Chinhoyi Caves
A collapsed cave in dolomite, with a pool of clear blue water at the bottom. Divers have gone down more than 100 metres.
The Pool of the Fallen
The roof of a large chamber collapsed here and left an open shaft known as the Wonder Hole. At the bottom lies the Sleeping Pool, whose water is very clear and looks deep blue.
The traditional name, Chirorodziva, is usually translated as the Pool of the Fallen. It recalls a 19th-century raid in which people were thrown into the pool.
Chinhoyi Caves at a glance
- Location
- 8 km north-west of Chinhoyi, about 120 km from Harare
- Rock
- dolomite and limestone
- Main feature
- Sleeping Pool
- Water temperature
- about 22 °C all year
- Explored depth
- more than 100 m
- Local name
- Chirorodziva
- Status
- recreational park
- Time needed
- 1–2 hours
Two ways down
A sloping passage leads from the surface to the edge of the pool. A second route goes through the Dark Cave, a lit tunnel with steps, to a viewpoint above the water.
The pool stays at about 22 °C throughout the year.
Chinhoyi Caves in figures
Before you go
Getting there
The park is beside the main road from Harare to Chirundu and Kariba, about two hours from Harare.
On the visit
The paths have many steps and can be slippery. No guide is needed for the main routes.
Good to know
Swimming is not allowed. Diving requires advanced cave-diving training and permission from the park.
Opening times, access rules and prices change. Confirm them before you travel: zimparks.org.zw.
