Gonarezhou

Information

Gonarezhou National Park is a 1,950 mi² (5,053 km²) remotely located in Southeastern Zimbabwe, bordering the country of Mozambique.The park’s is appropriately named, as Gonarezhou means “the place of many elephants,” some of which are colloquially described as “big tuskers.” The park’s other defining feature are the Chilojo Cliffs, whose oxide-rich, colorful sandstones protrude above the broad Runde River streaming alongside.

The park is comprised primarily of Mopane woodland and scrub, while much of the fauna is concentrated in the riverine forests. Game-viewing is best in the Runde subregion, which boasts elephant, lion, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, and a variety of antelopes, including Nyala. Seldom seen are roan antelope and Liechtenstein’s hartebeest. Bird highlights include giant eage owl, lappet-faced vulture, woolly-necked stork, Bohm’s spinetail red-billed helmetshrike and golden-breasted bunting.

Though the park does not offer night game drives and walks, nearby private game reserves (including Malilangwe) do offer them. Visiting Gonarezhou is one of several excellent day-trips from these reserves, along with relatively nearby Great Zimbabwe.