Chimanimani National Park (Mozambique)
Chimanimani National Park is a protected area next to Chimoio, capital of Manica Province in Mozambique. It is located in the Chimanimani Mountains on the border with Zimbabwe. Together with Zimbabwe's Chimanimani National Park, it forms the Chimanimani Transfrontier Park. It was designated a national reserve in 2003. In 2020 it was designated a national park.
Geography
With an area of 656 km2, the park protects the Mozambican portion of the Chimanimani Mountains, including Monte Binga, Mozambique's highest peak. The park has a larger buffer zone, which extends into lower-elevation areas to the south, east, and north, and includes the Moribane, Mpunga, Maronga, and Zomba forest reserves. The Moribane, Mpunga, and Maronga forest reserves were established in 1953.
Flora and fauna
The park contains rare species such as the red-capped robin-chat and the Welwitsch's bat.
Culture
The locals preserve the cave paintings, ancient traditions and beliefs, all of which give the park a cultural identity.
Access
The park can be reached from the city of Chimoio. The park has several road connections with the north, south and central parts of Mozambique, as well as with Zimbabwe.