The Mutorashanga Green Pools are located in the Great Dyke of Zimbabwe, just over 100 km north of Harare. These striking turquoise pools are the by-product of mining activity that dates back several decades.
The pools were formed from the abandoned Ethel Chromium Mine, which was once a key contributor to Zimbabwe’s chromite production. Chromite, a mineral rich in chromium, was mined extensively in this region. Once mining operations ceased and the pit was no longer maintained, groundwater and rain filled the quarry, creating the deep, still water body now known as the Green Pools.
The mineral-rich composition of the rock and soil is what gives the water its distinct blue-green coloration. While visually stunning, the water is not suitable for irrigation or drinking, and it doesn't support fish or plant life—adding to its eerie beauty and mystique.
Over time, the pools have become a popular spot for photography, picnics, and swimming, despite warnings about their unknown depth and sharp rock edges. The lack of formal tourism infrastructure gives it a raw, untouched charm, often attracting adventurous locals and visitors.
The site is also surrounded by local myths and folklore, with some claiming sightings of mermaids (njuzu), likely influenced by the pool’s surreal appearance. Though unproven, such tales add a spiritual and mysterious layer to the Green Pools’ cultural relevance.
Today, the Mutorashanga Green Pools stand as a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial history—a hidden wonder in Zimbabwe’s landscape.
Solo Adventure: Serenity & Reflection
As a solo traveler, the moment you arrive at the Mutorashanga Green Pools, you're struck by the surreal turquoise water shimmering under the sun—a color so unusual it almost seems otherworldly. The quiet is soothing, broken only by birdsong and the occasional splash as someone dips into the cool water. You take a moment to sit on the rocky edge, the breeze brushing past your face as you take in the stillness. It’s a place to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. Maybe you brought a book, a journal, or just your camera—either way, you're leaving with more peace than you came with.
Couples’ Escape: Romance in the Wild
For couples, it’s an off-the-beaten-path escape filled with raw beauty and intimate moments. As you walk hand-in-hand along the rock edges, you marvel at how undisturbed and private it feels. A picnic blanket is laid out on a flat boulder, your snacks and drinks ready as you dip your feet in the cool water. You take turns posing for photos against the vivid blue-green backdrop, and later, as the sun begins to set, the golden light turns the rocks warm and soft—the perfect golden hour for a romantic moment. It’s a memory you’ll both talk about long after you’ve returned to city life.
Team Outing: Laughter, Bonding & Adventure
Visiting with friends or colleagues turns the pools into a playground of fun and bonding. There’s the shared thrill of jumping into the water, the friendly teasing of who hesitated the longest, and the echo of laughter bouncing off the quarry walls. Some explore the surrounding rock faces, others lounge near the edge taking selfies or preparing lunch. Someone probably brought a Bluetooth speaker, and there’s light music playing as you all enjoy cold drinks under the sun. It's the kind of team-building that doesn’t need an agenda—just nature and good company.
Caution Meets Awe
No matter who you are, there’s also a moment of awe and caution. The depth of the water is unknown, and the edges can be sharp. Locals may share mysterious tales—like the mermaid myths—and whether you believe them or not, they add an air of mystery to an already magical spot. You're aware you’re in a place with a story, and that makes the experience even more special.
Whether you're seeking adventure, peace, or connection, the Mutorashanga Green Pools deliver an experience that's raw, memorable, and refreshingly different—just a couple of hours from Harare, but a world away in atmosphere.
Seasons:
Dry Season (May – October)
Skies: Generally sunny with occasional haze in the early morning.
Daytime temperatures: Around 22–25 °C (72–77 °F).
Evening/morning lows: Cooler nights down to 5–8 °C (41–46 °F).
Ideal for visits: Clear, crisp weather with low humidity—perfect for exploring and spending time outdoors.
Wet Season (November – April)
Weather: Warm and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
Daytime temperatures: Typically between 25–30 °C (77–86 °F).
Rainfall: Most intense during December and January; intermittent showers can occur even in the shoulder months.
Note: Periods of mist and damp trails can make terrain slippery at times.
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By Car (Recommended)
Distance: Approximately 100 km (99–112 km) north of Harare via the Harare–Mutorashanga route
Approximate drive time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Suggested route:
From Harare, take the A13 highway north toward Shamva—it starts from Enterprise Road where there's a Y-junction with the A2
Continue past Shamva, heading toward Mazowe.
At Mapinga, turn off toward Mutorashanga (left turn), entering a gravel road that leads to the town about 100 km from Harare
From Mutorashanga town, ask locals or follow village tracks to reach the Green Pools, located near the old Ethel Mine
By Taxi or Kombi
No direct kombi service to the Green Pools—passengers typically transfer via Nyabira town and then onward to Mutorashanga, which takes up to 1h 50m and may be costly
Recommendation: Arrange for private transport from Harare or park at Nyabira and join a taxi from there.
Travel Tips
Fuel: Ensure you have enough fuel since convenience stations are sparse near Mutorashanga.
Local Guidance: The final stretch toward the pools is unmarked—and locals can provide the best directions from Mutorashanga town
Vehicle type: A standard vehicle is sufficient, though grip tires or an AWD may be helpful if the gravel sections are rough.
Expect no infrastructure: There are no public toilets, shops, or signage at the pools—be prepared and self-sufficient
Mutorashanga Green Pools isn’t just a natural marvel—it’s woven into local folklore and shaped by genuine community interaction, making it a culturally vibrant site beyond its scenic beauty.
Myth, Legend & Local Beliefs
The bright emerald-green hue of the pool fuels imaginative local stories. One persistent legend suggests that mermaids dwell in its depths—and that anyone submerged by them would emerge as a traditional healer. While unverified, these narratives add a mystical layer to the destination.
Community Connection
Visitors often engage with local villagers, who generously share histories, stories, and practical guidance about the site. This welcoming hospitality is a standout feature of the Green Pools experience.
Cultural Performances
Occasionally, guests may witness Nyawo masquerade dances (also called “Zvigure”)—traditional performances involving singing, drumming, and dynamic masked dance. These cultural expressions bring added life and rhythm to the Green Pools atmosphere.
Preservation & Respect
The Green Pools remain largely undeveloped—lacking formal facilities like toilets, shops, or braai stands—a conscious choice to preserve its natural ambiance. Visitors are encouraged to respect the land, leave nothing behind, and treat the site as sacred ground. Locals also caution against activities like drawing water for mining, noting it could diminish the site's tourist and spiritual value.
Experience Highlights
Storytelling & storytelling culture: Engage in conversations with villagers to deepen your understanding of local traditions and beliefs.
Spiritual atmosphere: Whether you believe in legends or not, the sense of mystery and reverence lingers.
Unstructured enjoyment: No paid internals or elaborate attractions—your time at Green Pools is defined by how you experience it.
