Chizarira National Park is situated in the north-western part of Zimbabwe, perched atop the vast Zambezi Escarpment, providing a view of the expansive Zambezi Valley and the upper reaches of Lake Kariba. This national park is among the most isolated in Zimbabwe.
Chizarira National Park ranks as the third largest national park in Zimbabwe. This expansive area of 192,000 hectares, rich in unknown flora and wildlife, features stunning gorges, plateaus, and flood plains, establishing this pristine park as an exceptional destination for all visitors. The solitude and rugged beauty of Chizarira National Park are unmatched, thanks to its wild and remote nature.
Chizarira National Park in Zimbabwe was established as a non-hunting reserve in 1938 and later became a game reserve in 1963; it was officially designated as a national park under the Parks and Wildlife Act of 1972. 1975. Manzituba functions as the main hub of the park. Chizarira derives its name from the Tonga word “sijalila,” translating to “big barrier” in the local language. The impressive Zambezi Escarpment Mountains mark the western boundary of the park, offering hard hikes and stunning views of the valley beneath. The Park is renowned for its walking paths, offering visitors an unmatched chance to connect deeply with nature.
What to do in Chizarira National Park
Nature Walks in Chizarira National Park in Zimbabwe
The safari includes our cook and camp crew, who will assist with carrying food and equipment and handle the camp chores throughout the journey. We provide a completely portered option for those who wish to travel without the weight of their pack.
Walking safaris provide a chance to discover the secluded and unexplored regions of the Park, showcasing a landscape of striking beauty. The typical schedule for the day includes a walk to a new camp site, followed by an afternoon ‘free’ walk (without backpacks), though this can change based on the distance that needs to be traveled between camps.
Bird Watching in Chizarira National Park
Chizarira National Park stands out as a remarkable destination for birdwatching, boasting more than 360 documented bird species. In the park, you can commonly film the crested Francolin, lilac breasted roller, stripped kingfisher, and tropical bou Bou among other bird species. Birds of prey encompass the lanner, Verreaux’s eagle, and the peregrine falcon.
Scenic Viewing in Chizarira National Park in Zimbabwe
The park features a rugged and dramatic landscape, highlighted by the Zambezi escarpment. The park includes seven distinct ecological zones, ranging from lowveld valley savannah to highveld broadleaf woodland. Verdant pockets of greenery, nourished by natural springs, are located in the valleys nestled between the mountain ridges.
Exploring the Gorge Trails in Chizarira National Park, Zimbabwe
“Home of the Hidden Gorges,” the park features a series of deeply carved gorges and ravines that traverse the rugged and jagged mountain landscape, especially in the northern region where the Sengwa River flows toward Lake Kariba. They are excellent for hiking, and the majority of tourists visit for that reason.
Game Drives in Chizarira National Park in Zimbabwe
Chizarira National Park is incredibly beautiful, showcasing exceptional flora and is considered one of the most picturesque wildlife sanctuaries. Daily game drives enhance the enjoyment of this stunning location.
Prepare to encounter elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, spotted hyenas, hippos, Nile crocodiles along the lakeshore, as well as kudu, roan antelope, bushbuck, waterbuck, tsessebe, nyala, sable antelope, and more.
Accommodation options in Chizarira National Park Zimbabwe.
Chizarira National Park in Zimbabwe features seven exclusive bush camps, providing wildlife enthusiasts the opportunity to spend a night or two involved in nature. The capacity of each camp is typically capped at 12 individuals.
Kaswiswi Camp
Situated 6 kilometers from the park headquarters along the upper banks of the Rwizilukulu River. The camp features a water-borne ablution facility, a braai stands, and elevated pole and thatch beds known as “Ngazi,” drawing inspiration from the traditional shelters of the native Tonga tribe.
Mucheni Gorge Camp
Situated on the edge of one of the breathtaking canyons that define Chizarira. A thatched shelter, a long drop, and a braai stand are provided. Water can be accessed at the Parks headquarters, located 3.5 kilometers away.
Mucheni View Camp
situated on the Zambezi Escarpment, it offers a breathtaking view of the Zambezi Valley floor and a refreshing breeze that invites you to linger endlessly. A thatched shelter, a long drop toilet, and a braai stand are included among the amenities. Water can be obtained at the park headquarters, located 4 kilometers away.
The Platform Bush Camp
This camp features a bush setting with a long drop and a game viewing platform that provides a view of a well-frequented watering hole, attracting elephants, waterbuck, buffalo, kudu, impala, zebra, and numerous other animal species found in the park.
Busi Camp
The Busi Camp is situated 40 kilometers from the park headquarters, enveloped by vast stretches of wild forest. Situated alongside the stunning Busi River, it hosts large populations of buffalo and elephant. Busi is also preferred by Lions. This is an authentic African bush camp, defined by the Acacia albida flood plains. The path to this location is rather uneven, requiring a 4 x 4 or another vehicle with high clearance.
Getting to Chizarira National Park.
Three primary road routes lead into Chizarira National Park.
Proceed along the Bulawayo Road from Victoria Falls and make a left turn at Cross Dete heading towards Kamativi. Travel from Kamativi along the Binga Road until you reach the 133-kilometer marker, then make a right turn onto the Siabuwa Road. Proceed along this gravel road until you arrive at the 47-kilometer marker, where you will find a sign indicating “Chizarira National Park.” This meandering path ascends the escarpment for 20 kilometers to the park headquarters.
When driving along the Harare-Bulawayo Highway, be sure to take the Kwekwe exit heading towards Gokwe. Travel along the Binga tarred road from Gokwe for 120 kilometers until you arrive at a T-junction marked with a sign pointing left towards Binga. Proceed along this dirt road towards Binga, passing Siabuwa Business Centre, until you arrive at a sign indicating “Chizarira National Park” at the 47-kilometer point. Make a left turn and proceed for 20 kilometers until you reach the Park headquarters.
At the 246-kilometer mark from Bulawayo, take the turnoff for the Victoria Falls route at Gwayi River on the Lubumbi road. Continue along the road for 96 kilometers in the direction of Lusulu, then take a left at the sign for “Chizarira National Park”; the Park headquarters are located 70 kilometers past this sign.
