Gonarezhou National Park: Vast & Magnificent (Part 2)
Gonarezhou National Park continues to captivate visitors with its natural beauty and rich cultural history. In this second and final installment after part 1, we delve deeper into the park’s eastern and southern regions, share intriguing historical insights from our readers, and provide practical travel tips for a memorable safari.
Table of Contents
Historical Insights and Reader Contributions
In response to our previous article, South African reader Mr. Zeph Noya contributed a fascinating piece of history:
“Soshangana (Manukosi Nxumalo) the Nguni king stayed at Chilojo Cliffs before proceeding to Gaza in Mozambique. The cliffs enabled Soshangana’s regiments to detect the enemy from afar. The worst and most feared enemy of Soshangana during that century was Shaka and his battalion.”
While the claim remains a point of lively debate, it highlights how our beautiful natural landmarks are intertwined with African heritage. Such heritage can sometimes lead to feelings of alienation when local communities are not fully associated with these natural ornaments, a discussion for another day.
Eastern Region: Chipinda Pools
Building on our discussion of Chipinda Pools in Part 1, here are key updates and facilities for the eastern section:
- Accommodation:
- Canvas Lodges: Chipinda Pools now boasts four fully equipped self-catering canvas lodges overlooking the Runde River. These lodges feature solar water heaters and solar lighting.
- Additional Campsites: There are several campsites along the banks with thatched shelters. For instance, the Chinguli area offers five traditional thatched shelters.
- Experiences:
- Enjoy fishing in numerous river pools along the Runde, including spots like Pokwe, Chitove, Mwatomba, and Makonde.
- Witness stunning views of the legendary Chilojo Cliffs while staying near Hlaro or at designated campsites.
These facilities provide a comfortable gateway for tourists keen to experience the beauty of Gonarezhou’s eastern border.
Southern Region: Mabalauta – Gateway to the South
Mabalauta serves as the headquarters for the southern region of Gonarezhou and is known for its fascinating scenery and diverse travel options.
How to Reach Mabalauta
There are three main routes to access Mabalauta:
- Via Tanganda-Ngundu Highway (from Chiredzi): Approximate distances:
- Mzembi (Triangle): 36 km
- Mzembi to Mbizi: 52 km
- Mbizi to Boli/Mhlanguleni: 55 km
- Boli/Mhlanguleni to Mabalauta Turn Off: 12 km
- Mabalauta Turn Off to Mabalauta: 23 km Total: ~178 km
- From Masvingo (via Rutenga Business Centre):
- Rutenga to Mbizi: 35 km
- Mbizi to Boli/Mhlanguleni: 55 km
- Boli/Mhlanguleni to Mabalauta Turn Off: 12 km
- Mabalauta Turn Off to Mabalauta: 23 km Total: ~123 km
- From Beitbridge (via Mwenezi Business Centre):
- Mwenezi Shops to Police: 4 km
- Police to Chikombedzi: 63 km
- Chikombedzi to Zhou: 8 km
- Zhou to Gonarezhou entry: 7 km
- Entry to Mabalauta: 23 km Total: ~105 km
Recent Road Developments
Good news for tourists:
- The Beitbridge–Chikwalakwala road, which had deteriorated since 2013, recently received a facelift through a partnership between Beitbridge Rural District Council, ZINARA, DDF, and the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development. This offers an attractive alternative route for visitors heading to Mabalauta.
Accommodation and Wildlife Viewing
- Simuwini Rest Camp: Mabalauta features eight thatched, fully equipped self-catering lodges at Simuwini Rest Camp, ideal for caravan camping and situated near the Mwenezi River. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy sightings of everything from small animals to the big five.
- Tourism Boost: Mabalauta is expected to see increased tourist arrivals during the annual Great Limpopo Cultural Trade Fair at Boli Muhlanguleni Business Centre in Chiredzi South, when delegates from Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique converge for rural tourism experiences.
African Heritage and Historical Landmarks
The Mabalauta region is steeped in history:
- Liberation Struggle: The area is synonymous with Zimbabwe’s liberation history. Notably, the former Gonakudzingwa Detention Camp near the Sango Border Post once detained many nationalists. Former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko, once suggested that the site be revived as a historical monument to boost domestic tourism.
- Frankfurt Zoological Society (FZS) Partnership: In 2010, the FZS entered into a $14 million, ten-year partnership with ZimParks. This initiative focused on capacity building, wildlife management, and marketing of landmarks such as the Chilojo Cliffs, further enhancing the park’s reputation on the international stage.
- Private Tourism Collaborations: Private players like Bubye Conservancy, Bubiana Conservancy, Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, and others have benefited from the park’s existence, contributing to a thriving regional tourism ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
Gonarezhou National Park continues to invite travelers with its stunning landscapes, diverse routes, and rich blend of history and culture. Whether you’re exploring Chipinda Pools on the eastern front or venturing into the scenic southern region at Mabalauta, the park offers unforgettable experiences and deep connections to both African heritage and modern conservation collaboration.
Gonarezhou’s story is far from complete. As partnerships and facilities evolve, more heritage sites and tourism initiatives, like the proposed revitalization of Gonakudzingwa Detention Camp, promise to further enrich its legacy.
Plan Your Visit: If you’re planning a safari in Zimbabwe, consider including Gonarezhou National Park in your itinerary. With multiple routes, improved road conditions, and a wealth of historical and natural attractions, it truly deserves a spot on your holiday list.
Credit: Adopted from an article BY STEPHEN EPHRAEM
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