Chizarira National Park

Chizarira National Park, one of Zimbabwe’s largest national parks, offers a captivating blend of rugged terrain, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking scenery.

Nestled in the heart of Zimbabwe, this remote and rarely visited park spans an impressive 1,920 square kilometers (741 square miles) and ranges in altitude from 704 to 1,240 meters (2,310 to 4,068 feet). Its name, derived from a local Tonga word meaning “Great Barrier,” is a testament to the formidable Zambezi Escarpment that dominates the landscape.

Chizarira National Park Key Highlights

• Size: 1,920km² / 741mi²
• Altitude: 704-1,240m / 2,310-4,068ft
• Best Time to Visit: July to October
• High Season: June to August (Chizarira never gets busy)

Chizarira National Park Wildlife and Scenery

Chizarira National Park is home to four of the Big Five—elephant, buffalo, leopard, and lion—though these predators are rarely seen. The park boasts good populations of antelope, including the elusive roan and tsessebe. The terrain, ideal for leopards, also supports spotted hyena and a variety of other wildlife.

The park’s dramatic scenery is dominated by the Zambezi Escarpment and encompasses seven ecological zones, from Lowveld valley savannah to Highveld broadleaf woodland. Lush pockets of vegetation, fed by natural springs, are nestled between mountain ridges, adding to the park’s visual splendor.

Chizarira National Park Wildlife

• Common Sightings: Elephant, buffalo, klipspringer, impala, greater kudu
• Rare Sightings: Leopard, lion, spotted hyena, roan, tsessebe

Chizarira National Park Scenery

• Landscape Features: Zambezi Escarpment, seven ecological zones, natural springs, rugged terrain

Activities in Chizarira National Park

Chizarira National Park offers a unique wilderness experience, best suited to the adventurous traveler. The park is renowned for its guided walking safaris, which provide an intimate way to explore the rugged landscape and observe wildlife. The limited road infrastructure and challenging terrain mean that traditional game drives are less common, and visitors often opt for wilderness camping to fully immerse themselves in the park’s remote beauty.

Main Activities in Chizarira National Park

• Walking Safaris: Best arranged in advance with an experienced professional guide
• Wilderness Camping: Provides a true off-the-grid experience

Weather and Climate in Chizarira National Park

Chizarira National Park enjoys a mild, temperate climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The best time to visit is from July to October during the dry season, when wildlife congregates around water sources, and the skies are clear. The wet season, from November to March, brings lush greenery but also makes roads unreliable.

Chizarira National Park Climate Overview

• Dry Season (April to October): Warm days, cold nights
• Wet Season (November to March): Very warm with afternoon showers

Monthly Averages

• Temperature:
  • January: Min 16°C / 61°F, Max 32°C / 90°F
  • July: Min 11°C / 52°F, Max 24°C / 75°F
  • October: Min 20°C / 68°F, Max 33°C / 91°F
• Rainfall:
  • January: 177 mm / 7 in
  • June to August: 0 mm / 0 in
  • December: 164 mm / 6.5 in

Detailed Climate Chart

Getting to Chizarira National Park

Chizarira National Park’s remote location adds to its wilderness appeal but also makes access challenging. The park is best reached by 4×4 vehicles, with access roads and game-drive tracks being difficult year-round. The nearest major town is Karoi, from where visitors can travel via rough roads to the park’s entrance.

Malaria and Safety

Visitors should take precautions against malaria, especially during the wet season when mosquitoes are more prevalent. Anti-malarial medication and insect repellent are recommended. Despite the ongoing problem of poaching, guided tours and safaris arranged through reputable operators like Remarkable Wild Resources Zambia Limited ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Conclusion

Chizarira National Park is a gem for those seeking adventure and solitude in a pristine wilderness setting. With its diverse wildlife, dramatic scenery, and excellent walking safaris, it offers a truly unique African safari experience. Plan your trip with Nextgen Safaris to explore this hidden treasure and discover the untamed beauty of Zimbabwe.

For more information and to book your safari, visit Nextgen Safaris.