I’ve never been to Domboshava at night. In fact, on both visits to the hill, I left at sunset. But I imagine that on a quiet summer night, if you were to sit still on the rocks, close your eyes, and really listen…I mean reaaaaallly listen, you might hear a beating drum, its echo reverberating across millennia. On the wind, you might sense an ethereal voice, singing long-forgotten songs in a long-forgotten language. Perhaps you would see the glow of fires in the caves, warming their ancient inhabitants. The sound of bare feet hitting the ground in time with the music. Maybe you would even smell the beer, painstakingly brewed and fermented under the African sun, being poured onto the earth to appease the ancestors.
If you closed your eyes and listened, maybe, just maybe…you would hear the magic of a rainmaking ceremony.
These are the thoughts that fill my mind as I sit down to write about the mysterious, sacred, and beautiful monument that is Domboshava. A site that has witnessed numerous traditional ceremonies over the centuries, including rainmaking rituals.
One of my favourite things about Zimbabwean destinations is the mystique and history tied to each place. In Zimbabwe, a pool such as the Sleeping Pool at the Chinhoyi caves is not just a pool. A mountain such as Mount Inyangani is not just a mountain. And a river is often much more than just a river.
Domboshava is no different. The Domboshava Caves are steeped in history, dating back thousands of years. The area’s unique blend of spirituality, history, art, and outdoor adventure makes it the perfect low-budget destination to visit with family, friends, or your special someone.
A Brief History of Domboshava
The origin of the name Domboshava is not known for certain. The word “Dombo”, in the local language, means “rock”. Shava in this context may have two meanings: A local clan, who are of the eland totem known as Vashava claim the area surrounding Domboshava. Some believe the name originates from this clan. Others believe the name Domboshava refers to the light colour of the rock. So, the name Domboshava could be interpreted as either “rock of the eland clan” or “light brown rock.”
One cannot speak of Domboshava without mentioning the ancient rock art found in one of the caves. The paintings are absolutely astounding, depicting ancient civilisations that lived over 6,000 years ago. The area in the past and at present has held great cultural and spiritual significance, acting as a sacred land where ancient peoples sought to communicate with their gods and ancestors. Oftentimes this was done through rain-making ceremonies, and many other spiritual rites and ceremonies.
Getting to Domboshva
Domboshava is located about 35 km from Harare, roughly an hour’s drive from the city centre. However, it may take longer due to the poor state of the roads. While there has been some roadwork in the area, on both of my visits (spaced six months apart), there hadn’t been much visible progress. Expect a dust road with a small strip of jagged tar in the middle. Particularly as you get closer to the caves.
However, this does not mean you can’t get to the area with a low clearance vehicle. I’ve done it twice already. So where there is a will, there is a way. But if you have access to a high clearance vehicle, that will definitely make for a much smoother ride.
Entrance Fees:
Locals:
Adults: $4
Children (6-12): $1
International Visitors
Adults: $10
Children: $5
Attractions at Domboshava
Domboshava is perfect for a low-key, low-cost date or family day out.
When you arrive at the entrance, you come across an “information centre” of sorts which describes the history of the area, its natural, cultural and spiritual significance.
Like many Zim Parks facilities, it hasn’t been updated in a while. But it’s still valuable insight that will help you appreciate the place more deeply and give you the correct context and frame of reference to fully understand what you are seeing.
The Hike
The Domboshava Hill makes for a nice 1 – 2-hour hike, depending on your pace. It is quite an easy hike, and I believe all fitness levels should be able to tackle it without too much trouble. As you will find on many hiking trails in the country, there are arrows painted on the rocks to guide you on your way, so there is really no need for a guide.
Along the way, you will come across spots with gorgeous viewpoints overlooking the surrounding landscape. You can take scenic photos for the gram, or simply sit for a while, relax, and enjoy the view.
Pro tip: Stay hydrated!
The Rock art
A highlight of Domboshava is the rock art found in the caves. These cave paintings are thousands of years old and depict the lives and societies of ancient peoples.
I can say with certainty that looking at this art is a truly humbling experience. If you take a moment and consider the hands that painted the art, hands that existed long before Picasso, centuries before the pyramids, long before many of what we now call “ancient civilisations” even existed, well, that should give you pause, and maybe even fill you with awe.
The paintings are a must-see!! If you go to Domboshava and don’t see the cave paintings…did you even go!?
A picnic at the summit
It always gives me a sense of satisfaction whenever I finally reach the beacon that marks the summit of a hill or mountain. And what better way to enjoy the achievement than by sitting down for a picnic as you watch the beautiful sunset?
Bring some drinks, sandwiches, and a blanket, and you are all set for the most beautiful conclusion to a day of peaceful adventure (I know that sounds like an oxymoron, but it encapsulates the nature of a Domboshava hike very well!)
Other activities/attractions include:
- Braai and picnic area
- Natural pools during the rainy season.
- Balancing rocks
- Guided tour of “Chikomo Chevaroyi” (Witch’s Hill)
Tips for Your Visit
Bring water for the hike and comfortable shoes!
Keep your wits about you. Although I never felt unsafe, it’s best to be aware of your surroundings.
Be open-minded. You might encounter some very interesting characters. On one visit, we saw a shirtless man doing what looked like a spiritual sun-salutation workout.
Be prepared to encounter worshippers, especially from apostolic sects, performing religious rites. Be respectful and you will be fine.
There is parking right outside the entrance. We had no issues, but always lock up and keep valuables out of sight
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, affordable day trip from Harare, Domboshava is an ideal destination. With its rich history, stunning views, ancient rock art, and spiritual energy, it offers something truly unique.
