Mtsheleli Dam #13 - Matobo National Park

Mtsheleli Dam #13 is a camp near Matobo National Park.

Location
Matobo National Park, Matobo & Southwest, Zimbabwe, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-20.586855, 28.605072
Activities
camp

Best Time to Visit Mtsheleli Dam #13

The best months to visit Mtsheleli Dam #13 are March, April, May, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 20.53°C, rainfall 154.5mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 75.7%
  • February: Good, temperature 20.68°C, rainfall 119.9mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 73.4%
  • March: Great, temperature 20.25°C, rainfall 37.3mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 67.2%
  • April: Great, temperature 18.72°C, rainfall 20.9mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 63.4%
  • May: Great, temperature 16.51°C, rainfall 3.9mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 55.7%
  • June: Good, temperature 13.97°C, rainfall 9.3mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 56.8%
  • July: Great, temperature 13.96°C, rainfall 2mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 50.3%
  • August: Great, temperature 17.28°C, rainfall 2.6mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 45.3%
  • September: Great, temperature 20.61°C, rainfall 2.3mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 43.2%
  • October: Great, temperature 22.12°C, rainfall 24.6mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 47.4%
  • November: Great, temperature 22.52°C, rainfall 64.7mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 56.9%
  • December: Good, temperature 21.8°C, rainfall 154.5mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 68.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Mtsheleli Dam #13 for the optimal Matobo National Park experience?

We find the dry season, from May to October, offers the most rewarding visits to Mtsheleli Dam #13. The sparse vegetation makes rhino tracking on foot in Matobo National Park exceptional, and the cooler mornings are perfect for exploring the ancient rock art sites. The sunsets over the dam during this period are truly sensational, painting the sky with vibrant hues.

What unique activities can we expect at Mtsheleli Dam #13, beyond a typical safari camp?

Mtsheleli Dam #13 is perfectly positioned for Matobo's unique offerings, and we highly recommend focusing on the walking safaris, especially the guided rhino tracking. Beyond that, exploring the ancient San rock art caves and granite formations is a profound experience, and we love the opportunity for birdwatching directly from the camp's vantage point overlooking the dam.

What is the actual "camp" experience like at Mtsheleli Dam #13? Is it rustic or more comfortable?

While it's a camp, Mtsheleli Dam #13 strikes a wonderful balance, feeling both authentic to the bush and surprisingly comfortable. We appreciate the well-appointed tents with proper beds and en-suite facilities, offering a luxurious and timeless feel without being overly opulent. Evenings around the campfire under the vast Zimbabwean sky are a highlight, fostering a true connection with nature.

What specific wildlife can we expect to encounter around Mtsheleli Dam #13 and in Matobo National Park?

Matobo National Park is world-renowned for its healthy population of both black and white rhino, which you'll likely track on foot- an unforgettable experience. Around the dam itself, we often spot a fantastic array of birdlife, including various waterfowl and raptors, and we've seen klipspringer gracefully navigating the granite kopjes. Keep an eye out for elusive leopard and hyena too, especially at dusk.

How accessible is Mtsheleli Dam #13, and what should we know about travel logistics and safety?

Mtsheleli Dam #13 is typically accessed via Bulawayo, about an hour's drive away, and we recommend arranging a transfer through the camp for ease. Zimbabwe is generally safe for tourists, but standard travel precautions apply, and we always advise checking current travel advisories. While not a budget option, we find the value for the unique Matobo experience and personalized service at Mtsheleli Dam #13 to be excellent.

Other Safari Lodges in Matobo National Park

Parks in Matobo & Southwest

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Zimbabwe

Travel advisory for Zimbabwe