Chizarira National Park

One of Zimbabwe's most remote and untouched national parks, Chizarira is characterized by its dramatic escarpment, deep gorges, and rugged terrain. It...

Chizarira National Park at a Glance

Location
Hwange & Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-17.772255, 27.911455
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry season) for game viewing. February to May for Victoria Falls at peak flow.

Getting to Chizarira National Park

Nearest airport: Chizarira Airstrip (FVCR), 11 km away.

Nearest international airport: Kariba International Airport (KAB), 174 km away.

Big Five in Chizarira National Park

4 of the Big Five can be found here: African Buffalo, Leopard Tortoise, Black Rhinoceros, Lion.

Wildlife in Chizarira National Park

Home to 20 recorded species including 5 birds of prey, 4 big five, 4 reptiles, 2 iconic birds, 2 waterbirds, 2 antelope & gazelle.

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Chizarira National Park

7 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Hwange & Victoria Falls

Visitor Tips - Chizarira National Park

We find Chizarira to be one of Zimbabwe's true hidden gems, offering an unparalleled sense of untouched wilderness and genuine exploration. With its dramatic escarpments and diverse habitats, it provides a profound connection to nature that few other parks can match. The low visitor numbers mean you often have this magnificent landscape all to yourselves, making every sighting feel incredibly personal and special.

Gate Times

We find that most Zimbabwean national parks, including Chizarira, typically operate from sunrise to sunset, generally around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We always advise confirming the exact times with your lodge or tour operator, as these can vary slightly with the seasons. Permits are mandatory for entry and should be arranged in advance, often through your accommodation or a registered safari company. We recommend having your booking confirmations readily available upon arrival.

Tipping

Tipping is customary and a wonderful way to show appreciation for excellent service. For your safari guide, we recommend budgeting around US$10-20 per guest per day. For general camp staff, a communal tip of US$5-10 per guest per day, placed in a central box, is appropriate. Rangers encountered on bush walks might receive US$5-10 directly. We prefer to give tips in cash, preferably USD, at the end of your stay or activity.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Zimbabwe

Travel advisory for Zimbabwe

Chizarira National Park FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Chizarira National Park for wildlife viewing and accessibility?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally the best time to visit Chizarira. During these months, water sources are scarce, concentrating wildlife around available waterholes, and the rugged terrain is more accessible for game drives and walking safaris.

What kind of accommodation and facilities can I expect in Chizarira National Park given its remote nature?

Chizarira offers a truly rustic and authentic wilderness experience, primarily with basic campsites and a few self-catering lodges. Visitors should be prepared for limited amenities and often need to be self-sufficient, bringing their own supplies and equipment.

What are the typical costs associated with a safari in Chizarira National Park?

While park entry fees are relatively modest, the overall cost of a Chizarira safari can be higher due to its remote location, requiring specialized transport and self-sufficiency. Expect to budget for 4x4 vehicle hire, fuel, camping equipment, and potentially a professional guide for the best experience.

Beyond malaria precautions, what specific safety considerations should I be aware of when exploring Chizarira's rugged wilderness?

Due to the park's rugged terrain and true wilderness nature, it's crucial to travel with experienced guides, especially for walking safaris, and ensure your vehicle is well-maintained for challenging roads. Always be aware of wildlife, particularly in areas with dense vegetation or near water sources, and carry sufficient water and communication devices.

Are there any unique or particularly notable wildlife species to look out for in Chizarira National Park, given its dramatic landscape?

While the park hosts the Big Four, Chizarira is particularly renowned for its diverse antelope species, including the rare klipspringer and sable, often seen navigating the dramatic escarpment. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the unique raptors and other avian species that thrive in the deep gorges and rugged terrain.

Recommended Books

  • Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight by Alexandra Fuller - Raw and unflinching memoir of growing up in Rhodesia/Zimbabwe during the civil war. One of the most honest accounts of life in southern Africa.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Bradt Guide: Zimbabwe by Paul Murray - The most detailed guide to Zimbabwe including Hwange, Mana Pools, Matobo Hills, and Victoria Falls. Written by a Zimbabwe specialist with decades of experience.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.