Gonarezhou National Park
Zimbabwe's second-largest national park (over 5 000 km²), Gonarezhou, offers spectacular scenery, including the famous Chilojo Cliffs, wide meandering rivers and extensive woodlands.
Home to over 11 000 elephants, 89 species of mammal and over 500 species of bird, Gonarezhou and surrounding private game reserves should be high on the list of attractions to visit when in Zimbabwe.
Gonarezhou National Park Facts
- Size: +5 000km²
- Location: South-eastern Zimbabwe
- Altitude: 165m to 575m above sea level
- Accommodation: Gonarezhou Lodges
Where is Gonarezhou National Park located?
Located in the remote and wild south-eastern corner of Zimbabwe on the border with Mozambique. The closest recognisable town would be Masvingo (home of the Great Zimbabwean ruins), and that is in the region of 300 kilometres away depending on what road is taken.
Click here to see the exact location of the Gonarezhou National Park on Google maps; Google Maps - Gonarezhou National Park
Best Time to Visit Gonarezhou National Park?
The dry season (winter) in Zimbabwe is the best time to visit the park for wildlife and mild to warm temperatures, May to October are the months one should be looking at when planning a safari here.
Summer is the wet season, and when the rain falls, access to parts of the park are restricted or cut off due to rising water and bad tracks. November to April are the summer months; temperatures can and do exceed 40° Celcius.
Information On Gonarezhou National Park
Gonarezhou, 'abode of the elephant' in the local language of Shona, offers visitors the chance to spot 4 of Africa's 'Big 5" (unfortunately, all rhino have been poached out of the park) hippo, crocodile and a whole host of other mammals.
The flat, undulating country is broken by the valleys of three rivers (Mwenezi, Rundi and Save) and by isolated hills here and there. The Chilojo Cliffs border the Runde River, and the Park includes the Grieve Pans, which fill with water in the rainy season.
A remote and wild corner of Zimbabwe that sees very few international or local tourists resulting in a safari here where one basically has the entire park to one's self.
A little interesting aspect of Gonarezhou is that the National Park officially forms part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park (the Kruger National Park (South Africa) and Limpopo National Park (Mozambique) in which wildlife can move freely between the three sanctuaries.
Main Attractions Of Gonarezhou National Park
- Wildlife
- Birdlife
- Remote and wild
- Chilojo Cliffs
- 11 000 plus elephants
- Incredible wildlife
- Save River
- Daka Plains Camp
Nestled in Hwange National Park, Daka Plains Camp offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure. Perfect for those seeking a genuine connection with nature, the camp features elegantly furnished tented suites that ensure comfort and privacy.
Amid Africa's remarkable wildlife, guests can explore stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity through guided activities. Whether on thrilling game drives, peaceful walks, or night safaris, Daka Plains Camp promises an unforgettable safari experience.
- Tembo Plains Camp
Tembo Plains Camp is a sublime gateway to the captivating landscapes of Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe. Here, the harmony of luxury and nature creates an unparalleled retreat for discerning travellers.
The experience at Tembo Plains is enhanced by a passionate team committed to exceptional service and a strong connection to the wilderness. From arrival, the enchanting sights and sounds of the African bush draw you into an extraordinary adventure, offering an unforgettable safari filled with exploration and wonder.
- John's Camp
Without a doubt, John's Camp in Mana Pools is an absolutely exceptional sanctuary, offering a truly unparalleled classic safari experience. This is the ultimate escape for those who genuinely yearn to disconnect from the frantic pace of the modern world.
This wonderfully intimate tented camp has been meticulously designed for the most discerning adventurers, those who seek to immerse themselves in the very finest and most abundant wildlife and birdlife that the majestic Mana Pools National Park exquisitely presents. It's truly a hidden gem that delivers an unforgettable wilderness immersion.
- 528 Victoria Falls
Nestled in Zimbabwe's stunning scenery, 528 Victoria Falls redefines the safari lodge experience, blending luxury with nature's untamed beauty. This retreat features eight elegant suites, each offering sophistication and cultural charm, inviting guests to relax in comfort.
With personal service from attentive owner-operators, every moment enriches your stay. The lodge's close proximity to Victoria Falls and the vibrant local town ensures an exhilarating adventure is always within reach, promising an exciting and rejuvenating holiday.
- Sapi Explorers Camp
Sapi Explorers Camp is, without a doubt, spectacularly positioned within the magnificent 1180-square-kilometre private Sapi Concession. This exceptional wilderness, bordering Zimbabwe's world-renowned Mana Pools National Park, is one of the most remote and captivating safari destinations in Africa today.
The sense of adventure is heightened by the sheer variety of wildlife, making every moment feel like a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. With its unparalleled setting and the thrill of exploration, this destination promises an experience that redefines what it means to connect with nature.
- Kanga Camp
Kanga Camp is, without a doubt, one of the most exclusive safari experiences in Mana Pools National Park. Nestled in an untouched wilderness paradise, this seasonal camp overlooks the serene beauty of Kanga Pan, offering guests an authentic and intimate connection with nature that is truly exceptional.
The camp prides itself on creating a small, personal experience, with every detail designed to immerse guests in the wild. Game drives and walking safaris provide unparalleled opportunities to explore the stunning landscape and encounter the diverse wildlife that calls this pristine area home.