Birthday Blessings & A Day at Mukuvisi Woodlands

Before we jump into today’s adventure, I want to pause and send heartfelt birthday blessings to my sister, Denise. Today—December 12, 2025—is not only her 66th birthday but also the day this blog goes live. 💐 If she had it her way, I’m sure Denise would be right back in Zimbabwe or South Africa with Wayne and me, soaking up that beautiful African sun.

Walking through life with Denise has been a road filled with lessons, laughter, challenges, and triumphs. As the last two remaining of our four siblings, our bond carries a depth that only shared history can truly create. On this special day, I speak blessings over her life: may joy overflow, may favor follow her, and may God’s light continue to guide her wherever she goes.

Denise is more than my only and eldest sister—she’s someone I’ve admired, leaned on, and loved dearly for as long as I can remember. We’ve supported one another through every season, offering strength, prayer, and encouragement when needed most.

As we step into a new chapter of travel, growth, and exploration, I pray for God’s everlasting covering and protection over her life. Happy 66th Birthday, Sis!

I digress—now let’s return to the journey at hand.

Discovering Mukuvisi

Just when we thought we’d already experienced our “once-in-a-lifetime moment” for the day, the Mukuvisi Woodlands Nature Reserve unexpectedly surprised us. Located only a few kilometers from downtown Harare, Mukuvisi Woodlands is a 263-hectare haven of miombo forest, grassland, and wetlands that feels worlds away from the city’s energy. Established in 1980, this urban sanctuary is home to giraffe, zebra, impala, and more than 300 bird species—an ideal place to experience Zimbabwe’s natural beauty without ever leaving the capital.

Whether you’re walking or cycling one of its scenic trails, joining a guided safari, or simply relaxing at the café while watching wildlife from the viewing platform, Mukuvisi blends conservation, education, and recreation in a way that reminds you just how vital green spaces are to city life.

The Ticket Twist

After a delightful Harare city tour, our Zimbabwean sister Margaret suggested we visit the Nature Reserve. Excited, we all agreed and made our way there, thinking it would be as simple as parking and paying at the gate.

Not quite.

The security guard politely asked for our pre-purchased tickets—tickets we didn’t realize we needed. One glance at our puzzled expressions said everything. Margaret quickly explained that we were visiting from abroad and hadn’t known about the advance-ticket rule. She hoped they might make an exception. The guard couldn’t promise anything, but he kindly allowed us through the gate to speak with the attendants. And that’s when the morning took a magical turn.

Beauty at the Gate

While Margaret inquired inside, Wayne and I waited near the entrance, immediately greeted by the charm of nature—playful monkeys, curious birds, and even a few emus wandering nearby.

Then I saw something unforgettable: the Grey Crowned Crane.

Tall, elegant, and crowned with a shimmering halo of golden feathers, this magnificent bird stood in the sun like it was posing for royalty. The first time I’d seen one was in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and encountering it again here in Zimbabwe felt like a gift.

Fun Fact:

The Grey Crowned Crane is Uganda’s national bird and appears on its flag and coat of arms. It’s celebrated across Africa for its graceful dances and distinctive, bugling calls.

As we watched from the gate, the tall grasses, lush trees, and glimpses of wildlife behind the fence made Mukuvisi feel like a true urban oasis—vibrant, peaceful, and beautifully cared for.

When Plans Change

A few minutes later, Margaret returned with a gentle smile but disappointing news:
They couldn’t bend the rules. Without advance tickets, we wouldn’t be able to enter.

It was bittersweet. This was our final day in Harare before heading to the village to meet more family, and we had hoped for one more adventure. Still, we promised ourselves that one day, we’d come back to walk its trails and see Mukuvisi up close.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever been this close to visiting a place, only for plans to change at the last minute?
Or maybe you’ve explored Mukuvisi Woodlands Nature Reserve yourself—was it worth the visit? We’d love to hear your experience in the comments below!

Traveler’s Notes: Mukuvisi Woodlands Nature Reserve

🌍 Location: Hillside Road, Harare (≈ 7 km from city center)
📏 Size: 263 hectares of forest, grassland & wetland
🏛 Established: 1980 | Managed by Mukuvisi Woodlands Association
⏰ Hours: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. daily
💵 Entry Fees:
Adults ≈ US $6
Children (5–12) ≈ $5
Under 5: Free
Pensioners 65+: Free
🚶🏾 Activities: Walking & cycling trails (3–10 km), guided safaris, birdwatching (300+ species), horseback rides, café & gift shop
📅 Best Time to Visit: Morning for wildlife; Aug–Oct for prime birding
🐾 Wildlife Spotting: Giraffe, zebra, eland, impala, wildebeest, Grey Crowned Crane 🪶
💡 Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to avoid surprises like ours 😉

What’s Next

Our next adventure takes us deeper into Zimbabwe—to a family reunion, a visit with Unc, and a peek inside a traditional Zimbabwean kitchen. It was nothing like I expected…

Stay tuned!