The Chinhoyi Caves previously known as Sinoia Caves are a group of limestone and dolomite caves in Zimbabwe. Designated a National Park in 1955 and managed by the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority.
A wonder hole , is the main feature of the cave which is in fact a “swallow hole” or a large cavern with a collapsed roof. The walls of the wonder hole drop vertically down for 150 feet to the sleeping pool in which our adrenaline junkies normally use for Scuba Diving. The pool is unbelievably blue and crystal clear which reflects great depth of non-flowing water.
Chinhoyi is the capital town of Mashonaland West Province, one of the ten administrative provinces in Zimbabwe. It is also the district headquarters of Makonde District, one of the six districts in the province.
It is located 115 km away from Harare and interestingly close to Mazvikadei dam and along the route to Kariba dam. A pretty good way to kill 2 birds with one stone.
Chinhoyi caves represent an ancient set of caves that were used as a hideout during tribal wars. It has tunnels leading from one cave to another and all lead to the main cave where the roof is open.
No one knows how deep the main pool is. It has an incredible blue colour and National Parks have kept it clean and natural so you can see beautiful fish in the still waters.
Guests can take advantage of the braai area outdoors, where they have the option to bring their own food or visit Chinhoyi Caves Motel for a delightful lunch or dinner. The motel also features an excellent bar that offers a variety of local drinks, providing guests with a chance to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Whether opting to bring their own meal or dine at the motel, guests are sure to appreciate the warm hospitality and scenic beauty of the area, making for a memorable dining experience.
The pool within the caves is referred to as the Sleeping Pool because of the stagnant water, and the Light Pool because the light from the sun beams directly into the blue water.
During our journey to Kariba Dam with Afronomads, we made a memorable stop at the captivating Chinhoyi Caves. While there, we marveled at the natural beauty of the caves and took the opportunity to capture stunning photographs. However, our visit was not limited to just viewing and photography. We also immersed ourselves in the rich history and geological significance of the caves, learning about their formation and unique features. Exploring the caves provided us with a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of Zimbabwe, and it was a truly enriching experience that added depth to our travel adventure with Afronomads.
In an exciting development, two lions have recently been introduced to the area, with plans to bring in two more in the near future. The decision to introduce lions to this renowned tourist destination aims to elevate the wildlife experience for visitors. While the Chinhoyi Caves are already a popular attraction, the addition of lions is set to draw even more interest from tourists seeking a well-rounded wildlife encounter. This initiative is expected to enrich visitors’ experiences, allowing them to not only appreciate the natural beauty of the caves but also partake in thrilling game viewing opportunities. By introducing these majestic predators to the area, guests can now look forward to a more immersive and diverse exploration of the region’s natural wonders, creating lasting memories and deepening their connection with Zimbabwe’s captivating wildlife.”
The brief moments we spent exploring the caves left a lasting impression on me. The intricate formations and mysterious atmosphere of the caves captivated my senses, making it a truly enriching experience.
As I stood in awe of the natural wonders surrounding me, I felt a sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty of the world we live in. Checking off this adventure from my bucket list not only brought me joy but also reminded me of the importance of embracing new experiences and exploring the unknown.
Stay tuned for the upcoming installment as we delve deeper into our exploration of Kariba Dam. Get ready to uncover the hidden gems, breathtaking views, and unique experiences that await us in this remarkable destination.
Pharmacist Globe-Trotter 
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