Quick answer
Chinhoyi Caves are a limestone cave system about 125 km north-west of Harare, famous for the Sleeping Pool (Chirorodziva), a cobalt-blue sinkhole more than 80 metres deep. The caves are run by Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife, open daily, and make an easy stop on the drive from Harare to Lake Kariba or Mana Pools.
- From Harare
- 1.5 – 2 h by road
- Sleeping Pool depth
- 80 m+
- Water temperature
- 22 – 24°C all year
- Time needed
- 1 – 2 hours
- Managed by
- ZimParks
- Best for
- Road-trip stop, diving
What are Chinhoyi Caves?
The caves are a network of collapsed limestone and dolomite caverns and tunnels. The main attraction is the Sleeping Pool, reached by a sloping passage and steps from the Wonder Hole, a large open sinkhole. Sunlight hitting the water at midday turns it an intense blue. The Dark Cave gives a second viewpoint over the pool from above.
How to get to Chinhoyi Caves from Harare
Take the A1 north-west from Harare towards Chinhoyi and Kariba. The park entrance is about 8 km past Chinhoyi town, right beside the main road. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours each way. We include the caves as a stop on Harare to Kariba and Harare to Mana Pools transfers, so you see them without an extra day.
Entrance fees and opening hours
Fees are set by ZimParks and differ for Zimbabwean citizens, SADC residents and international visitors. The caves are open every day during daylight hours. Ask us for current rates, or let us include the entry in your transfer.
Can you swim or dive in the Sleeping Pool?
Swimming is not allowed for casual visitors. Certified, experienced divers can dive the pool with a registered operator and permission from the park. Visibility is often excellent in the dry winter months, and passages below the pool continue deeper than most recreational limits.
The legends of Chirorodziva and the mermaid
The Shona name Chirorodziva means "pool of the fallen", from oral history of people being thrown into the pool during raids in the 1800s. Many local people also believe a njuzu, a water spirit often described as a mermaid, lives in the pool, and treat the caves with respect as a sacred site.
Where to stay near Chinhoyi Caves
There is a small motel and a ZimParks campsite beside the caves, and more options in Chinhoyi town. Most of our guests visit as a stop and continue the same day to Lake Kariba, Mana Pools or back to Harare.
Trips that include Chinhoyi Caves
- 8 Nights Mana Pools, Hwange & Victoria Falls Highlights Safari, from US$5,403
- 13 Nights Best of Zimbabwe Highlights Guided Safari, from US$6,720
- Lake Kariba houseboat breaks
Chinhoyi Caves FAQs
How far are Chinhoyi Caves from Harare?
About 125 km, roughly 1.5 to 2 hours on the A1 towards Kariba.
How deep is the Sleeping Pool?
More than 80 metres, with flooded passages continuing below.
Can you swim at Chinhoyi Caves?
No, not as a casual visitor. Certified divers can dive with a registered operator.
What is the Chinhoyi Caves mermaid legend?
Local tradition says a njuzu, or water spirit, lives in the pool, which is why it is treated as sacred.