10 Unforgettable Things to Do in Chitungwiza Zimbabwe Throughout the Year

Key takeaways:

• Chitungwiza offers a lively blend of cultural creativity, community spirit, and untapped outdoor beauty perfect for year-round exploration

• The city is rich with music, art, and spiritual heritage that provides authentic experiences off the beaten tourist track

• Whether you’re attending a local market, watching a dance performance, or exploring lakeside views, Chitungwiza delivers memorable, people-centered travel moments

Chitungwiza is one of Zimbabwe’s fastest-growing cities, located just southeast of Harare. While often overlooked in favor of the capital, “Chi Town” has a unique identity all its own—marked by bustling townships, vibrant youth culture, and deep-rooted traditions. Developed in the 1970s, Chitungwiza was created as a high-density residential area but quickly grew into a cultural and economic force. Known for producing some of Zimbabwe’s most talented musicians and sculptors, this city pulses with creative energy. Visitors are drawn to its raw authenticity, rich local flavor, and community-driven attractions that feel both grounded and welcoming.

Table of contents

1. Visit Chitungwiza Arts Centre

2. Walk the Banks of Lake Chivero

3. Attend a Gospel Concert or Church Service

4. Explore Zengeza 2 Market

5. Watch a Traditional Dance Performance

6. Discover Domboshava Caves (Day Trip)

7. Join a Community Soccer Match

8. Taste Sadza and Local Cuisine at a Street Café

9. Tour Local Sculptors’ Workshops

10. Enjoy Live Music at Makoni Shopping Centre

1. Visit Chitungwiza Arts Centre

Chitungwiza Arts Centre is the creative heartbeat of the city—a haven for sculptors, painters, and carvers showcasing Zimbabwe’s famous Shona stone artistry. This open-air studio space lets you walk among dozens of artists as they shape raw stone into expressive works of art. Visitors can talk with the artists, purchase one-of-a-kind pieces, or simply admire the process up close. The energy is informal and welcoming, making it one of the most interactive cultural stops in Zimbabwe.

Each visit to the Arts Centre is different, with new sculptures in progress and spontaneous musical jam sessions taking place on the grounds. It’s also one of the best places to understand the cultural symbolism behind the art, as many artists are happy to share the stories behind their work. Whether you’re a serious collector or a casual browser, the creativity here is contagious. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Zimbabwean identity through its artistic expression.

2. Walk the Banks of Lake Chivero

Just outside Chitungwiza lies Lake Chivero, a tranquil escape offering hiking, birdwatching, and breathtaking sunset views. Though officially outside the city boundaries, it’s a favorite weekend destination for locals looking to reconnect with nature. The shoreline is dotted with picnic spots and fishing areas where families gather to relax and unwind. The lake is also part of a protected game park, so it’s not uncommon to see zebras or antelope roaming nearby.

Nature lovers can explore well-maintained trails that wind through the woodland areas, offering peaceful encounters with native flora and fauna. There are also small lodges and boat rentals available for longer stays. The cooler dry months (May to August) are best for walking and wildlife spotting. Whether you’re birdwatching or just breathing in the quiet, Lake Chivero offers a refreshing counterbalance to city life.

3. Attend a Gospel Concert or Church Service

Faith plays a powerful role in the daily life of Chitungwiza, and attending a gospel concert or vibrant Sunday service is an immersive cultural experience. These gatherings are filled with passionate music, choreographed dance, and community energy that is both spiritual and electrifying. Many of Zimbabwe’s top gospel performers began in churches here, so you’re likely to witness real talent. Visitors are welcome, and the energy is inclusive even if you don’t speak Shona.

The largest services often happen in open-air stadiums or school courtyards, with full choirs, sound systems, and crowds dressed in their Sunday best. For a quieter experience, try a midweek gathering at a smaller congregation. Either way, you’ll feel the heartbeat of the city through its faith and music. Just be prepared to dance—or at least clap along with the rhythm.

4. Explore Zengeza 2 Market

Zengeza 2 Market is a thriving local hotspot where you can experience the real pulse of Chitungwiza’s daily life. From colorful produce stands and secondhand clothing to electronics, handmade crafts, and food vendors, the market buzzes with energy. It’s the kind of place where bartering is expected, and every stall has a story behind it. If you’re looking for souvenirs, this is where you’ll find them cheaper and more authentic than any hotel gift shop.

Walking through the market gives you insight into local trends, tastes, and social dynamics. Friendly vendors might offer cooking tips, and the street food here—think flame-grilled maize or spicy samosas—is delicious and affordable. It’s best visited in the morning before crowds peak, and always keep small change handy. A visit to Zengeza 2 isn’t just a shopping trip—it’s a cultural experience wrapped in everyday life.

5. Watch a Traditional Dance Performance

Traditional dance in Chitungwiza is alive and well, often featured at cultural centers, community festivals, or even impromptu street gatherings. These dances, rooted in Shona heritage, tell stories of harvests, rites of passage, and ancestral respect. Dancers wear vibrant costumes and use instruments like drums, mbira (thumb piano), and hosho (gourd rattles) to set the rhythm. Performances are lively and interactive, with audiences encouraged to join in the movement.

One of the best times to catch these events is during national holidays or local commemorations, when cultural pride is on full display. Groups often travel between schools and neighborhoods, bringing dance to the people instead of waiting for a stage. These performances bridge generations and preserve traditions while offering joy and spectacle to all. Don’t worry if you don’t know the steps—enthusiasm is what really counts.

6. Discover Domboshava Caves (Day Trip)

About an hour’s drive from Chitungwiza, the Domboshava Caves offer a fascinating glimpse into Zimbabwe’s ancient past. These granite hills are home to well-preserved rock paintings created by San people thousands of years ago. As you hike up to the cave site, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The area is peaceful, spiritual, and full of cultural significance.

The red ochre drawings depict scenes of hunting, animals, and rituals that give insight into prehistoric life. Local guides are available and help explain the meanings behind the artwork, making the visit even more enriching. The site also includes picnic areas and shaded rest spots ideal for a relaxed afternoon. It’s a perfect blend of nature, history, and light adventure—great for both solo travelers and families.

7. Join a Community Soccer Match

Soccer is a way of life in Chitungwiza, and the local fields buzz with activity almost every afternoon. From organized youth leagues to informal neighborhood showdowns, there’s always a game happening. Visitors are often welcomed to join or cheer from the sidelines, creating an easy way to connect with locals. The energy is contagious and often feels more like a celebration than a competition.

If you want to play, just bring your sneakers and introduce yourself—hospitality here is strong. Some of the best matches happen around Chikwanha Shopping Centre or near local schools. Soccer is how many locals unwind, express themselves, and build community, so don’t be surprised if you make a few friends in the process. It’s a raw, joyful look at life in motion.

8. Taste Sadza and Local Cuisine at a Street Café

No trip to Chitungwiza is complete without sampling Zimbabwe’s staple dish, sadza—a thick cornmeal porridge served with relish, vegetables, or meat. The best way to enjoy it is at a local café or roadside spot where the food is freshly made and generously portioned. Pair it with beef stew, pumpkin leaves, or peanut butter spinach for a flavorful, satisfying meal.

These cafés are casual, lively, and often filled with the sounds of laughter and radio music. Many meals are eaten with your hands, which adds to the cultural immersion. Don’t be shy to ask the vendor what’s popular or how to eat something—it’s all part of the experience. A meal here gives you not just local flavor, but also a taste of community life.

9. Tour Local Sculptors’ Workshops

Chitungwiza is known across Zimbabwe for producing some of the country’s most talented stone sculptors. While the Arts Centre is a hub, many artists also work from home-based studios scattered throughout the city. If you ask around, you may be invited into a small backyard filled with tools, raw rock, and incredible works-in-progress. It’s an intimate and inspiring experience for art lovers.

These visits let you learn how Shona sculpture is made—from selecting the stone to polishing the finished piece. You’ll gain respect for the time, skill, and emotion poured into each creation. Buying directly from the artist ensures your money goes to the right place and often results in better prices too. These workshops feel like hidden gems and are a highlight for culturally curious travelers.

10. Enjoy Live Music at Makoni Shopping Centre

As the unofficial nightlife hub of Chitungwiza, Makoni Shopping Centre comes alive in the evenings with live music and street performances. Local artists play Afro-jazz, dancehall, sungura, and gospel blends at bars and open-air spaces. These spontaneous performances often draw large crowds, creating a party-like vibe with dancing, food vendors, and drinks flowing. It’s the place to go if you want to feel the pulse of the city after dark.

While larger events may be promoted ahead of time, smaller pop-up shows happen frequently and feel more personal. The atmosphere is friendly and energetic, perfect for a night out with locals. Whether you dance the night away or just soak in the sounds, Makoni offers an unforgettable nightlife experience. Music is a core part of Chitungwiza’s identity—and here, it’s alive and loud.

What to do if you have kids?

Chitungwiza is surprisingly family-friendly, with lots of open space and activities that welcome children. Kids will enjoy exploring the Chitungwiza Arts Centre, joining informal soccer games, or spotting animals on a day trip to Lake Chivero. Local cafés and street food vendors often serve simple, hearty meals that even picky eaters will enjoy. The city’s laid-back pace means families can explore comfortably without the stress of tight schedules or crowded tourist spots.

Where can I find free events in Chitungwiza Zimbabwe taking place this weekend?

To discover free concerts, sports matches, cultural festivals, and more happening this weekend in Chitungwiza, use https://planmyweekend.ai. The tool makes it easy to find alcohol-free, community-based events that match your interests. Whether you’re into music, outdoor markets, or family-friendly gatherings, PlanMyWeekend.ai helps you connect with real events happening in the city—without the tourist traps.

Final thoughts on planning a trip here

Chitungwiza isn’t polished or touristy—and that’s what makes it beautiful. It’s a city powered by people, creativity, and raw culture waiting to be experienced. From traditional music and heartfelt art to spirited markets and lakeside escapes, there’s something honest and unforgettable about spending time here. If you’re looking for a deeper kind of travel, one where you connect with communities rather than just check off sights, Chitungwiza should be on your map.