Tucked away in Zimbabwe’s remote southeast, bordering Mozambique, lies one of the country’s most breathtaking natural treasures — Gonarezhou National Park.
Covering an impressive 5,000 km², this is Zimbabwe’s second-largest national park, after Hwange — yet it remains one of the most untouched and underrated safari destinations in the region.
If you’re looking for true wilderness, dramatic landscapes, and unbeatable wildlife encounters, Gonarezhou is the place to be.
A Name That Means Something
The name “Gonarezhou” means “Place of Many Elephants” in Shona — and with more than 11,000 elephants roaming freely, the park certainly lives up to its name. But elephants are just the beginning. Gonarezhou is home to an incredible range of animals including lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, African wild dogs, giraffes, buffalo, nyala, kudu, and sable antelope.
Bird lovers, take note: over 400 bird species have been recorded in the park, with rare and exciting sightings around every corner.
Wild Beauty at Every Turn
The park’s most iconic feature is the Chilojo Cliffs — ancient, red sandstone formations rising high above the Runde River. These cliffs, sculpted by centuries of erosion, are a highlight of any visit and offer jaw-dropping views across the valley.
Gonarezhou’s landscapes are wonderfully varied: from sandy riverbeds and open savannas to dense forests, rocky outcrops, and riverine gorges. Massive baobab trees dot the terrain, adding to the sense of ancient, untouched beauty.
Three major rivers — the Save, Runde, and Mwenezi — run through the park, creating essential habitats for the rich biodiversity that thrives here.
Things to Do in Gonarezhou
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Game Drives: Explore the park by 4×4 and discover wildlife in their natural habitat.
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Walking Safaris: Take guided walks in areas like Samalena Gorge for a closer look at nature.
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Birdwatching: Top spots include Tembawahata Pan and Machiniwa.
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Fishing: Available for overnight visitors at designated riverside campsites.
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Scenic Viewpoints: Visit Chilojo Cliffs, Chibilila Falls, and Mwatombo for unforgettable sights.
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Cultural Tours & Cave Art: Discover Zimbabwe’s ancient past through rock art and traditional village experiences.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore Gonarezhou is during the dry season (May–October) when wildlife gathers around water sources and is easier to spot. Temperatures are cooler in June–July, while the hottest months — September and October — offer incredible game viewing.
The wet season (November–April) brings dramatic afternoon storms and lush greenery, but parts of the park may become inaccessible due to flooding.
Getting There
Gonarezhou is remote, but not unreachable. The park can be accessed via:
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North Gate (Chipinda Pools) – best accessed from Chiredzi.
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South Gate – reached via Mwenezi and Chikombedzi.
By air: Private charters can land at Buffalo Range Airport or at airstrips within the park.
Where to Stay
Accommodation inside the park ranges from wilderness campsites to basic chalets and fully serviced tented camps. The Gonarezhou Conservation Trust manages most of these and offers a range of stay options to suit different budgets.
Nearby luxury lodges like Chilo Gorge Lodge and Pamushana Lodge provide high-end safari experiences, complete with guided tours and scenic boat trips.
📞 For bookings, contact:
📧 reservations@gonarezhou.org
📱 +263 779 788 811
Why Visit Gonarezhou?
Gonarezhou offers something rare — a raw and real safari experience without the crowds. It’s wild, it’s scenic, and it’s bursting with life. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer, photographer, or first-time visitor to Zimbabwe, Gonarezhou is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.
This is not just a national park — it’s a journey into the heart of Zimbabwe’s natural soul.
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