Tucked away in the little-explored southern part of Zimbabwe lies a wildlife destination that truly lives up to the title of a ‘hidden gem’. Gonarezhou National Park, a vast expanse of untouched wilderness, offers visitors breathtaking scenery and diverse game viewing opportunities.

Its name, meaning ‘Place of Many Elephants’, is no exaggeration—elephants abound here, including impressive big tuskers. But the park also hosts the other members of the Big 5—rhinos, buffalo, lions, and leopards. Meandering rivers cut through the park, attracting a range of animals such as antelope, zebra, and giraffe. Wild dogs and cheetahs roam the floodplains, and the air is filled with the calls of over 400 recorded bird species.

Part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, which also includes South Africa’s Kruger National Park and Mozambique’s Limpopo National Park, Gonarezhou’s standout feature is the nearby Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve.

Malilangwe, a private reserve bordering Gonarezhou, is set to become one of Southern Africa’s most exciting wildlife destinations. With its towering red cliffs and iconic baobab trees, the reserve provides a stunning backdrop for Big 5 game viewing and bird watching—among the best in the region. Managed by a non-profit trust in collaboration with local communities, Malilangwe plays a key role in both community development and the conservation of rare and endangered species.

The optimal time to visit Gonarezhou and Malilangwe is during Zimbabwe’s long dry season, from May to August, when the weather is mild with cool nights. September and October can be intensely hot, though the game viewing remains exceptional. The rainy season arrives around November and lasts until March, peaking in January and February. While game viewing can be more challenging during this time, the lush landscapes are stunning, and bird watching is unparalleled.

For seasoned safari enthusiasts, a trip to Malilangwe promises unforgettable experiences. Explore our curated Gonarezhou and Malilangwe tours or reach out to one of our Africa Safari Experts, who can design a custom itinerary with the best accommodations and seamless logistics.