Mare Dam Lodges

BY Costa Mano

Famed for its delicious trout fish, Nyanga is a haven for those escaping the hustle and bustle of the city life and in its serenity are the Mare Dame Lodges.

The lodges are found at the Nyanga National Park, 267 kilometres east of Harare.

Sixteen unique Lodges offer the perfect base to stay while discovering the wonders of Nyanga. Each of the lodge has two bedrooms, bathroom, spacious lounge with fire place and a brilliant view of the “queen” of Nyanga’s dams, Mare Dam.

These are self-catering lodges with basic amenities available offering that home away from home thrill.

The classic Dover stove gives the kitchen a nostalgic air of the days gone by. Electric stoves are available for those who do not fancy old style cooking.

The reservoir was formed after the damming of Mare River. Mare Dam is located within close proximity to two other dams, Purdon and Gulliver as well as Mount Inyangani - the highest point in Zimbabwe, Trout Hatchery, Old Forts and historic pit structures and the Rhodes Museum.

The most popular activity at Mare is trout fishing. The dam is filled with trout offering an easy challenge to all fishermen. Visitors can also catch easy prey at the Trout Hatchery ponds.

Boating is another popular activity at Mare with boats being hired at the tourist office. Holiday makers can either paddle themselves crazy at Mare or Gulliver.

Another way of discovering the therapeutic beauty of Nyanga is by hiking on the rather challenging terrain.

There are also historical visits to war time forts dotted around the area, pit structures and Rhodes Museum.

Visitors can go on game drives and see Nyanga’s wildlife which includes Waterbuck, Wildebeest (Gnu), Impala, Blue Duiker, Warthogs among a varied choice.

Even just relaxing in your lodge with a good book is quite a calming experience.

The lodges are owned by the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority and run by Guinewine Investments, a registered tour company.