Zimbabwe National Parks: A Guide to Africa’s Hidden Gems
One of Zimbabwe‘s greatest treasures are its national parks, which provide a sanctuary for wildlife and offer unforgettable experiences for visitors.
From the vast savannahs of Hwange to the tranquil waters of Mana Pools, Zimbabwe’s national parks are among the most spectacular in Africa.
This guide explores the country’s parks in detail, highlighting what makes them unique.
Zimbabwe National Parks
Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park, located in western Zimbabwe, is the country’s largest and most famous wildlife reserve.
Spanning over 14,600 square kilometers, the park is renowned for its immense elephant population, one of the largest in Africa.
Visitors can expect to encounter a wide range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, and over 400 species of birds, such as the iconic secretary bird and martial eagle.
Hwange’s game drives are a highlight, especially during the dry season when animals gather around the park’s numerous waterholes, many of which are artificially maintained to support wildlife.
For accommodation, the park offers a mix of luxury lodges, eco-friendly camps, and self-catering facilities.
The Painted Dog Conservation Centre near Hwange’s main entrance educates visitors about efforts to protect the endangered African wild dog.
Mana Pools National Park
Nestled along the banks of the Zambezi River, Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife.
The park’s name, which means “four pools,” refers to the oxbow lakes formed by the Zambezi.
These pools attract a wealth of animals, including elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and crocodiles.
Mana Pools is one of the few parks in Africa where visitors can walk unaccompanied among wild animals, although guided walking safaris are highly recommended for safety.
Canoe safaris are a signature experience, offering close encounters with wildlife along the river.
The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with species such as the African fish eagle, carmine bee-eater and Pel’s fishing owl making frequent appearances.
Mana Pools’ remoteness and limited visitor numbers add to its allure.
Victoria Falls National Park
While Victoria Falls itself often takes center stage, the surrounding national park is equally enchanting.
Encompassing the rainforest area around the falls, Victoria Falls National Park offers stunning viewpoints and diverse flora and fauna.
The constant spray from the falls sustains a unique rainforest ecosystem, home to ferns, orchids and fig trees.
Wildlife sightings include bushbuck, vervet monkeys, and warthogs, while bird species such as the trumpet hornbill and Schalow’s turaco thrive in the lush environment.
The park also serves as a gateway to adrenaline-pumping activities, including white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge, and helicopter tours offering a bird’s-eye view of the falls.
Matobo National Park
Located near the city of Bulawayo, Matobo National Park is a cultural and historical gem.
The park is known for its striking granite rock formations, which have been sculpted by centuries of erosion.
Matobo Hills is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its spiritual significance to local communities and its ancient San rock art sites.
Matobo’s wildlife includes rhinos, leopards and a rich diversity of birds.
The park is particularly famous for its black eagles, which nest in the rocky outcrops.
Guided rhino-tracking experiences and visits to Cecil John Rhodes’s grave at World’s View are popular activities.
The park’s mystical landscape and historical significance make it a must-visit.
Gonarezhou National Park
For those seeking solitude and raw wilderness, Gonarezhou National Park is the ideal destination.
Located in southeastern Zimbabwe, it forms part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, which spans across Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique.
Gonarezhou, meaning “Place of Elephants,” lives up to its name with its large elephant herds.
The park’s dramatic landscapes include the red sandstone Chilojo Cliffs, the Runde and Save Rivers, and seasonal pans that attract wildlife.
Rare species like the nyala antelope and king cheetah have been spotted here.
Gonarezhou’s remoteness ensures fewer crowds, offering an untouched safari experience.
Community-run lodges and campsites enhance visitors’ stays while supporting local livelihoods.
Matusadona National Park
Situated on the shores of Lake Kariba, Matusadona National Park is a haven for aquatic wildlife and big game.
The park’s combination of rugged mountains, sprawling grasslands, and serene lake shores creates a unique ecosystem that supports hippos, crocodiles, lions and buffaloes.
The park is a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts, with tigerfish being a prized catch.
Boat safaris and houseboat stays offer unique perspectives of the park’s wildlife.
Matusadona has also played a pivotal role in black rhino conservation, with efforts to reintroduce and protect these endangered animals.
Nyanga National Park
Nyanga National Park, located in Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands, offers a stark contrast to the country’s savannahs.
Its lush green landscapes are dotted with waterfalls, forests, and rolling hills.
The park is home to Mount Nyangani, Zimbabwe’s highest peak, which offers challenging hiking trails and panoramic views.
Nyanga also features trout-filled rivers, making it a popular spot for fishing.
Visitors can explore natural pools, ancient stone forts, and the Mutarazi Falls, one of Africa’s highest waterfalls.
Horseback riding and guided hikes allow visitors to immerse themselves in the area’s serene beauty.
Chimanimani National Park
Chimanimani National Park, also in the Eastern Highlands, is a paradise for hikers and adventure enthusiasts. The park’s rugged terrain features granite peaks, deep gorges, and crystal-clear streams.
Chimanimani is known for its biodiversity, including rare plant species, orchids, and endemic birds. The park’s caves, adorned with San rock art, add a cultural dimension to visits. Multi-day treks to the Chimanimani Mountains and overnight camping in the pristine wilderness make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
Zambezi National Park
Located upstream of Victoria Falls, Zambezi National Park is a smaller but equally captivating reserve.
The park’s riverine forests and open woodlands provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes.
Zambezi National Park offers game drives, guided walking safaris, and boat cruises along the river, where visitors can witness spectacular sunsets and encounter hippos and crocodiles.
Fishing for species like tigerfish is another popular activity.
The park’s tranquil atmosphere complements the adventure of visiting Victoria Falls.
Kazuma Pan National Park
Kazuma Pan National Park, situated near the Botswana border, is one of Zimbabwe’s lesser-known parks.
Its vast open plains attract herds of zebras, wildebeests, and antelopes, making it a prime spot for predators like lions, cheetahs and hyenas.
The park’s seasonal pans fill with water during the rainy season, attracting migratory birds such as flamingos and pelicans.
Its remote location and low visitor numbers provide a peaceful and exclusive safari experience.
Activities and Experiences in Zimbabwe’s National Parks
Zimbabwe’s national parks offer a wide range of activities, from traditional game drives to more adventurous pursuits like canoeing, hiking, and fishing.
Birdwatching is exceptional, with parks hosting rare and endemic species.
Cultural tours, particularly in Matobo and Nyanga, provide insights into Zimbabwe’s rich history.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season, from May to October, is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
The rainy season, from November to April, transforms the landscape into a lush green haven and is perfect for birdwatching and photographing the parks’ vibrant scenery.
Management of National Parks
Zimbabwe national parks are managed by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks).
This government agency oversees conservation efforts, wildlife management, and the sustainable use of natural resources within the parks.
ZimParks operates on a model that integrates community involvement, tourism, and partnerships with international organizations to fund its operations and protect biodiversity.
Anti-poaching initiatives are a key focus, with rangers and technology deployed to combat illegal hunting.
Community-based conservation programs aim to involve local populations in protecting wildlife while benefiting from tourism revenues.
Research and monitoring activities ensure that park ecosystems remain balanced and resilient in the face of environmental challenges.
By visiting these parks, travelers contribute to preserving Zimbabwe’s natural heritage and supporting local communities.