The park covers an area of 5600hac on the northern borders  of the Zambezi river from which it was named. Some of the mammals in the park include elephant, leopard, sitatungas, white rhino, water buck, kudu, zebra, giraffe, monkeys, eland, sable antelope, impala, lion, and many others.

The river too is important for fishing-catches include the delicious bream and tiger fish, boating, sightseeing, houseboating  and other adventures.

Zambezi National Park has two main game-viewing sections: the Zambezi River Game Drive, with an extensive network of roads along the river accessed through the main gate of the Park, and the 25 kilometre Chamabondo Game Drive in the southern part of the Park, which begins about 5 kilometres outside of Victoria Falls town – just off the main road to Bulawayo.

Best time to go

During the summer months (November to March) the weather is hot and humid, whilst during the winter it is pleasantly cool and dry – occasionally becoming cold at night. The water falls are at full bream during the rainy season. During the dry season, the gorge at the falls is revealed.

Hotels and Accommodation

The accommodation units at Zambezi Camp are self-contained lodges on the river bank, situated 6 kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls. The camp is served by a tar road and is open all year around. The lodges are all fully equipped and each has 2 bedrooms, a living room, bathroom and kitchen with stove and refrigerator.Three exclusive fishing camps: Kandahar, Siansimba and Mpala Jena, are attractively situated on the banks of the Zambezi just off the Zambezi River Game Drive. Facilities consist of a flush toilet and cold shower; running water, a sleeping shelter (with low side walls at Kandahar), cement table with bench and braai unit. Fishing by boat is excellent in these areas.

Getting there

Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Parks lie on the southern bank of the Zambezi River. Visitors can travel by car, driving 440 kilometres northwest from Bulawayo or through Kazungula Border Post with Botswana 90 kilometres to the west. The Victoria Falls Border Post is within metres of the Falls for access by road from Zambia. The road from Bulawayo to the Falls is completely tarred and the roads around thee Falls can easily be negotiated by all types of vehicles. Victoria Falls boasts an international airport with services from Harare and many regional and international destinations

Victoria Falls are situated on the western tip of Zimbabwe. The Falls, known by the local Kololo tribe as Mosi oa Tunya- The Smoke that thunders, is one of the “Seven Wonders of the World” and one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls on earth.

ThThe falls are 1.7 kilometres wide and nearly 550 million litres of water cascade 70 to 108 metres into the chasm below -every minute- during the Zambezi River’s peak flow. Victoria Falls is made of five different “falls”. Four of these are in Zimbabwe: The Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls and Horseshoe Falls -and one, The Eastern Cataract, is in the bordering country of Zambia.

The main falls are the most majestic part of the Victoria Falls. With a wide curtain of water thundering down 93 metres into the gorge below and peak water flows of 700,000 cubic metres per minute, this section throws out a magnificent spray that continually nourishes the evergreen rainforest around the area.

The Devil’s Cataract

The Devil’s Cataract derives the name from an adjacent island in the Zambezi River where it is reported that locals used to conduct sacrificial ceremonies. With the advent of the missionaries, this practice was frowned upon and considered “devilish”, resulting in the name of the area.

Horseshoe Falls

This section is horseshoe shaped and is 95 metres deep. This section usually dries up at the height of the dry season between October and November.Rainbow FallsA beautiful rainbow can clearly be seen from this viewpoint. The falls are 108 metres deep at this point and are the deepest of the whole series.

The Eastern Cataract

These falls are situated completely on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls but have a stunning views

The Boiling Pot

This place is appropriately named to describe the turmoil where water from opposite sides of the falls collide in the Zambezi River as it turns in a southeasterly direction passing through several gorges.

Other Attractions

Victoria Falls Bridge

Having been designed in England, the bridge was transported from Europe in pieces and was assembled on site, bridging the Zambezi River and linking Zimbabwe and Zambia in 1906. The bridge is also renowned for its popular bungee jumping.

David Livingstone Statue

The David Livingstone statue can be found at the left end of the Falls near the spectacular Devil’s Cataract viewpoint. On 16 November 1855, Livingstone (the first Western explorer to view the Falls) wrote in his journal: “…scenes so lovely must have been gazed on by angels in their flight.”

Zambezi National Park

The Rainforest on the banks of the Zambezi River and near the Victoria Falls is part of the Zambezi National Park. The forest is rich in unique flora and fauna . One can wander amongst the Fig, Mahogany and Date Palm groves while gazing at the falls from magnificent viewpoints. Many species of birds and small mammals may be spotted beneath the protective canopy of the forest.

The park covers an area of 5600hac on the northern borders  of the Zambezi river from which it was named. Some of the mammals in the park include elephant, leopard, sitatungas, white rhino, water buck, kudu, zebra, giraffe, monkeys, eland, sable antelope, impala, lion, and many others.

The river too is important for fishing-catches include the delicious bream and tiger fish, boating, sightseeing, houseboating  and other adventures.

Zambezi National Park has two main game-viewing sections: the Zambezi River Game Drive, with an extensive network of roads along the river accessed through the main gate of the Park, and the 25 kilometre Chamabondo Game Drive in the southern part of the Park, which begins about 5 kilometres outside of Victoria Falls town – just off the main road to Bulawayo.

Best time to go

During the summer months (November to March) the weather is hot and humid, whilst during the winter it is pleasantly cool and dry – occasionally becoming cold at night. The water falls are at full bream during the rainy season. During the dry season, the gorge at the falls is revealed.

Hotels and Accommodation

The accommodation units at Zambezi Camp are self-contained lodges on the river bank, situated 6 kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls. The camp is served by a tar road and is open all year around. The lodges are all fully equipped and each has 2 bedrooms, a living room, bathroom and kitchen with stove and refrigerator.Three exclusive fishing camps: Kandahar, Siansimba and Mpala Jena, are attractively situated on the banks of the Zambezi just off the Zambezi River Game Drive. Facilities consist of a flush toilet and cold shower; running water, a sleeping shelter (with low side walls at Kandahar), cement table with bench and braai unit. Fishing by boat is excellent in these areas.

Getting there

Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Parks lie on the southern bank of the Zambezi River. Visitors can travel by car, driving 440 kilometres northwest from Bulawayo or through Kazungula Border Post with Botswana 90 kilometres to the west. The Victoria Falls Border Post is within metres of the Falls for access by road from Zambia. The road from Bulawayo to the Falls is completely tarred and the roads around thee Falls can easily be negotiated by all types of vehicles. Victoria Falls boasts an international airport with services from Harare and many regional and international destinations

With its stunning mountainous views, numerous waterfalls, varied activities and unique flora and fauna, Nyanga National Park can provide the visitor with an unforgettable holiday experience. The park is located about 268 km from Harare along a well tarred highway.

Wildlife

The mountainous terrain is home to a variety of animals including the mysterious waterbuck, wildebeest, kudu, zebra, impala, sables, eland to mention but a few .The sparkling fresh water rivers are an envelope of fresh water fish such as the Nyanga trout which is a delicacy to many visitors.

Best time to go

Cool temperatures are usual in Nyanga with summer temperature around 26 degrees celcius and winter cold temperatures of -3 degrees celcius .These are complimented by a wet summer.

Accommodation

Rhodes Nyanga hotel has been operating since early 1900s and it consists of 24 rooms, bar, restaurant and conference facilities. Historically the hotel has the Rhodes-Nyanga museum with some of the furniture Cecil John Rhodes owned.

There are three rest camps namely Rhodes, Udu and Mare. These Rest camps offer the visitor spacious thatched self catering two and one bed roomed lodges with a fully equipped kitchen. There are exciting camping and caravan sites which are well sheltered by acacia trees were cooking on wood fires draws the visitor to ancient memories of the history of mankind .

Other Attractions

Mount Nyangani – Zimbabwe’s highest point at 2 593 metres offers a challenging climb and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Nyangombe Falls – a beautiful series of cascading waterfalls located on the western edge of the Park, a 15 minute walk from the carpark.

Mutarazi Falls – Mutarazi Falls is the highest waterfall in Zimbabwe and the second highest on the Continent. Visitors may leave their vehicles at the carpark and take a short hike to the edge of the escarpment for spectacular views of the waterfalls and the Honde Valley, some 800 metres below.

Pungwe Gorge & Falls – view the Pungwe Falls from the scenic Pungwe viewpoint or drive through the Pungwe Drift for a closer view of the river and lush forest areas around.

Nyangwe & Chawomera Forts – massive stone work with lintelled entrances characterize these fine examples of Nyanga ruins built some 400 years ago. Pit structures are also located within the Park.

Trout Hatchery – the trout hatchery near Purdon Dam provides an up-close view of the source of game fish stocked in many of the Park’s rivers and dams.

Nyamuziwa Falls – located just off the circular drive to Mt. Nyangani, Nyamuziwa Falls is a beautiful cascade waterfall with open highland scenery.

Rhodes Museum – the Rhodes Museum is found at the Rhodes Hotel

Activities

Fly fishing – the finest fly fishing in Zimbabwe can be found in many of the Park’s well stocked rivers and lakes including Mare, Udu, Rhodes, Gulliver and Purdon Dams. Bream fishing is also available at Udu Dam.

Boating – another favorite activity – rowing boats can be hired at each dam

Swimming – visitors can swim at Nyangombe pool where the clear, crisp Nyangombe River spills over natural rock slides. Visitors can also relax on the sandy beaches.

Hiking trails, birding & walks – numerous trails and paths provide lovely walks through both the forest areas and open highlands, many leading to beautiful waterfalls and scenic vistas.

Game viewing –This activity is open to the public all year round. Gates are open for game viewing daily from 0600hrs until 1800hrs. All clients are only allowed to enter the park when driving. Walking and cycling are strictly prohibited unless with express authority and only in the company of a designated park officer. Clients are allowed to drive around the park on their own using designated roads only.

The main and most sought out activity at the park; fishing is conducted all year round. There are 5 fishing and picnic sites in the park.

Recreational activities include yachting, boating, rowing, angling and canoeing.

 Activities

The park is just about 10 minutes drives from the Nyanga town were banks, hospitals, supermarkets, pharmacies, and other social facilities are found.

From Harare- take the Harare Mutare Road for 170 km to Rusape and turn left. From Rusape, follow the Nyanga road for 90 km and turn right at the main park entrance. From Mutare- take Harare- Mutare road for 11 km and turn right at Juliasdale road. Follow this road for 85 km to the end and turn right towards Nyanga village and then right at the main park entrance.

Matobo meaning ‘bald heads’ was the name chosen for the area by the great Ndebele King, Mzilikazi. He is buried in the Matobo Hills just a short distance from the park.

The park is situated in the magnificent Matobo Hills, a range of domes, spires and balancing rock formations which have been hewn out of the solid granite plateau through millions of years of erosion and weathering. The majestic and rugged terrain of the park is a hikers paradise and the diversity of the vegetation supports a wide range of wildlife.

Matobo National Park is also the site of the grave of Cecil John Rhodes. He is buried at the summit of Malindidzimu -’ hill of benevolent spirits’. He referred to this hill as having a ‘View of the World’. A short walk from the parking lot will lead the visitor to his grave, which is carved out of the solid granite hill and surrounded by a natural amphitheatre of massive boulders.

The Matobo area has great spiritual and cultural significance to the local people and there are many sites within the park where important ceremonies still take place.

Wildlife

The Park is home to a wide variety of animal species including: black and white rhinoceros, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, kudu, eland, sable, klipspringer, leopard, hyena, cheetah, hippo, warthog, rock dassies, waterbuck, wildcat, springhare, common duiker, crocodiles, baboons and monkeys.

The richness of the Park can also be seen from the diverse bird life. The park is famous for its large concentration of black eagles, which can be seen perched atop the rock formations or soaring along the cliffs in search of prey. Bird species that can be found include, fish eagle, martial eagle, francolin, secretary bird, weavers, pied crow and Egyptian geese.

Fish species readily found in this Park include, bass, bottle fish, bream, catfish and robustus.

Matobo National Park has a mixed type of vegetation that ranges from Mopane, Acacia species, Brachstegia in other area, Figtrees, Azanza species, Zizphus species, Strychnos species and Terminalia species.

Accommodation

Accommodation facilites are located at Whitewaters, Tshabalala Sanctuary, Toghwana, Hazelside and Mtsheleli. Maleme Rest Camp provides accommodation in the form of chalets and lodges and it is by far the largest rest area in the Park.

Some of the lodges have 4 single beds and others have 1 double bed and 2 singles. All lodges are equipped either dressing tables or wardrobes, dinning rooms with tables, chairs, heaters, flush toilet and bathrooms with cold and hot water.

Fish Eagle -This is a 2 bedroomed lodge with 5 beds i.e. one double and one single bed, one bedroom with 2 single beds all with linen, 2 dressing tables. The kitchen has a fridge, 4 plate stove, electric kettle, crockery and cutlery. The lodge has a flush toilet, bathroom with tub and hot shower, veranda, garden table and chairs.

Black Eagle -This is a 2 bed roomed lodge with 5 beds i.e. one double and one single bed, one bedroom with 2 single beds all with linen, 2 dressing tables. The kitchen has a fridge, 4 plate stove, electric kettle, crockery and cutlery. The lodge has a flush toilet, bathroom with tub and hot shower, veranda, garden table and chairs.

Imbila –has standard accommodation with 2 bedrooms containing 2 double teak beds. Each bedroom has 4-seater teak easy chairs. There are 2 ensuite bathrooms and flush toilets. The dinning room has a teak table. The veranda overlooking the river has a garden table and chairs. The kitchen has a fridge, 4 plate stove, crockery and cultlery supplied.

Camping sites are available at Maleme Dam, Mthselele Dam, Toghwana Dam, Mesilume Dam and Arboretum.

Other Tourist Attractions

Fine rock paintings – within the park are numerous sites which were once occupied by the San hunter-gatherers. The paintings at Nswatugi Cave are perhaps some of the finest in the country and contain beautiful renditions of giraffe, eland and kudu.

There are other areas of note such as Bambata Cave, Inanke Cave and Silozwane Cave – just outside the park – that display fine animal paintings.

Pony trails – conducted around the Maleme Dam area and into the Whovi Wild Area.

Fishing – allowed in most dams to those issued with licences at the tourist office

Boating – privately owned boats are permitted on certain dams

Access

The park is located 34 kilometres south of Bulawayo along the Kezi/Maphisa Road. The Main road to Maleme is tarred while all other Park roads are gravel and mostly in good condition. Durintg the rainy season the road to Toghwana requires 4 wheel drive vehicles.

The Baboon Trees-This is a unique feature of the Park which attracts large volumes of animals. The area has natural water springs and large concentrations of animals. Sightings of up to 2000 buffalo have been reported in the area.

Wildlife

The Park includes a series of pan depressions, some of which are continuously pumped from boreholes in the dry season. As a result, large concentrations of game seasonally migrate between Botswana and Zimbabwe, especially from September through to the first rains of November or December.

Species to be seen include: lion, leopard, giraffe, zebra, gemsbok, roan, sable, tsessebe, eland and reedbuck, whilst elephant and buffalo are present in large numbers when water is scarce. White rhino are also often seen.

A special species endemic to the Kazuma Depression is the oribi, a small antelope, not often seen in other parts of the country. Visitors may also occasionally see cheetah or wild dog while lions are fairly common.

The pan systems are also ideal habitat to a large variety of water birds, with a number of species including storks, crowned cranes, stilts, cormorants, ducks and kingfishers occurring throughout the area.

Travel Guide

Access

Take the Robins Camp/ Pandamatenga turn-off from the main Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road . proceed for some 25 kilometres along this gravel road to the Parks & Wildlife offices in Matetsi where visitors are required to check-in before proceeding. The journey is continued along the Pandamatenga road for a further 39 kilometres to the border post.

These roads are gravel and can be rough. As access to Kazuma is along the Zimbabwe/ Botswana border road, visitors are again asked to check-in with the Zimbabwe Republic Police at Pandamatenga. Kazuma Pan National Park is some 25 kilometres further along, north-west of Pandamatenga.

Access may only be made by four wheel drive vehicles as the roads are rough and sandy in some areas. Access via Kazungula is strictly prohibited.

 Best time to go

Kazuma Pan National Park is closed to the public in January and February each year due to the wet conditions over this period that make the roads impassable. The best time ot go on game safaris and drives in during the dry season from September to December. Bird watching is good during the dry season.

Hotels and Accommodation

There are two camp sites available in the park. Only two groups of visitors are allowed to camp in the Park at any one time. The camp sites each have bush toilets, braai points and water supplies. Each camp site can comfortably take 10 persons.

These sites are located in different habitats: Insiza, which overlooks the Kazuma Depression and Kasetsheti, near some natural springs.

Alternative folklore suggests the are was named for the herbalists who would stock their medicines in tusks (known as gona in the Shona language).

Three major rivers – The Save, Runde and Mwenezi – cut their courses through the Park, forming pools and natural oases from which hundreds of species of birds, wildlife and fish gather to feed and drink. As its name implies, Gonarezhou is famous for its elephants, and many of the largest-tusked elephants in the region maybe found within the Park.

The Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park (GLTP)

Gonarezhou National Park is part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park (GLTP), a massive Pan-African Park that includes South Africa‘s famed Kruger National Park and Mozambique‘s Gaza National Park(Limpopo park) . This huge area is set to become one of the finest “peace parks” in the world and is dedicated to conservation, biodiversity and the economic development of the surrounding local communities. The vast and diverse nature of the mega-park will provide world-class eco-tourism to the visitor and strive to re-establish historical animal migration routes and fragile regional ecosystems.

The combined Park will include more than 500 species of birds, 147 species of mammals, at least 116 species of reptiles, 34 species of frogs and 49 species of fish.

Wildlife

Lion, leopard, cheetah (including the rare king cheetah), buffalo, giraffe, zebra and many species of large antelope are also present within the Park. The rare nyala and smaller suni are two of the highlights of the Park’s smaller antelopes. In addition, hundreds of species of birds may be spotted in the Park. Unique species of aquatic wildlife such as the Zambezi Shark, Freshwater Goby, Black Bream and the unique turquoise killifish can be seen within the Park’s rivers and pools.

Chilojo Cliffs

One of the most prominent and enduring natural features of Gonarezhou National Park is the beautiful Chilojo Cliffs. These magnificent red sandstone cliffs have been formed through eons of erosion and overlook the scenic Runde River valley.

Best time to go

Gonarezhou experiences mild, dry winters and warm, wet summers (temperatures in excess of 40 degrees Celcius can occasionally be expected). Mabalauta and Chipinda areas are open throughout the year. During the rainy season (November – April), access to certain parts of the Park is restricted and the visitor should consult with the Park’s offices before undertaking game drives.

Bilharzia is endermic to all lowveld rivers and visitors should take appropriate precaution. In addition, malaria can be present within the region so visitors are advised to take prophylactics before, during and after their stay in the Park.

Hotels and Accommodation

Mabalauta was once a communal area until the 1960s when it became a game reserve. It was later declared a national park in 1975 when it became part of Gonarezhou. The name Mabalauta hails from a hardwood tree species common in the region. The Mabalauta section in the Mwenezi sub-region includes the Swimuwini rest camp, “The place of the Baobabs”. The camp is situated 8 kilometres from the warden’s office and overlooks the the Mwenezi River. There are thatched self-catering accommodation facilities at the camp.

There are 19 sites at the beautiful Chipinda Pools Camp, each with basic shelter, braai area and ablution facilities. Camps with minimum facilities are located at Nyahungwe, Madumbini, Bopomela, Lisoda, Gota, Chitove, Chamaluvati and Chilojo. These exclusive sites may be booked by a single party of up to 10 people and there are no attendants available. Visitors need to bring their own water. Dead wood in the vicinity may be collected for firewood.

Travel and Access

Chipinda Pools (Runde and Save sub-region)

Follow the main tarred road from the Chirediz turn-off to Mutare for 18 kilometres. Turn off to the south at the Chipinda Pools sign post. Follow the gravel road for approximately 34 kilometres to the entrance of the Park, about 59 kilometres from Chiredzi.

Mabalauta (Mwenezi sub-region)

Turn east off the main Masvingo – Beitbrifge road at the Mwenezi Police Station turn-off, about 20 kilometres south of Rutenga. Proceed down the the dirt road about 3 kilometres and turn left at the entrance to the Police Station – the signboard indicates Mwenezi Ranch HQ and Chikombedzi. Follow this road for about 60 kilometres to Chikombedzi Business Centre. Do not turn off this road. The road you take follows the Mwenezi River southeast from the Mwenezi Police Station to Chikombedzi (the river will not be visible from the road).

The only major intersection you will encounter is 20 kilometres from the Mwenezi Police Station and is signposted. Head straight through the intersection to Chikombedzi. Turn right after entering Chikombedzi Business Centre at a 4-way intersection where a National Parks sign indicates the route to Gonarezhou, Mabalauta, Right. About 300 metres down the road another sign indicates the route – turn left. Follow this road around a small dam and DO NOT turn off it.

About 6 kilometrees further you will pass Zhou School and 3 kilometres later you will come to Gonarezhou Natioonal Park boundary. The route from there to the Warden’s Office, Mabalauta is clearly signposted. The total distance from the Masvingo – Beitbridge Road to Mabalauta is 105 kilometres.

This large remote area of 192 000 hectares of wild, untouched flora and fauna is endowed with magnificent gorges, plateaus and flood plains, which make this pristine park a spectacular destination for any visitor. Because of its wild and remote nature, the tranquility and rugged beauty of Chizarira National Pak is indeed unequalled.

Chizarira takes its name from the word “sijalila” meaning “great barrier” in the local Tonga dialect. The magnificent range of mountains which are part of the Zambezi Escarpment form the Park’s western border and offer challenging hiking and spectacular views of the valley below. The Park is renowned for its walking trails which offer the visitor an unparalleled opportunity to getup-close to nature.

Wildlife

Most of the plains game are present in Chizarira National Park, along with bigger species such as elephant, lion, leopard and buffalo. There are also many species of smaller game, including the klipsringer, famous for its ability to inhabit rocky outcrops.

Chizarira offers an abundance of unique bird life and several hundreds of species have been sighted within the Park. The Big Five birds of the area include: the African Broadbill, Livingstone’s Flycatcher, Yellowspotted Nicator, Emerald Cuckoo and the rare and elusive Angola Pitta. Chizarira is also home to the Taita Falcon which make its nests within the Park.

Best time to go

The Park is usually open to visitors all year round, with restrictions on local movement being imposed during the wet season.

Accommodation

Chizarira National Parks has 7 exclusive bush camps for the real wildlife enthusiasts. Each of the camps is usually limited to a party of 12 persons.

Mucheni View Camp- Located on the edge of the Zambezi Escarpment and offers a spectacular view of the Zambezi Valley floor with a perpetual cool breeze that makes one want to stay forever. Facilities include a thatched shelter, a long drop toilet and braai stand. Water may be obtained from the Park headquarters 4 kilometres away.

Mucheni Gorge Camp-Situated on the edge of one of the beautiful gorges that are so characteristic of Chizarira. There is a thatched shelter, a long drop and braai stand. Water is available from the Parks headquarters 3.5 kilometers away.

The Platform-This is a bush camp with a long drop and game viewing platform overlooking a favourite watering place for elephant, waterbuck, buffalo, kudu, impala, zebra, and many other animal species found within the Park.

 Busi Camp-Situated 40 kilometres away from the Park headquarters, surrounded by miles of untamed wilderness. It is situated on the scenic Busi River and is home to large herds of buffalo and elephant. Lions also favour Busi. It is the true African Bush camp dominated by Acacia albida flood plains. Road access to this camp is very rough and 4 x 4 or other high clearance vehicles are necessary.

Kaswiswi  Camp-Situated on the upper reaches of the Rwizilukulu River , 6 kilometres from the Park headquarters. The camp is equipped with a water-borne ablution block, braai stand and raised pole and thatch bedrooms called “Ngazi” styled after the traditional shelters of the local Tonga tribe.

Travel and Access

There are three main routes by road into Chizarira National Park.

From Victoria Falls take the Bulawayo Road and turn left toward Kamativi at Cross Dete. From Kamativi follow the Binga Road and turn right along the Siabuwa road at the 133 kilometre peg. Follow this dirt road and turn right at the 47 kilometre peg where there is a sign indicating “Chizarira National Park”. This undulating road leads you up the escarpment for 20 kilometres to the Park headquarters.

If you are using the Harare-Bulawayo Highway, one turns toward Gokwe at Kwekwe. At Gokwe take the Binga tarred road for 120 kilometres until you reach a T-junction with a sign post indicating Binga to the left. Take this dirt road towards Binga via Siabuwa Busness Centre until you see a sign indicating “Chizarira National Park” at the 47 kilometre peg. Turn left and proceed for 20 kilometres to the Park headquarters.

From Bulawayo, along the Victoria Falls road, turn off at Gwayi River on the Lubumbi road at the 246 kilometre peg. Follow the road for 96 kilometres towards Lusulu and turn left at the sign post written “Chizarira National Park” the Park headquarters is 70 kilometres beyond this sign.

Wildlife

Wildlife species found in this area include eland, sable, bushbuck, blue duiker, klipspringer and an occasional leopard.

Forest lovers are will take delight in the virgin forests of the area. The thick, moist, evergreen forest that is found here is rare. Several species of butterfly, birds, plants, snakes and shy cats are commonly seen.

There are no roads in this wild area and only footpaths and narrow tracks lead to the various places of interest. This adds to the fun of the wild and unspoilt character of the area.

Facilities & Attractions

The Mountain Hut Chimanimani Mountains

There is a hut at 1630m above sea level that is not furnished. This hut acts as a refuge and rest point. It may be used on a communal basis and can not be used by an individual party exclusively. The ablution and cooking facilities are ideal for up to 20 visitors. However, daring visitors have the option of spending the night in either Terry’s or Peter’s caves (disused mine shafts).

Hikers to the summit are usually encouraged to take either of two routes. Experienced hikers will find The Bailly’s Folly a worthwhile challenge, while the aspiring hikers are best advised to take The Banana Grove.

Hotels and Accommodation

Visitors are also allowed to camp free of charge anywhere within the park except at the Base Camp. However, it should be noted that such camping is at the visitors’ own risk.

The Base Camp

The Base Camp is available for limited numbers of visitors wishing to spend the night at the foot of the Mountains. There is a car park, an information office and ablution facilities at the base camp.

Visitors will have to pay the prevailing camping rates for use of this facility.Visitors are also allowed to camp free of charge anywhere within the park except at the Base Camp. However, it should be noted that such camping is at the visitors’ own risk.

Bridal Veil Falls Chimanimani Bridal Veil

A picnic site is located at the base of the Bridal Veil Falls in The Eland Sanctuary. The sanctuary itself offers spectacular views of the Porkpie mountain range and The Bridal Veil Falls which plunge 50 metres down into a base about 10 metres wide.

The Corner Camp

Hikers who do not like the physical challenge posed by the trails to the mountain hut may prefer this area. This area borders the Chikukwa rural village. Visitors can relax at the picnic site at the base of the Muhohwa Falls or take a plunge in the cool crocodile free pools along the Muhohwa River.

Other attractions in this area include viewing the rare Barrosus Palm tree and the unique rock formation of the Mawenje Mountain. Visitors to this part may also look forward to viewing the Nyakwaha and Haroni Botanical Reserves, as well as the Haroni and Mukurupiri waterfalls.

Access

Access to the foot of the mountain range can be made by car from Chimanimani village. The gravel road can be described as fair and gives the visitor access to the base camp some 19 kilometres from the village. The game scout on duty will advise visitors on the best route to take into the mountains. These paths climb from the Base Camp at 1250m above sea level to the refuge hut which is situated on the West bank of the Bundi River about 1630m above sea level. Two or three hours should be allowed for this walk by any one unused to mountain walking.

There are many tourist attractions in Zimbabwe, which include wildlife safari parks, Victoria Falls, botanical gardens and also beautiful suburbs. Looking for a great and also updated Zimbabwe travel guidebook, proficient travel and tour agents can assist you in choosing how to spend a Zimbabwe safari holiday, where to go, where to stay and the activities you’ll enjoy doing.

Zimbabwe Safari attractions

Wildlife Safaris usually are a very good way to enjoy the untamed side of Zimbabwe. Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest game park with significant herds of African elephants. Experience this beautiful park on a guided Elephant Back safari through the acacia woodlands, thick savannah bushes and across the Zambezi River on the ride and visit nearby Victoria Falls. Other sights on the trails include lions, zebras, rhino, buffalo, eland, sable antelopes, waterbuck, leopard and over 400 different birds.

Not far away from Lake Kariba is Mana Pools National Park. This small park remains mystical and is rarely visited on Zimbabwe safaris and tours. Canoe rides cross the park over Mana pools on the banks of river Zambezi and enjoy the scene of schools of hippos, elephants on the banks, antelopes and birds like kingfishers, the endangered black eagles and fish eagles.

Sport fishing on the river Zambezi is another adventure as catches include record sizes of tiger fish. The river is also site for bungee jumping, canoeing, white water rafting and other water sports. Catch the thrill of Victoria falls, Zimbabwe’s prime attraction with awesome sights during the rainy season. Down the river is Lake Kariba popular for luxury house boating trips, spectacular sights of small islands, fewer game on the shores and birds here and there.

Make it part of you safari in Zimbabwe to visit the beautiful rugged landscape that border Zimbabwe to the east. The rugged mountains are covered in lush rain forests, spectacular wildlife sights like antelopes which extend to further into Mozambique.

Bulawayo is the second biggest city of Zimbabwe and is particularly an old and crowded social centre with many tourist points, restaurants, museums, hotels and scent of outdated buildings. Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital city is another interesting city with beautiful buildings, tree lined streets and several gift/ curio shops.

Even with fewer places to visit, Zimbabwe safari holidays have a wide range of hotels and accommodation, guesthouses, holiday inn, bed and breakfast facilities and luxury safari lodges in Zimbabwe. There are many online Zimbabwe traveling packages that may include things like lodging at a luxury spa and resort.

With regard to adventurous tourists, Zimbabwe backpacking and camping tours are offered. Hiking around the extraordinary landscapes of Zimbabwe in the eastern highlands is usually a wonderful trip at the end of the day. You’ll find good overnight facilities in Harare Zimbabwe hotels, Hwange national park has accommodation in Ivory lodge, Makalolo plains camp and Sikumi Tree lodges. Victoria Falls’ sights are good from Zambezi River lodge, elephant hills lodge, Victoria Falls hotel, Victoria Falls safari lodge and from Gorges lodge. Travel and transfer within Zimbabwe are handled and prepared in your Zimbabwe safari packages by either your hotel or Zimbabwe tour operator. Private car hire are another option for adventure Zimbabwe safari. Make sure you have / buy a good Zimbabwe travel handbook or map.

Victoria Falls Zimbabwe is very impressive especially during the rainy season that runs from November to March when the gorge fills up with white water sheet and misty clouds sighted some 7m from the site itself. For April to October, the water level falls to revel part of the rock and forming many small waterfalls on the gorge…spectacular sight!

Flights to Harare Zimbabwe

Harare the capital city has numerous attractions among them; ruined buildings and the international airport. Harare International Airport has a number of international and regional flight schedules.

Air Zimbabwe the National carrier has direct flights from European cities like Heathrow (London). South African Airways has one stop flights to Zimbabwe via Johannesburg and so do British Airways and Kenya Airways.

Other small airlines to Harare Zimbabwe with cheap flights include Lufthansa, Ethiopian Airways, KLM, Eagle Air from Entebbe Uganda, Virgin Atlantic Airline, Air France to Paris and others.

Book cheap flights to Harare Zimbabwe with a Zimbabwe travel and tour operator or online through a travel agency for cheap air tickets, airfares, discounted accommodation and hotels and other  budget options

some of the best Zimbabwe Tour Operators and agents include;

Acacia Safaris
lmrensburg@hotmail.com
L M Rensburg
+263 (0)54 222360
58 – 5th St, Gweru

Bouna Safaris
marimajj@gmail.com
J Marima
+263 (0)4 739183
15 Canterbury Rd, Avondale, Harare

Bulembi Safaris
martin@bulembisafaris.com
M Pieters
+263 (0)9 67792
Box 1684, Bulawayo

Bushman Safaris
bushman@netconnect.co.zw
T Bronkhorst
+263 (0)9 280737
Box AC790, Bulawayo

Chapungu Safaris
townsend@zol.co.zw
R Townsend
+263 (0)64 7019
Box 587, Karoi

Charlton McCallum Safaris
buzzandmyles@cmsafaris.com
+2634499536
5 Lindrew Close, Chisipite

Chinyika Ranch Safaris
chinyika@mweb.co.zw
K King
+263 (0)55 24325
Box 232, KweKwe

Chishakwe / Rovambira
management@chishakwe.com
N Muller
+263 (0)24 446
Box 47, Birchenough Bridge

Dabula Safaris
trevorlane@iwayafrica.com
T Lane
+263 (0)11 208394
Box 210, Victoria Falls

Dindingwe Safaris
dindingwe@ingwesafaris.com
I Rutledge
+263 (0)55 201291
Box 908, KweKwe

Fair Range Estates
djnaude@iwayafrica.com
J Naude
+263 (0)31 3093
Box 108, Chiredzi

Gariya Safaris
mbondo@africaonline.co.zw
C Rajah
+263 (0)9 66915
Box FM102, Famona, Bulawayo

HHK Safaris
graham@hhksafaris.com
G Hingeston
+263 (0)4 499242

Hippo Valley Safaris
safaris@hippo.co.zw
G Baldwin
+263 (0)31 5151
Box 1, Chiredzi

Hwange Safaris
mia@ecoweb.co.zw
Mrs Tapera
+263 (0)4 668591
Box 4231, Harare

Ingwe Safaris
admin@ingwesafaris.com
W G R Bedford
+263 (0)4 860292
Box MP1245, Mt Pleasant, Harare

Inyathi Hunters
jfmudenda@huntinyathi.com
J F Mudenda
+263 (0)9 78085
Box 3654, Bulawayo

Jimba Safaris
wayned@zol.co.zw
W Dietrechsen
+263 (0)9 64518
50 Hampshire Rd, Hillcrest, Bulawayo

Lalapansi Safaris
lalapsaf@mweb.co.zw
B Matiwaza
+263 (0)9 70015

Lowveld Hunters
lowveldhunt@zol.co.zw
J P S Meyer
+263 (0) 862442
Box BW1859, Borrowdale, Harare

Makuti Game Safaris
efundira@makuti.co.zw
E Fundira
+263 (0)4 748391
Box BW262, Borrowdale, Harare

Malilangwe Trust
colin@malilangwe.org
C Wenham
+263 (0)31 2391
P Bag 7085, Chiredzi

Matupula Safaris
matupula@matupula.co.zw
M Butcher
+263 (0)9 65026
Box 767, Bulawayo

Mazunga Safaris
mazunga@iwayafrica.com
B Leatham
+263 (0)11 610023
Box CH850, Chisipite, Harare

Mbalabala Safaris
mbalasaf@yoafrica.com
www.mbalabalasafaris.com
C & P Stanton
+263 (0)9 241520
Box 9061, Hillside, Bulawayo

Mokore Safaris
mokore@mokore.com
B & J Duckworth
+263 (0)4 993462
+263 772 279172
7 Stable Cl, Borrowdale, Harare

National Safaris
joe@nationalsafaris.com
J Wright +263 (0)4 882856 Box 10191, Harare

Nengasha Safaris
nengasha@gatorzw.co.zw
P Bennie +263 (0)9 240995
Box 9084, Hillside, Bulawayo

Ngamo Safaris
pili@ngamosafaris.co.zw S
Ngwenya +263 (0)9 772424
Box 467, Bulawayo Norzim

Bush Treks
norzim@zol.co.zw
W Schultz +263 (0)61 3647
Box 188, Kariba
Pro-Safaris Africa
prosaf@yoafrica.com
F Muller +263 (0)9 236894
Box AC577, Ascot, Bulawayo

Roger Whitthal Safaris
humanisafaris@zol.co.zw
R Whittal +263 (0)24 213 P
Bag 7020, Chiredzi

Rosslyn Safaris
rosslyn@netconnect.co.zw
P A Johnstone +263 (0)9 244155
Box 9057, Hillside, Bulawayo

Safadec Services
chenais@safadec.co.zw
C Svinurayi +263(0)4 755238
Box 2482, Harare

Safari Trackers
rustysaf@mweb.co.zw
C Campbell +263(0)9 286503 21
Fortunes Gate, Bulawayo

Save Safaris
leon@savesafaris.com
L Duplessis +263 (0)11 413874
Box 66083, Kopje, Harare

Sentinel Limpopo Safaris
dbristow@limpopo.co.za
V & D Bristow +263 (0)86 22296
Box 45, Beitbridge

Shangaan Hunters
clives@senuko.com
C G Stockil +263 (0)31 7242
P Bag 7138, Chiredzi

SSG Safaris
sengwesafaris@zol.co.zw
N Dzingai +263 (0)31 5149 29
Impala Drive, Chiredzi

Threeway Safaris
threewaysafaris@gmail.com
T Van Der Merwe +263(0)14 359
Box 110, Beitbridge

Track A Hunt Safaris
tahsafaris@zol.co.zw
C Ferreira +263(0)64 6760
Box 159, Karoi

Tshabezi Ranching
drogerszim@gmail.com
D Rogers +263(0)16 318
Box 35, West Nicholson

Tuli Hunters
thunters@mweb.co.zw
T Nkomo +263 (0)9 886284 6
Aida Court, Windsor Park, 16th Ave, Famona, Byo

Van Der Reit Safaris
joe@nationalsafaris.com
J C Wright +263 (0)4 882856 Box 10191, Harare
Wesango Safaris
wesango@mweb.co.zw
A Munyoro +263 (0)4 490095 33
Huyton Rd, Mandara, Harare

Zambezi Hunters
alistair@zambezihunters.com
A Pole +263 (0)4 882211
Box BW1330, Borrowdale, Harare

The small town of Kariba Heights is carefully situated 600 meters above the lake and primarily services the population who come here for boating, fishing & to enjoy lakeside holidays. Kariba town exists because the Lake exists and the Lake has an interesting history

Kariba Dam Facts

Way back in the 1930’s the idea of a hydroelectric scheme on the mighty Zambezi was formed but it was not until 1950 that the work began. New settlements were made for the BaTonga people of the valley though they hated to leave their homes and abandon Nyaminyami, their River God.

In 1959 the 128m high concrete dam wall was complete and the plains began to flood. Today Lake Kariba stretches for 290km, is 42kms wide at its widest point and it has an average depth of 18 meters. One of Africa’s most ambitious projects came to life when Queen Elizabeth officially started the generators on May 16th, 1960.

Lake Kariba Zambezi Activities

Lake Kariba Zambia and in Zimbabwe is Tiger Fish territory; the Tiger is a renowned fighting fish that can reach 15kg in weight. Lake Kariba supports an annual Tiger fishing competition that is immensely popular and centers around the town of Kariba. Other catches include sardines and Kapenta

Kariba Lake Canoe safaris and rides are also offered on Lake Kariba and lower Zambezi arranged by many Lake Kariba safari lodges like Camp Zambezi near Mana Pools and many other safari lodges. From the Lake Kariba Dam, one has unparallaled view of the magnificent Victoria Falls on the Zambia Side.

Operation Noah came about just after the dam was completed and the waters began to rise. The aim was to rescue wild animals that became trapped on high ground as the waters rose. By the end of 1959 over 6,000 animals including elephant, antelope, rhino, lion, leopard, zebra, warthog, small birds and even snakes had been rescued. They were trapped, darted and transported by boat to safety and set free again. Some swam to safety after being herded into the waters; others such as rhino were trussed to rafts and taken to the lake edges.

For game viewing at Lake Kariba head to the Matusadona National Park Zimbabwe across the Lake or the Kuburi Wilderness Area just east of the town. Other neighboring Game parks and attractions include Mana Pools, Chizara, Zambezi valley, Siavonga Zambia and Chirundu Fossil forest Zambia among others.

How to get there

From Lusaka, lake Kariba Zambia is only 3 hours to Siavonga via the scenery of Zambezi valley. Drive 18km from the Chirundu to the Zimbabwe border. From Harare Zimbabwe, Kariba is a 5 hour drive and is accessed by private charter using Air Zimbabwe or by private charter by pre-booking. By road, travel via Binga-Magunge road via Bulawayo-Victoria Falls main road.

Sunsets on Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba Houseboating

Houseboats are an interesting traditional way to spend your Zambezi Africa safari under the African sun, typical African sunsets and mornings filled with chirping birds. There are several hotels and safari lodges offering Lake Kariba Houseboats conditional on Pre-booking.

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s biggest game reserve and covers 14,651 sq km south west Zimbabwe between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls. The Park’s saltpans, Kalahari Desert sand, acacia woodlands and grassy plains support an abundance of game, but this has not always been so the Zambezi river has been a source of life within the park.

The park has an interesting variety of landscapes with one part running alongside the North-eastern end of the Kalahari Desert. The south is sandy with extensive forests and open grassland. A feature of the area is ancient fossil dunes – ancient sand dunes held together by vegetation.

Hwange park history

Hwange came about almost by chance – Hwange was an early African chief who was ousted by the invading Ndebele people and huge areas of his land was taken over for hunting. White settlers arriving in Zimbabwe continued on the hunting practice but with less challenging weapons.

As the human population pressures increased, the country’s animals were pushed further and further into the inhospitable western reaches of the country where Hwange lies and finally it was realised the game was worth protecting. Seventy years ago it was proclaimed Wankie National Park and with independence its name was changed to Hwange Zimbabwe National Park.

Hwange Wildlife safaris

Hwange Zimbabwe Game park is home to several herds of wildlife with great herds of buffalo and elephants, leopards, lions and hippos. Other predominant species include giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, lion, cheetah, Painted Hunting Dog, kudu, hyena, Impala, Roan Antelope, Waterbuck, Tsessebe, Black-backed Jackal and Bat-eared Fox.  Enjoy the park’s wildlife on wilderness trails, safari walks, game drives and fishing

This is also one of the best places in Africa to see the beautiful and elusive Sable Antelope. In all Hwange is home to over 100 species of mammal and 400 species of birds. Not far from Sinamatella camp are water holes that attract many animals and birds. Mandavu, Detema and Masuma dam have unequalled game viewing.

SidindaSafari lodge-Hwange Zimbabwe National Park

Generally, there are no seasonal animal migrations. The best time to view wildlife is during the dry season, from July to October, when the game concentrates near permanent water. Game viewing is also good during May, June and November and fairly good from December through April. During the rainy season, from January to March, the game is widely dispersed.

Hwange National Park accommodation

Main Camp is actually the most popular camp site with self catering lodges, cottages, grass thatched cottages, well stocked bar, restaurants, curio shops and many other facilities. Game viewing is excellent around this camp with several pans and waterholes often visited by different animals during the dry season.

Other popular Game lodges in Hwange National park include Ivory lodge with 6 luxurious thatched chalet suites. Flame Tree lodge and Wild Geese Lodge offer splendid service although they are some 100km form Hwange park.

Find exclusive camping and backpacking at Bumbusi Camp located a few kilometers from Sinamatella , a former cattle ranch with 4 overnight units, self catering kitchen and en-suite bathrooms. Other camps include Lukosi camp, Bush Camp and Robins camp.

How to get there

There is an airstrip near Main Camp if you are travelling by charter aircraft but you need prior bookings at the camp. Using the road, the park is accessed on 4wd via any of the safari camps; from Main Camp-it is 254km on main road from Bulawayo to Victoria falls, from Sinamatella camp, the park is just 45km of gravel road from Bulawayo-Victoria falls road.

Established in 1963 Mana Pools National Park is located on Zimbabwe’s northern border, on the banks of the Zambezi River. The Park is rich in wildlife and its 2,190 sq kms are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mana means ‘four’, in reference to the four large permanent pools of Main, Chine, Long and Chisambik formed by the meanderings of the Zambezi River at the middle stage. These pools were formed as the river’s course slowly drifted northward. Reeds, sandbanks, and huge Mahogany and Acacia trees near the river give way to Ebonies, wild figs, Baobabs, and finally to dense Mopane woodland towards the Park’s southern boundary.

Mana Pools safari

Mana Pools is ranked as one of Africa’s outstanding wildlife reserves and during the winter months it has the highest concentration of hippos and crocodiles on African Safari Game parks. Huge herds of elephant and buffalo as well as lion, hyena, kudu, impala, waterbuck, zebra, Painted Hunting Dog, leopard, jackal, the rare Nyala and a huge variety of wildlife are drawn to the permanent waters of the River Chitake and lower Zambezi.

Vegetation diversity and permanent water attracts a bird population that is both varied and abundant and the River is home to the country’s highest concentration of hippo and crocodiles. Sadly however, poaching has denuded what was once the densest population of the endangered Black Rhinoceros in the world

Bird life is wonderful with inquisitive yellow-billed kites swooping down to have a look at you and other raptors and vultures circling high in the thermals. Carmine bee-eaters flit about in a purple blur as they emerge from the sandbank pitted with their nesting holes.

Activities

Mana Pools is also a popular Park for walking safaris and the eastern portion has been designated a wilderness area in which only walking and canoeing are allowed. There are no roads or other signs of man.

For the adventurous traveller, a Mana Pools canoe safari is a great way to get close to nature. Paddling down stream towards Mozambique, passing great herds of game without feeling like an intruder, your guide explains how to dodge territorial hippos and how to deal with the elephants that visit your camp by night. Each canoe ride is accompanied by trained, experienced and competent guides ensuring your safety

Mana pools accommodation is available in luxury bush camps, lodges with spectacular views of the Zambezi river. Chikwenya and Ruckomechi Safari camps offer bush walks, game drives and canoe rides where you’ll find several schools of Hippos.

The best time to visit the park for wildlife viewing is at the end of the dry season from June to October when large numbers of elephant, buffalo, waterbuck and impala come to the river to drink and graze along its banks. Game viewing is also very good in June and July. During the rainy season November to March much of the game moves off away from the river towards the escarpment.

Matusadona National Park is situated on the southern shore of Lake Kariba Zimbabwe and is bounded on the east by the dramatic Sanyati Gorge and to the west by the Umi River. Two thirds of this 1500 km² national park is accessible only on foot.

Matusadona is a melodic word for Mutuzviadonha it actually means “constant dripping of dung” in reference to the huge elephant population that roams the Park and shores of Lake Kariba. Before the construction of Lake Kariba, Mustadonna was a vast wilderness with diverse flora and fauna habitats. The park is now covered in grasslands along the lake shore, thick motane woodland, deep valleys and escarpments.

Mustadonna Safaris

Matusadona National park is a great spot for guided game walks and its drowned forests, relics of the flooded dam, provide irresistible sunset photo opportunities. Interesting activities include Hiking and escarpment climbing, birding, walking trails, canoe rides and fishing on Lake Kariba

Wildlife in Mustadonna National Park

The Lake Kariba shoreline is also home to large concentrations of buffalo, waterbuck, impala, klispringer, duiker, gemsbok, waterbuck, scrub hare, porcupines and zebra, especially during the dry months from May to October giving you the best of game viewing on Zimbabwe Mustadonna safari. Elephant herds are almost always in view close to the water. Rhino are present but elusive in the Matuzviadonha hills and woodland areas. Lion, leopard, warthog, kudu and bushbuck are endemic.

The animals that can be considered to be common are vervet monkey, civets, hippos, chacma baboon, side-striped jackal, kudu and bush squirrel. Uncommon animal species are clawless otter, white-tailed mongoose, spotted genets, reedbuck, sable, and eland. Some rare species include wild dogs, caracal and bush pigs.

If you are talking about Lion Safaris in Africa, Mustadonna has a larger share of lion prides in Africa, greater than the concentrations in Ngorongoro Crater Park or even in Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Other predators found here include cheetahs, wild dogs, spotted hyena

The combination of vegetation diversity and the permanent water ensure an extraordinary variety of bird life. Find over 300 species of birds on Sanyati Gorge such as fish eagles, herons, cuckoo shrike, black headed oriole, augur buzzards, black eagle, saddle billed stork, white egrets, crowned horn billed and many other water birds.

Mustadonna Accommodation

There are a few camps and safari lodges that offer overnight facilities with running water, camp bon fires, clean rooms and iconic views of the park. Sanyati Camp offers accommodation for 6 people on each of its two campsites. Find other bush camps at Jenje and Kanjedza however you’ll need 4X4 vehicles if you are backpacking and enough food supplies.

Exclusive and luxury camping is available from Changachirere Camp, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, Carribea Bay Sun Hotel, Kiplings, Matusadona water wilderness camp, Urne Lodge and Mbalabala near Bumi river and Maronga near Chifudzi substation among other camps

When visit

The dry season begins June to October when many herds of animals collect near waterholes and Bumi River and is the best time to visit more sights of game. The rains immediately come later in November to April and animals move far way into the hills however the birds collect near the shores instead.