Chizarira National Park
Chizarira National Park is situated in the remote northwestern region of Zimbabwe, sitting astride the Zambezi Escarpment, 50 kilometres inland as the fish eagle flies from Lake Kariba shore.
Chizarira is perhaps the most scenic park in Zimbabwe. The remoteness of the area is aptly captured by the name “Chizarira”, which is a Shona word meaning “cage trap”. Closed off by name and nature, Chizarira's high escarpment views, green gorges, natural springs, dense woodlands and floodplains are remote and infrequently visited. Most of the Park is an undulating plateau set on the Zambezi Escarpment overlooking Lake Kariba. From here the Park extends southwards to the low-lying Busi region. The banks of the Busi River strongly resemble the river frontage of Mana Pools National Park. Acacia albida trees attract many herbivores, in particular elephants, to the riverbank.
This used to be big five country, but the black rhino were relocated in order to protect and monitor their diminishing numbers. Good populations of elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard can still be found in the Park. Other game includes cheetah, zebra and a range of antelope including sable, common waterbuck, kudu, bushbuck, klipspringer and steenbok. With its grassy valleys and riverine forests Chizarira is also a birders paradise.
The game is widely distributed throughout the Park and viewing can be difficult due to the tall grass. The appeal of Chizarira lies instead in its total remoteness and the opportunity to experience Africa in its original form. The Park is known for its excellent game walking and the best way to enjoy the flora and fauna is to walk along the elephant tracks and mountain trails with a professional guide. Although it is open year round, the rainy season renders some areas inaccessible, and the best time to visit is June to September.
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Chizarira National Park