Gonarezhou National Park

Meaning 'Place of Elephants,' Gonarezhou is Zimbabwe's second-largest national park, forming part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park. It's...

Gonarezhou National Park at a Glance

Location
Southeast Lowveld, Zimbabwe, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-21.674060, 31.860851
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.

Safari Activities in Gonarezhou National Park

  • Camping
  • Guided Safaris

Getting to Gonarezhou National Park

Nearest airport: Unknown Airport, 162 km away.

Nearest international airport: Polokwane International Airport (PTG), 345 km away.

Big Five in Gonarezhou National Park

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

Weather & Climate in Gonarezhou National Park

The warmest temperatures in Gonarezhou National Park occur in November, averaging 26.9°C (up to 33.1°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 19.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 3.2mm. Average humidity: 56.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 25.9°C (rainfall: 192.6mm)
  • February: 25.9°C (rainfall: 170.5mm)
  • March: 24.9°C (rainfall: 47.6mm)
  • April: 23.3°C (rainfall: 26.0mm)
  • May: 21.5°C (rainfall: 5.5mm)
  • June: 19.4°C (rainfall: 8.1mm)
  • July: 19.0°C (rainfall: 3.2mm)
  • August: 21.3°C (rainfall: 9.5mm)
  • September: 23.9°C (rainfall: 11.3mm)
  • October: 25.4°C (rainfall: 24.3mm)
  • November: 26.9°C (rainfall: 79.4mm)
  • December: 26.8°C (rainfall: 152.1mm)

Best Time to Visit Gonarezhou National Park

The best months to visit Gonarezhou National Park are March, April, May, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 25.94°C, rainfall 192.6mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 70.4%
  • February: Good, temperature 25.91°C, rainfall 170.5mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 70.8%
  • March: Great, temperature 24.93°C, rainfall 47.6mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 68.6%
  • April: Great, temperature 23.34°C, rainfall 26mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 67.4%
  • May: Great, temperature 21.49°C, rainfall 5.5mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 62.4%
  • June: Great, temperature 19.37°C, rainfall 8.1mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 60.4%
  • July: Great, temperature 18.96°C, rainfall 3.2mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 56.8%
  • August: Great, temperature 21.27°C, rainfall 9.5mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 55.1%
  • September: Great, temperature 23.86°C, rainfall 11.3mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 53.8%
  • October: Great, temperature 25.36°C, rainfall 24.3mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 55.5%
  • November: Great, temperature 26.95°C, rainfall 79.4mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 57.3%
  • December: Good, temperature 26.8°C, rainfall 152.1mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 67%

Wildlife in Gonarezhou National Park

Home to 87 recorded species including 28 iconic birds, 19 birds of prey, 17 waterbirds, 6 tropical birds, 5 big herbivores, 3 big five.

Recommended Packing List for Gonarezhou National Park

Based on average temperature of 23.7°C, typical conditions, humidity 62%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 24°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Gonarezhou National Park

7 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Southeast Lowveld

Visitor Tips - Gonarezhou National Park

Gonarezhou offers an authentically wild and untouched safari experience, a true gem for those seeking solitude and raw beauty. We love the dramatic Chilojo Cliffs, which glow fiery red at sunset, and the park's impressive elephant population, often seen along the Runde River. It feels like stepping back in time to a truly wild Africa, far from the crowds.

Gate Times

Gonarezhou's gates typically open at 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM, aligning with sunrise and sunset. We strongly recommend pre-booking all permits and accommodation, especially if you plan to stay within the park's designated camping areas. Entry is strictly controlled, and you'll need proof of your bookings upon arrival. Always check the latest times with your operator or the park authorities, as these can vary slightly with the seasons.

Tipping

Tipping is customary and a valued way to acknowledge excellent service. For your safari guide, we recommend around US$10-20 per person per day, given directly at the end of your stay. For general camp staff (cooks, cleaners), a communal tip of US$5-10 per person per day, placed in a central box, is appropriate. Rangers accompanying walks or drives, if separate from your main guide, would also appreciate a similar amount to guides. Always tip in US dollars, as it's the most practical currency for staff.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Zimbabwe

Travel advisory for Zimbabwe

Gonarezhou National Park FAQs

What is the optimal time to visit Gonarezhou National Park for wildlife viewing and to best experience its remote character?

The dry season, from May to October, is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around permanent water sources, making them easier to spot. This period also offers clearer skies and more comfortable temperatures for exploring the park's rugged, untamed wilderness and dramatic landscapes, including the iconic Chilojo Cliffs.

Given Gonarezhou's reputation as a remote wilderness, what are the practicalities for accessing the park and is self-driving recommended?

Accessing Gonarezhou requires a 4x4 vehicle due to the rugged terrain and sandy tracks, especially if you plan to self-drive. While self-driving is possible for experienced adventurers, it's crucial to be self-sufficient with fuel, water, and recovery gear, or consider a guided safari for a more relaxed and informed experience.

Beyond its renowned elephant population, what specific wildlife viewing opportunities make Gonarezhou unique compared to other safari parks?

Gonarezhou offers exceptional opportunities to spot healthy populations of black rhino and lion in a truly wild setting, often without the crowds found elsewhere. Its diverse habitats also support unique species like the Nyala antelope, African wild dog, and a rich array of birdlife, providing a more intimate and authentic wildlife experience.

What is the general cost expectation for a safari in Gonarezhou, and what kind of value does it offer for its price point?

While safari costs vary widely, Gonarezhou generally offers a more affordable and authentic wilderness experience compared to more commercialized parks in Southern Africa. Expect to pay for park fees, 4x4 vehicle hire or guided tours, and camping or lodge accommodations, providing excellent value for an uncrowded, raw African safari.

Beyond the moderate malaria risk, what specific safety considerations should visitors be aware of when exploring Gonarezhou's remote wilderness?

Due to its remote and rugged nature, visitors should prioritize self-sufficiency, carrying ample water, food, and fuel, especially if self-driving. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife, particularly elephants, and adhere to park regulations, as emergency services can be distant in this untamed environment.

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.