Introduction
Nestled about 30km east of Masvingo, Zimbabwe, lies the picturesque Kyle Recreational Park, a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. This comprehensive guide provides valuable insights into the town, from its history and geographical features to practical details like weather, travel options, and attractions.
Location and GPS Coordinates
Situated near the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kyle Recreational Park spans an impressive 169km². The park’s northern boundary is embraced by the Beza Range, reaching a height of 1,455m.
History of Kyle Recreational Park
Established in 1960 after the completion of Kyle Dam, the park has a rich history tied to the visionary Tom Murray MacDougall. The dam was constructed for irrigation purposes, benefiting the southeast Lowveld. Named after the Kyle District in Scotland, the park and dam have become a vital recreational facility.
Size & Population
Covering 93km² of water and 76km² of land, Kyle Recreational Park offers an expansive environment for outdoor activities. While the park itself does not have a significant human population, its diverse wildlife, including over 25 species of mammals and 35 bird species, adds to its allure.
Weather in Kyle Recreational Park
image credit: dev.zimbabwetourism.net
The park experiences distinct seasons. Summer, from September to March, calls for cool, comfortable clothing, sunhats, and sunscreen. Winter and autumn, spanning April to August, necessitate warm clothing, especially during the evenings.
Travel Information
Distance from Harare City Centre to Kyle Recreational Park
For those journeying from Harare, take the A4 for 295km to Masvingo. In Masvingo, head towards Mutare, then turn right, proceeding towards the park.
Travel Time from Harare to Kyle Recreational Park
The travel time from Harare to Kyle Recreational Park depends on the mode of transport but typically ranges from 3 to 4 hours by car.
Distance from Kyle Recreational Park to Masvingo
Located approximately 30km east of Masvingo, Kyle Recreational Park is conveniently accessible from this historical city.
Travel Time from Kyle Recreational Park to Masvingo
The travel time from Kyle Recreational Park to Masvingo is approximately 30 minutes by car.
Kyle Recreational Park Town Council Contact Details
- Phone: +263 (242) 707625/ 8. +263 8677707627
- Email: info@zimparks.org.zw
Also Read: Khami Ruins: A Historical Marvel Amidst Zimbabwe’s Landscape
Schools in Kyle Recreational Park
No schools are located directly within the park’s boundaries. It primarily functions as a recreational area with accommodation options and various activities like boating, fishing, and game viewing.
Near Kyle Recreational Park:
- Kyle Primary School: Situated in Masvingo, approximately 8 kilometers from the park’s entrance. It’s a government-run primary school offering education from Early Childhood Development (ECD) to Grade 7.
- Kyle College: Also located in Masvingo, around 10 kilometers from the park. It’s a private, co-educational high school established in 1952 and known for its academic excellence and sporting achievements.
- Kyle Preparatory School: Found in Masvingo, roughly 13 kilometers away from the park. It’s a private, co-educational preparatory school catering to learners from ECD to Grade 7.
Additional options:
- Masvingo City Schools: Masvingo, the closest major city to the park, has numerous public and private schools offering primary and secondary education.
- Rural Schools: Several smaller schools are scattered throughout the rural areas surrounding the park, catering to the local communities.
Colleges and Universities in or near Kyle Recreational Park
There are no colleges or universities located directly within or near Kyle Recreational Park in Zimbabwe. The park primarily serves as a recreational area and doesn’t have educational institutions within its immediate vicinity.
However, several colleges and universities are situated in Masvingo, the closest major city to the park:
Colleges:
- Great Zimbabwe University: A public university established in 1984, renowned for its programs in education, arts, social sciences, and agriculture.
- Masvingo Polytechnic College: Offers technical and vocational training in various fields like accounting, business administration, engineering, and information technology.
Universities:
- Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University: Established in 2014, focusing on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs.
- Women’s University in Africa (WUA): Committed to empowering women through higher education, offering programs in humanities, social sciences, and business.
Remember, these institutions are approximately 30-40 kilometers away from Kyle Recreational Park. If you’re seeking options closer to the park, considering private colleges or smaller higher education institutions in surrounding towns may be necessary.
Lodges in Kyle Recreational Park
Here are the lodges available within Kyle Recreational Park, Zimbabwe:
Kyle Recreational Park Lodges:
Waterbuck Lodge: This self-catering lodge offers 3 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 8 guests. It has a fully equipped kitchen, lounge area, bathroom, and private balcony with stunning views of Lake Mutirikwi.
2-Bedroom Lodge: This self-catering lodge features 2 bedrooms and sleeps 4 guests comfortably. It comes equipped with a kitchen, lounge area, bathroom, and a private balcony overlooking the lake.
1-Bedroom Lodge: This self-catering lodge provides 1 bedroom and can accommodate 2 guests. It boasts a kitchen, lounge area, bathroom, and a private balcony offering scenic lake views.
Rates:
- Waterbuck Lodge: US$143 per night
- 2-Bedroom Lodge: US$115 per night
- 1-Bedroom Lodge: US$86 per night
Additional details:
- All lodges feature braai facilities and parking.
- Bed linen and towels are provided.
- Daily housekeeping is available upon request.
- Self-catering necessitates bringing your own food and beverages.
- Reservations are necessary and can be made through Zimparks at +263 242 706 077.
Things to Do
Activities in Kyle Recreational Park
- Fishing: Lake Muturikwi is renowned for fishing activities.
- Game Viewing: Explore the park’s wildlife using your own vehicle.
- Guided Walks: Discover the park’s diverse terrain with knowledgeable guides.
- Guided Horse Rides: Experience the beauty of the landscape on horseback.
- Arboretum Walk: Take an unguided stroll from the Tourist Office to the camp sites.
- Scenic View at Uchicho: Enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
- Boat Club: Engage in boating activities on the lake.
image credit: Fambayi (Travel) Zimbabwe’s Best Travel Guides
Trivia
- The Kyle Dam wall is a double curvature concrete arch, measuring 309 meters in length and 63 meters in height.
- Lake Mutirikwi has approximately 21 species of fish, making it a haven for fishing enthusiasts.
- The park’s vegetation ranges from miombo woodland to thicket woodland, open woodland, grassland, rocky hills, and a barren zone along the lake shore.
Also Read: Exploring Bindura: A Comprehensive Guide to the Heart of Mashonaland Central
Nearby Attractions
- Great Zimbabwe Ancient City: A UNESCO World Heritage site located 30 kilometers from Masvingo.
- Italian Chapel of St Francis of Assisi: A historic chapel built by Italian internees during World War II.
- Settlers Cemetery: A poignant reminder of the region’s colonial history.
Conclusion
Kyle Recreational Park stands as a testament to Zimbabwe’s natural beauty and conservation efforts. Whether you are a local resident or an international traveler, this guide equips you with the essential information to explore and appreciate the wonders of Kyle Recreational Park.
