Chinhoyi Caves
A limestone cave system northwest of Harare holding a pool of intensely blue water far below ground.
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The Chinhoyi caves are a dolomite system northwest of Harare whose main feature is the Sleeping Pool, also called Chirorodziva, a body of water about ninety metres deep sitting under a collapsed chamber, coloured an intense cobalt blue by the light coming through the opening above. A stepped path descends to a viewing platform at the water, and divers have explored the connected passages to considerable depth.
What you actually see
- The Sleeping Pool - a deep blue pool about ninety metres deep under the collapse.
- The colour - the cobalt blue produced by light through the opening above.
- The descent - the stepped path down to the water from the surface.
- The dive site - the connected passages explored by divers to great depth.
When to go
April to October is the dry season. Midday light gives the strongest blue. Weekends bring local visitors.
Honest expectations
The colour depends on the light and is much less striking on a dull day. The descent is steep with many steps. Swimming is restricted and diving requires arrangement.
Nearby
Chinhoyi is nearby, and Lake Kariba is northwest.
What to pack for Chinhoyi Caves
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
