Chizarira National Park
Discover the unspoiled wilderness of this remote park, home to rare species like the sable antelope and African wild dog.
Overview
Chizarira National Park is a hidden gem located in the north-western region of Zimbabwe, covering an area of approximately 200,000 hectares. Established in 1963, the park was named after the Chizarira mountain range that dominates its landscape. The park is characterized by rugged terrain, deep gorges, and steep cliffs that provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It is one of the least explored parks in Zimbabwe, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, hyenas, and various antelope species. It is also home to over 240 bird species, making it a bird lover’s paradise. The plant species in the park include mopane woodlands, baobabs, and various species of acacia trees. Visitors to Chizarira National Park can enjoy a range of activities, including game drives, guided walks, bird watching, hiking, and camping, allowing them to immerse themselves in the park’s rugged and untouched landscape.
Things to Do
Safari game drive: Chizarira National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, and more. Going on a safari game drive is one of the best ways to see these animals up close and in their natural habitat. You can take a guided tour in an open 4×4 vehicle, and your experienced guide will help you identify different species and share information about their behavior and habits.
Guided nature walk: You’ll be accompanied by an experienced ranger who will help you identify different species of plants and animals, and teach you about the local culture and traditions. Walking through the park’s wilderness is a great way to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty.
Hiking: Chizarira National Park boasts a number of scenic trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there’s a trail for you. The trails will take you through rugged terrain, dense forests, and along breathtaking cliffs. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning waterfalls, rock formations, and panoramic views.
Rock climbing and abseiling: For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Chizarira offers excellent opportunities for rock climbing and abseiling. With its sheer cliffs and rocky outcrops, the park is a popular destination for climbers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, you’ll find a challenge here.
Bungee jumping: This adrenaline-pumping activity involves jumping off a high platform with an elastic cord tied to your ankles. It’s an exhilarating experience that will give you a unique perspective of the park’s stunning landscape.
Camping: Chizarira National Park has a number of campsites where you can relax and unwind after a day of exploring. Here you can enjoy a traditional braai (barbecue), share stories with fellow travelers, and marvel at the starry African sky. Camping is a great way to connect with nature and experience the park’s wilderness up close.
What to See
Chizarira Wilderness Area: The Chizarira Wilderness Area is a must-see attraction in Chizarira National Park. It offers visitors a unique and authentic African wilderness experience that is not to be missed. The area is only accessible by foot, making it a challenging but rewarding adventure for nature lovers.
Wildlife: Chizarira National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, and a variety of antelopes. Visitors can also spot over 200 species of birds, making it a bird-watchers paradise.
Natural landscapes: The rugged terrain, gorges, and forests of Chizarira National Park offer visitors a spectacular landscape to explore. The park’s natural beauty is truly breathtaking and provides visitors with an opportunity to reconnect with nature.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Gonarezhou National Park is during the dry season, which extends from May to October. This is when the wildlife is more concentrated around water sources and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot animals. The temperatures during this time are also cooler, making it more comfortable for visitors to explore the park.
Getting there
By Road: The most popular way to get to Gonarezhou National Park is by road. Visitors can hire a car and drive themselves, or they can take a shuttle or taxi. The roads leading to the park are generally in good condition, although some areas may be rough and require a 4×4 vehicle. The drive from Harare takes approximately 7-8 hours, while the drive from the nearby town of Masvingo takes around 3-4 hours.
By Air: For those who prefer to fly, there are several options available. The nearest airport to Gonarezhou National Park is Buffalo Range Airport, located approximately 40 km from the entrance to the park. This airport is serviced by several local airlines, including Air Zimbabwe and Fly Africa. Visitors can also fly to Harare or Johannesburg and then take a connecting flight to Buffalo Range Airport.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Rhino Safari Camp
Rhino Safari Camp offers comfortable mid-range accommodation in tented chalets. The camp provides basic amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, a dining area, and a communal lounge. Guests can enjoy guided walks, game drives, and bird watching. The camp’s location offers panoramic views of the park and the Zambezi Valley.
Chizarira Lodge
Chizarira Lodge offers mid-range accommodation in thatched chalets with en-suite bathrooms. The lodge features a dining area serving home-cooked meals, a swimming pool, and a viewing deck overlooking the valley. Guests can enjoy guided walks, game drives, and bird watching. The lodge’s location provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the park.
Luxury Accommodation:
Chizarira Wilderness Lodge
Chizarira Wilderness Lodge offers luxurious accommodation in tented suites with private decks overlooking the valley. The lodge features a dining area serving gourmet cuisine, a swimming pool, and a spa offering a range of treatments. Guests can enjoy guided walks, game drives, and bird watching. The lodge’s remote location allows for a truly exclusive safari experience.
Chizarira Tented Camp
Chizarira Tented Camp offers luxury tented accommodation in a secluded area of the park. The camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining area serving gourmet meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided walks, game drives, and bird watching. The camp’s location offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Other Attractions in Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls
Hwange National Park
Nyanga National Park
Manapools National Park
Gonarezhou National Park
Zambezi National Park
Matusadona National Park
General Knowledge Base
General information about Chizarira National Park, Zimbabwe.
Chizarira National Park is located in the north-western part of Zimbabwe, near the town of Binga.
Chizarira National Park covers an area of approximately 2,000 square kilometers.
The word “Chizarira” means “great barrier” in the local Tonga language.
Chizarira National Park ranges in altitude from 400 to 1,400 meters above sea level.
Chizarira National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, buffalos, zebras, giraffes, and many species of antelopes.
Chizarira National Park has a semi-arid climate, with hot and dry summers and mild winters.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities in Chizarira National Park, including game drives, walking safaris, bird watching, and camping.
Chizarira National Park is characterized by rugged hills, deep gorges, and plateaus covered in miombo woodland.
