Chirinda Forest

Chirinda is a patch of Afromontane rainforest of about 950 hectares on Mount Selinda, some 30 kilometres south of Chipinge, generally described as the southernmost tropical rainforest on the African continent. Its best-known tree is the Big Tree in the Valley of the Giants, the largest red mahogany in southern Africa and the tallest native tree in Zimbabwe, estimated at 600 to 1,000 years old. The forest holds species and birds found nowhere else in Zimbabwe, and paths run through it from the road.

What you'll find

• The Big Tree - the largest red mahogany in southern Africa, centuries old.
• The rainforest - the southernmost tropical forest on the continent.
• The endemic species - plants and birds found nowhere else in the country.
• The forest paths - marked routes through the reserve from the road.

When to go

April to October is the dry season and best for the paths. The forest is wet and humid year round. Mornings are best for birds.

Practical notes

The reserve is small and encroachment on its edges is a continuing problem. Paths are muddy and poorly marked. Facilities are minimal.

Nearby

Chipinge is north, and Chimanimani is northeast.

Key facts