RunVumba presented by Friends of the Vumba
Nestled within Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands, the Bvumba Mountains—aptly named the "Mountains of the Mist"—offer a serene and picturesque setting for the inaugural RunVumba event. This one-day race features 12km, 21km, and 42km courses, all commencing from the heart of the Vumba Botanical Gardens.

Raising funds and awareness for Friends Of The Vumba

Race Overview

Participants will embark on routes that meander through lush landscapes, verdant forests, and rolling hills, providing both a challenging and visually stunning experience. The varying distances cater to runners of all levels, ensuring an inclusive and memorable event.

Host Venue: Vumba Botanical Gardens

Situated approximately 32 kilometers from Mutare, the Vumba Botanical Gardens serve as the perfect backdrop for RunVumba. Established in 1958, these gardens span over 159 hectares of meticulously landscaped terrain, centered around perennial streams that converge into a serene small lake. Visitors can explore a rich collection of indigenous orchids, ferns, proteas, azaleas, and more, all interconnected by a network of footpaths. The gardens are also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with numerous species inhabiting the area, and home to the endemic Samango monkey.

Exploring the Bvumba Mountains

Beyond the race, the Bvumba Mountains straddle the Zimbabwe-Mozambique border, rising to Castle Beacon at 1,911 meters. This region is renowned for its early morning mists that dissipate by mid-morning, revealing breathtaking vistas. The mountains are adorned with savannah woodlands, sub-montane grasslands, and evergreen forests nestled in deep ravines. Notably, the area is famous for its coffee plantations and the Leopard Rock Hotel.

Local Attractions

While attending RunVumba, participants and visitors can indulge in several nearby attractions:

• Tony’s Coffee Shop: Renowned for its extensive selection of teas and decadent cakes, this establishment offers a delightful culinary experience.

• Leopard Rock Hotel: Described by the Queen Mother in 1953 as "the most beautiful place in Africa," this hotel offers luxury accommodations, a pristine golf course, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Friends Of The Vumba

Friends of the Vumba is a voluntary community trust dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Vumba region in Zimbabwe. Their mission encompasses environmental conservation, community engagement, and the promotion of sustainable tourism.

Join Us at RunVumba

We invite runners and nature enthusiasts alike to partake in this unique event that seamlessly blends athleticism with the natural splendor of the Bvumba Mountains. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or simply wish to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Eastern Highlands, RunVumba promises an unforgettable experience.

12 July 2025
Friday 11th -Registration - Venue TBC
Saturday 12th -12km, 21km, 42km
NB: All details are not final, and subject to change upon completion of route checks

VENUE
Race Village: Bvumba Botanical Gardens - Bvumba

REGISTRATION FEE
12km - $80
21km - $110
42km - $140

RACE ENTRY INCLUDES
Race number | Grab-n-go items | Shirt | Venue / Parks Fee | Goodie Bag
Online entries close 31 May 2025

REGISTRATION - BRIEFING - START
Friday 
14:00 - 19:00 - Registration

Saturday 
06H30 - 42km Start
07H30 - 21km Start
08H30 - 12km Start

19H00 - Prize Giving / Braai

​​RACE VILLAGE ACCOMODATION
Camping available at Botanical gardens
Bvumba Accomodation - Sue Worsely - +263 71 261 0388 - mhumhe@zol.co.zw

FRIENDS & FAMILY 
Friends and family welcome, Accommodation and parks fees for your own account

WATER POINTS AND NUTRITION
Hydration and nutrition checkpoints will be available at the start and finish, as well as along the route.

CANCELLATIONS, DEFERALS, SUBSTITUTIONS
We know things don’t always pan out as planned. Sometimes life just gets in the way.
As a result we have the following policies in place:

Any entry cancelled before April 31 2025 will get a 50% refund.
Any entry cancelled between May 1 - May 30 2025 will get a 25% refund.
Any entry cancelled after May 30 will forfeit the full entry fee.

Alternatively, instead of cancelling, your entry can also be deferred to 2026.
Any deferrals will incur the price difference between the 2025 and 2026 entry fees, along with a $20 administration fee. Deferrals only up to 31st May

Substitutions will be allowed up to 30 May 2025.
All substitutions will incur a $20 substitution fee.
Substitutions only up to 30 May

RACE POSTPONEMENT
In the event we have to postpone the race, all entries will be carried over to the new date.
Should you not be able to make the new date, you will be entitled to receive a 50% refund, or a deferral to the 2026 race.