Where to See Wildlife in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s largest national park, Hwange, is a land mass of over 14,000 square kilometres brimming with over 100 mammals and 400 bird species. Sought-after species are not uncommon here, as the park is home to over 20,000 elephants and the largest population of African wild dog in the world. Large prides of lion and buffalo also reside here, as well as leopards, rhinos, cheetahs and spotted hyenas. The best time to visit Hwange for its wildlife is from June to October. During these months, the wildlife is concentrated around waterholes and is therefore far easier to spot than during other months.

If you’re not convinced by spending the entire night outdoors, you can take solace in the fact that a local guide is only a short distance away should you need any assistance. There is an abundance of wildlife in this area, including rarer species such as sable antelopes, blue wildebeests and impalas. During the summer months, wildebeests, zebras and elands roam freely around the open plains, while in winter, elephants congregate in large numbers around watering holes.

UNESCO-protected Mana Pools National Game Park is one of the wildest areas in Zimbabwe. Much of this expansive parkland is only accessible on foot, so the area’s natural beauty remains relatively untouched. “Mana,” meaning “four” in the local language, refers to the four large pools that lie inland here. These pools are remnant ox-bow lakes, carved by the Zambezi River thousands of years ago. 

The best place to stay for wildlife sightings in Mana Pools is Ruckomechi Camp. The luxurious tents here were built near albida trees, favoured by elephants. It’s not unheard of for herds of elephants to spend most of their days here, so guests can view these majestic animals without even having to leave their lodge. Birdwatching enthusiasts can enjoy the wealth of birds in the area, with notable species including the snake-eagle, three-banded courser, Arnot’s chat, African golden oriole and Meve’s starling. Of course, the spectacular Big Five can also be seen here; there are opportunities to spot leopards, hippos, Burchell’s zebra, lions and buffalos on river cruises, game drives and nature walks.

An unbelievably wild terrain, Gonarezhou National Park is known as the “place of the Elephants.” Despite being the second largest park in the country, it is the least visited, making it extremely appealing to travellers looking to go on safari in true solitude. This wild land belongs to the elephants – about 8,000 reside here and they are rarely disturbed by humans. Three rivers meet in this park – the Save, Runde and Mwenezi – so it’s also the perfect habitat for a variety of birds, fish and antelope species (including the rare roan). With the help of expert trackers, lions, leopards, African wild dogs and cheetahs can be spotted here too. As the terrain is challenging to navigate and the wildlife is elusive, Gonarezhou is suited to more avid safari goers.

As the name suggests, Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve is one of the largest bio-refuges across Africa. Untouched Mopane forest gives way to sandstone hills and winding creeks in this area of outstanding natural beauty, so some of the most authentic safari opportunities across Zimbabwe are on offer here. This fascinating region is home to some of the highest concentrations of black rhino in Africa, as well as the Big Five, sable antelopes and roans. Malilangwe also offers the opportunity to learn about Zimbabwe’s culture and ancient history, as there are over a hundred bushman rock sites – dating back over 2,000 years – to explore.