Hot Springs Resort - Zimbabwe. Exploring a hidden gem скачать в хорошем качестве

Hot Springs Resort - Zimbabwe. Exploring a hidden gem

There are over thirty known sites in Zimbabwe where hot water issues from the ground, with a maximum temperature of 90⁰C recorded at Kariba. The water is believed by some to have healing medicinal properties and they come long distances to swim in the waters believing it will heal skin diseases, sore backs, rheumatism and swollen legs; but an analysis of the water does not reveal any chemicals that confirm this belief. Chemicals found in the water include calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, fluoride, potassium, chlorides, phosphates, silicates, sodium and dissolved sulphur, the common “bad egg” smell. The water often appears to boil as gas bubbles are released. Local communities believe there is much cultural and historical significance as the springs have gushed hot water for as long as their ancestors can remember, with some elders regarding them as holy. People often throw coins into the waters, hoping a wish will come true. Bathers swimming in the waters are not allowed to use soap as local people believe this may offend the ancestors. Hot Springs Resort is close to the A9 Highway as it heads south from Mutare to Birchenough Bridge. Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority run the Hot Springs site which has self-catering chalets for hire to visitors. About one acre has been enclosed by a fence, and this contains the eye of the spring. The water emerges scalding hot, but cools down as it flows into small pools and then a swimming pool.