km from town).

• Chinhoyi Caves: A limestone cave system with a main cavern (the Sleeping Pool) at 60 m depth — ideal for diving. Entry US$10.

• Cave tour: Guided walk through the caves with dramatic lighting effects.

• Diving (advanced only): The Sleeping Pool is a renowned freshwater cave-diving site.

• Chinhoyi Hotel restaurant: Zimbabwean staples.
• Roadside cafes: Snacks and takeaways.

Bottled water is recommended.

• Chinhoyi Hotel: Basic rooms from US$25–40.
• Guesthouses: Several options (US$20–35).

Basic supplies in Chinhoyi town.

• Kariba (200 km north-west, 2.5 hours) — Lake Kariba resort.
• Mana Pools National Park (300 km north, 4 hours) — Unesco World Heritage Site.
• Harare (120 km south-east, 1.5 hours) — the capital.
• Chirundu (180 km north, 2.5 hours) — border with Zambia.