Escape the beaten path and uncover Africa's best-kept secret with a Gonarezhou National Park safari. This hidden wildlife paradise, nestled away in the southeastern corner of Zimbabwe is one of the last remaining true wilderness areas in Africa. Get ready for an abundance of animals that will leave you absolutely spellbound.
You'll soon understand why the locals named it "Place of many elephant", Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
Africa's Best-Kept Secret
We just love this untouched pocket of nature because, unlike many of the better-known national parks in Africa, Gonarezhou remains largely unexplored and undiscovered. And, when you embark on a Gonarezhou National Park safari you'll have the rare chance to experience Africa's natural beauty in its purest form.
Gonarezhou National Park is a vast wilderness spanning some 500,000ha, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
Gonarezhou National Park Activities
From baobab-studded plains to dense riverine forests, every corner of the 500,000ha Gonarezhou boasts a unique mix of ecosystems and an array of wildlife including lion, cheetah, hyena, and wild dog. And, with so much land to explore and animals to discover, this pristine region presents a plethora of exciting activities in which to indulge.
Fascinating cliffs, rivers and waterfalls are home to an array of wildlife, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
1. Game Drives
Start your day with an early game drive through vast landscapes, which is just one of the many thrilling Gonarezhou National Park activities available. Away from the monotonous hum of numerous safari vehicles and the ceaseless clicking of cameras, you're unlikely to come across another vehicle during you safari journey.
A wildlife haven all to your own, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
2. Chilojo Cliffs Walking Safari
A must-do activity when on a Gonarezhou National Park safari is a walking safari to the Chilojo Cliffs. Made of crimson sandstone, the Chilojo Cliffs are smack dab in the middle of the Gonarezhou National Park, right by the Runde River, and in a place where you can spend the entire day exploring.
There is no better way to explore an area than on foot, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
Watch exotic birds in their natural habitat at the Tembahata and Machanu Water Pans, and witness massive herds of majestic elephants and boisterous buffalos. Thereafter, Indulge in a delectable picnic lunch while soaking in the stunning views before capping off the day with a sundowner game drive back to your luxury lodge.
A unique mix of ecosystems including water pans attracting an array of wildlife, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
3. Exhilarating River Crossings
One of the most adventurous aspects of a Gonarezhou National Park safari is the river crossings, where you'll encounter crocodiles and hippos as you traverse the national park's winding waterways. But don't worry – your expert guide knows the area like the back of his hand and will ensure your safety at all times.
Opt for an exhilarating river crossing or boat safari, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
4. Experience the Magic of Fly Camping
Spend your evenings camped out under the stars. Enjoy bush picnics in the shade of a baobab tree or set up camp near the stunning Chilojo Cliffs for a magical fly camping experience. As the sun sets, you'll be surrounded by the sounds of nature and the sights of the starry sky, truly immersing you in the wild.
Listening to the night sounds is the best way to merge oneself with nature, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
5. Bird Watching
Be mesmerised by over 450 species, including regal Kingfishers, majestic Eagles, and fierce Raptors, soaring above the Chilojo Cliffs and vast water pans. Observe waterbirds gracefully gliding through the rivers, while Turacos and Parrots add a splash of colour to the dense riverine. A Gonarezhou National Park safari is a birder’s dream!
The water pans are just bursting with life, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
6. Community Visits
Discover the vibrant heart of a local community and be awed by their colourful customs and timeless traditions! Journey through schools and clinics, mingle with friendly villagers, and immerse yourself in the authentic rhythms of daily village life in one of Zimbabwe’s most remote corners.
Enjoy a colourful and informative visit to a local village, Image Credit: Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
Gonarezhou National Park Safari
Gonarezhou National Park is an untouched wilderness where nature reigns supreme. So, if you're looking for a place to experience Africa's natural beauty in all its wild and untamed glory, contact us now, because a Gonarezhou National Park safari should be at the top of your list!
