Gonarezhou National Park National Park

Address: Gonarezhou National Park, Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe

Website: http://www.zimparks.org/

Hours: Park open year-round

Admission: Park entry and camp fees vary; guided safari packages common

Gonarezhou National Park is a large protected area in southeastern Zimbabwe noted for its rugged landscapes and extensive natural habitat. It forms part of a broader transfrontier conservation zone in southern Africa.

Visitors encounter sandstone escarpments, open savanna and river valleys that support elephant, buffalo and many antelope species; notable viewpoints include dramatic cliff faces. Wildlife viewing is often more remote and less crowded than in northern Zimbabwe parks, and the park is valued for wilderness experiences and scenic drives.

The area was set aside for conservation in the 20th century and later integrated into transfrontier conservation initiatives linking protected areas across borders. Management has evolved to balance conservation, local livelihoods and cross-border anti-poaching efforts.

Located in southeastern Zimbabwe, the park lies near the border with Mozambique and covers a remote, sparsely populated region of Masvingo and neighboring provinces, characterized by sandstone ridges and river valleys.

• Park character: Part of the Great Limpopo conservation landscape and one of Zimbabwe’s larger protected areas, the park is known for remote, rugged terrain and scenic cliffs.

What to See#

• Chilojo Cliffs: A dramatic red sandstone escarpment known as the Chilojo Cliffs that forms a striking landmark within the park and overlooks the Runde River valley.

Gonarezhou is remote; most visitors access it from Chimanimani or Masvingo by road. The park has several gateways (e.g., Chipinda Pools) with roads that can be rough; 4x4 vehicles and guided transfers are recommended.

• Game concentrations can be seasonal; consult local wardens or guides for best viewing areas.
• Wear neutral colors and keep noise to a minimum when on drives; wildlife in Gonarezhou can be skittish near roads.
• Combine a visit with the nearby Malilangwe or Save conservancies for broader wildlife contexts.