Gonarezhou National Park, located in the southeast of Zimbabwe, is one of the country’s largest and most remote conservation areas. Known for its rugged beauty, diverse landscapes, and exceptional wildlife, Gonarezhou remains a hidden gem for safari enthusiasts. The park is named after the Gonarezhou River, which winds through the park, creating stunning landscapes with dramatic cliffs, dense bush, and lush floodplains. With fewer visitors compared to more well-known parks, Gonarezhou offers a more exclusive and tranquil safari experience.
Attractions
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Chilojo Cliffs – One of the park’s most iconic features, the Chilojo Cliffs are a dramatic series of red sandstone cliffs that tower over the Save River. These cliffs provide incredible views and are a prime location for photography, especially at sunset.
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Save River – Flowing through the park, the Save River is a key feature of the landscape. It provides an important water source for wildlife and creates a vital corridor for animal movement, making it an excellent area for game viewing.
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The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park – Gonarezhou is part of the larger Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, which links conservation areas in Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa. This vast, transboundary park is a major conservation effort for the region.
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Waterholes and Springs – During the dry season, Gonarezhou’s natural springs and waterholes become gathering points for wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for game viewing, especially elephants, buffalo, and other large mammals.
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Wildlife Viewing – The park is home to a variety of species, including the African elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, and buffalo. The riverine areas are also teeming with birdlife, making Gonarezhou a great destination for both wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Wildlife
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Elephants – Gonarezhou is famous for its large elephant population, and the park is one of the best places in Zimbabwe to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
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Big Cats – Lions, leopards, and cheetahs roam the park, although sightings can be rare, particularly in the thick bush. Game drives offer a chance to track these elusive predators.
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Buffalo & Antelope – The park is home to large herds of buffalo, as well as a variety of antelope species such as kudu, impala, and eland, which are often seen grazing near waterholes.
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Birdlife – Gonarezhou is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 400 bird species recorded. Notable species include the Lilac-breasted Roller, African Fish Eagle, and the rare Pel’s Fishing Owl.
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Crocodiles & Hippos – The Save River is home to a number of crocodiles and hippos, often seen basking on the riverbanks or wallowing in the water.
Major Reserves & Protected Areas
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Gonarezhou National Park – The park spans over 5,000 square kilometres and is Zimbabwe’s second-largest national park. It is part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, a vast conservation area that extends into Mozambique and South Africa.
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Chilojo Cliffs – A prominent feature within the park, the Chilojo Cliffs are an important conservation area and a must-see for visitors due to their striking visual impact.
Activities
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Game Drives – Guided game drives provide excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings, with the possibility of encountering elephants, lions, buffalo, and numerous bird species.
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Walking Safaris – The park offers walking safaris with experienced guides, allowing visitors to explore the bush on foot and learn about the ecosystem and its inhabitants in more detail.
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Birdwatching – With its diverse habitats, Gonarezhou is a top destination for birdwatchers, with over 400 species to spot, including rare and migratory birds.
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Photography – The park’s diverse landscapes, from the red cliffs to the riverine areas, offer incredible opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography.
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Fishing & Canoeing – For those staying near the Save River, there are opportunities for fishing and canoeing, allowing visitors to explore the river and enjoy its peaceful surroundings.
Accommodation
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Luxury Lodges – Gonarezhou offers a handful of high-end lodges on the outskirts of the park, offering exclusive safaris with private game drives, walking safaris, and other tailored experiences.
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Mid-Range Lodges – There are several mid-range lodges in and around the park, providing comfortable accommodation with access to safari activities and local tours.
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Camping – For a more rustic experience, there are campsites available within the park, where guests can immerse themselves in nature. These sites offer basic facilities, and camping in the heart of Gonarezhou provides an authentic African wilderness experience.
Getting There
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By Air – The closest major airport is in Chiredzi, around 30 km from the park. Flights from Harare and other Zimbabwean cities can be arranged to Chiredzi, and charter flights are also available to smaller airstrips near the park.
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By Road – Gonarezhou is accessible by road from Chiredzi, with the drive taking around an hour. The park can be accessed via the main entrances: the Chingwizi and Chipinda Pools gates. The roads leading to the park can be rough, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
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Dry Season (May–October) – The best time to visit for wildlife viewing, as the bush is thinner and animals gather around waterholes. The temperatures are cooler during this period, making for a comfortable safari experience.
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Green Season (November–April) – While the wet season brings lush vegetation and vibrant birdlife, some of the wildlife can be more dispersed, and it can be harder to spot animals. However, the landscape is lush and full of life, making it a great time for photography and birdwatching.
Gonarezhou National Park offers a truly authentic African safari experience. Its remote location, combined with its diverse wildlife, striking landscapes, and rich history, makes it an unspoiled haven for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature. Whether you are trekking the Chilojo Cliffs, spotting elephants on a game drive, or exploring the riverine ecosystems, Gonarezhou is a safari destination that promises both adventure and tranquillity.