What to Prepare
Roads
Wayside Cottages is situated just off the main highways two lane tarred road from Skyline to Chimanimani Village. Ease of access to the Wayside/Magamba Conference Centre whatever the weather, including during the rain season.
Toiletries
Sheets, towels, soap, shampoo and conditioner are provided and the cottages are serviced regularly. You should bring your own toothpaste.
Electricity
Zimbabwe suffers from frequent blackouts so it is recommended that you bring a torch/headlamp along with spare batteries . We have a constant supply of solar energy providing reliable hot water and electricity to our cottages.
Catering
All cottages are self-catering, providing access to a kitchen equipped with cooking utensils, stove & oven, microwave and fridge freezer. Bring your favourite food and drink as the village will only provide the necessities and local cuisine. Breakfast and other meals are available on request.
Mosquitoes (and other insects)
Malaria is transmitted by mosquitos that predominantly feed between dusk and dawn. Awareness and bite avoidant steps are recommended. Travelers should follow ABCD guide to preventing Malaria. Risk depends on specific location, season of travel, length of stay, activities and type of accommodation. Chimanimani is a low risk location (1470m) for Malaria, but areas below 1200m are considered high risk in the period from November to June.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you cook meals for us?
All the cottages provide self-catering facilities for guests to cook their own meals. We recommend that guests bring their own food as there is a fridge/freezer available and plenty of cupboards for storage. Guests can also buy provisions in the village which is within walking distance. Cooked meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) are available but need to be arranged in advance, or by arrangement with the cook.
Can i buy alcohol at Wayside Cottages?
No. You can bring your own alcohol and use the family bar if you are booked at the Elephant Castle. Otherwise there are bottle stores and beer outlets in the Village or Country Club
Do you offer airport transfers?
No, we do not offer our own transport for transfers or site-seeing. There are car hire facilities in Mutare, the closest city. Alternatively, we can recommend local transporters. Please let is know your requirements at the time of booking.
Do you have Wifi?
Yes, just ask for the wifi details
Do I need to take malaria medication?
No. There is a very low risk of Malaria in Chimanimani because of the high altitude of 1470m above sea level. Risks are particularly low from July to October. If you’re also staying in high risk areas like the Zambezi Valley, or areas below 1200m from November to June, we recommend you speak to your doctor about malaria prevention tablets such as: Atovaquone/Proguanil, Doxycycline or Mefloquine
Are there any ATMs nearby?
No. We recommend you bring small denominations of USD cash
What currencies do you accept?
We accept:
- US Dollars
- Zimbabwean Bond notes
- Bank Transfers in the local currency
- Bank Transfers in Nostro Account (USD)
What type of plug points are used at Wayside Cottages and should i bring an adaptor?
We have square and round plugs. You may need an adaptor depending on the number and type of gadgets you have.
Do you have hairdryers?
Yes we have hairdryers. Please request at booking or ask for one at check-in while you arrive.