A natural symphony of chirping birds, trumpeting elephants, and cooing doves welcomes visitors amid closely knit mopane and acacia bushes. Here, nature’s orchestra plays a sweet, unspoiled song, a welcome respite from urban noise and pollution. This vivid experience is reserved for those journeying into the heart of Gonarezhou National Park.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Declared a national park in 1975 (after its establishment as a game reserve in the 1960s), Gonarezhou is managed by the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Authority (ZimParks). Before it became a protected area, the land belonged to the Hlengwe people, part of the Tsonga/Shangaan community. Today, Tsonga elders, whose communities still surround the park in areas such as Mahenye (Chipinge South), Sangwe (Chiredzi North), and Matibi 2 & Sengwe (Chiredzi South), continue to refer to this cherished land as “marhumbini ahina” (our deserted homelands). This deep cultural connection enriches every visit.

Size, Location, and the Great Peace Park Initiative

Covering an area of 5,053 square kilometers, Gonarezhou is Zimbabwe’s second-largest national wildlife sanctuary after Hwange National Park (14,600 square km). Located in southeastern Zimbabwe, near the borders of South Africa and Mozambique, Gonarezhou forms part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park. This peace park unites three destinations:

• Gonarezhou National Park (Zimbabwe)
• Kruger National Park (South Africa, 19,485 square km)
• Limpopo National Park (Mozambique, 10,462 square km)

Together, they form a vast conservation area of approximately 35,000 square kilometers, allowing wildlife to roam freely across international borders. The initiative also aims to market these parks as one integrated destination, encouraging tourists in one park to visit the others.

Challenges and Visitor Experience

Despite its vast natural treasures, Gonarezhou remains one of Zimbabwe’s least visited parks. Its remoteness from major cities and sporadic political instability in neighboring regions have contributed to this lower visitation rate.

The park’s name is commonly translated as “place of many elephants.” Some local elders, however, believe it also alludes to early traditional herbalists who used elephant tusks as medicine storage (known as “gona” in Shona). Regardless of the origins, the park continues to dazzle visitors with its natural bounty.

Natural Attractions and Tourist Routes

Wildlife and Scenic Landscapes

Visitors can experience a remarkable blend of wildlife and natural beauty. As you traverse the park, you might encounter:

• Vibrant wildlife concerts: Where qualia birds, elephants, doves, and baboons create nature’s music.
• Red sandstone landmarks: The famous Chilojo Cliffs, 170 meters high and stretching over 30 kilometers. These majestic cliffs, visible from Hlaro, Fishans, and Directors campsites, add drama to the landscape.

Essential Waterways and Entry Points

Gonarezhou remains hidden unless you cross one of the three significant rivers:

• Runde River and Save River: Flowing near the eastern entry point at Chipinda Pools.
• Mwenezi River: Defining the park’s southern boundary at Mabalauta.

Chipinda Pools – The Eastern Gateway

Chipinda Pools serves as the headquarters for the eastern section of Gonarezhou. It is accessed via the Ngundu-Tanganda highway. For instance, travelers from Chiredzi cover about 24 km, while those from Mutare/Chipinge may travel nearly 33 km after crossing the Save River at Jack Quinton Bridge. From there, an additional 36 km off-road journey leads to the heart of the pool area, situated in the Chinguli sub-region.

Along the Runde River, several inviting pools offer opportunities for fishing, including Pokwe, Chitove, Mwatomba, and Makonde. A scenic route past the confluence of Runde and Save Rivers brings you close to the dramatic red sandstone cliffs of Chilojo. Further downstream, seasonal water pans at Tembahata and Machaniwa become ideal spots for bird watching, and before the migration toward Save River, the 7-meter high Chibilila Falls present a refreshing sight.

Practical Visitor Tips

Climate and Health Precautions

• Temperature: In the South-Eastern Lowveld, temperatures frequently range between 33°C and 40°C during the hot, dry season.
• Insect Precautions: The region is mosquito-infested, so packing anti-malaria kits is advisable.
• Provisions: There are limited service stations, eateries, and major retail shops within the park. Visitors should stock up on fuel, food, and water at nearby business centres.

Navigation and Accessibility

Gonarezhou isn’t easily visible from major highways. However, crossing one of the three large rivers, Runde, Mwenezi, or Save, signals your proximity to this majestic park.

Conclusion and What’s Next

Gonarezhou National Park is a treasure trove of wildlife, culture, and breathtaking natural scenery. From its rich Tsonga heritage and historical significance to its connection with the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, Gonarezhou offers a unique safari experience rarely found elsewhere in Zimbabwe.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this series, where we delve deeper into the attractions at Chipinda Pools, Mabalauta, and other key areas of this magnificent park.

Credit: Adapted from an article BY STEPHEN EPHRAEM