zimbabwe begins

First on our list were the Chimanimani mountains to see and hike around (the group told us not to go it would rain the whole time) but we were determined. Beautiful mountains, nice windy roads, not too many people and then we arrived in the little town of chimanimani…deserted. Well there were a few people, a coffee shop that was very run down and blaring terrible music…and we realized that not really knowing Zimbabwe and the attitudes, safety, etc…that we couldn’t stay on our own. So we continued on to Jarera and visiting Ute’s friend. Swiss germans were abounding at Musiso Mission Hospital…they did speak English as well (lucky for me). Three kids who understand english but don’t speak much of it—we got on like wildfire…the middle child went to tell his mom that they were flying over the woman who laughs in English…they were jumping over my legs as I laid on the floor…not a bad way to be known. The next morning we went to visit a farm that is also kind of a refuge for animals…there is a blind buffalo, many types of birds, and other animals…among them 4 “tame” elephants that we went out to give water. Later that afternoon we went to the mission swimming pool…very well kept up but it was neon green because there had been no power for two weeks so the filter couldn’t function…a wonderful stop and time to get our bearings in Zimbabwe—get different local perspectives (zim farmers, missionaries) as to the local attitudes and how safe we should feel.
Then on to the Greater Zimbabwe ruins…the oldest structures on the African continent next to the pyramids…of course they are in ruins but they are somewhat impressive…the size of the walls, the thickness and height…no cement of any kind was used, just row upon row of granite stone—mostly parallel. And as it is an archaeological site not much is really known about who built it or what the structures were used for—it is all conjecture but still impressive. Both campsites we stayed at were empty…beautiful though…the first there was only us and the receptionist. it is a bit strange to be the only ones at these big holiday parks… the second night at the national park camp, there was one german backpacker as well…but there were people visiting the ruins which was nice to see.