Overview – Matobo National Park
The Matobo National Park forms the core of the Matobo or Matopos Hills, a region with granite kopjes and lush valleys initiating approximately 35 kilometres south of Bulawayo. The region shows a bounty of distinctive stone landforms transcending the rock safeguard that covers quite a bit of Zimbabwe. Wildlife viewing has become less useful over ongoing years because of heavy poaching. The lion and elephant are absent. A few very well-preserved Bushman rock craftsmanships are available to the general population.
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Wildlife13 Animals
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High SeasonJuly to September
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Best Time to GoJune to October
Pros & Cons
- Astonishing rock landscape
- Amazing birding destination, especially for raptors
- Good park for self-drive visitors
- Variety of accommodation options for all budgets
- Limited wildlife viewing opportunities
- Small park with very Limited road network
Matobo National Park Map in Africa
Matobo National Park Safari Reviews
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Wildlife & Animals – Matobo National Park
The park has rich and diverse flora and fauna, with 175 birds, 88 warm-blooded animals, 39 snakes and 16 fish species recorded here. Although some key species, like lions and elephants, are missing. Wildlife densities are fairly low, and the accentuation of the park lies more in the landscape and cultural activities. The park is additionally home to Africa's largest antelope, the eland, and the fastest antelope, the tsessebe. Other antelope to pay special attention to incorporate greater kudu, sable and klipspringer.
Wildlife Highlights
White and black rhinos have been once again introduced to Matobo, and this region is probably the best place to spot these delicate goliaths. The park is likewise home to the world's densest populace of leopards, because their main prey; hyrax, or shrewmouse is widely present here. They can be effortlessly spotted on rocky outcrops.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
The best time to visit Matobo National Park for wildlife viewing is during the dry season from June to October when Animals gather around predictable water sources. Also, the vegetation is thinner during these months, which makes spotting much easier. However, the park is not a typical wildlife destination and other activities like fishing, hiking and birding can be enjoyed throughout the year.
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Birds – Matobo National Park
Matobo National Park has rich and diverse flora and fauna, with over 320 species recorded so far. It is famous for its large concentration of raptors; 35 diurnal and nine nocturnal species have been recorded. The Park contains the highest concentration of black eagles, and breeding pairs of these birds, worldwide. They can be seen perched on top of rock formations or soaring along the cliffs in search of prey. Migratory birds are present from November to April.
Notable Birds in Matobo National Park
Best Time for Bird Watching
Matabo offers a great birding experience throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is during the wet season from November to April. It is also the time when migratory birds are available and a lot of birds can be seen in breeding plumage. The Dry season is best for wildlife viewing and occurs from June to October.
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Best Time to Visit – Matobo National Park
The best time to visit Matobo National Park is during the Dry season from June to October when animals are easier to spot because the dry weather thins the bush and wildlife concentrates around water sources. Fishing, hiking and visits to some of the San rock-art sites are less season-dependent.
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Best Time
June to October
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High Season
July to September
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Low Season
January to June
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Best Weather
April to September
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Worst Weather
November to March
April to October (Dry Season)
- Easier to spot wildlife as animals come to drink at the rivers and waterholes
- It is sunny, and there is little rain
- Fewer mosquitoes and less chance of catching malaria
- The sky is hazy with a lot of dust in the air
- Warm clothes are recommended for the early morning & night chill weather
April to October (Wet Season)
- Birding is best as migratory birds are present
- Plenty of baby animals that attract predators
- The scenery is beautiful and at its most lush
- Low season rates are applied due to less crowd
- Extreme Hot and Humid climate
- Roads become impassable and difficult to drive after heavy rainfalls
- From January to March, some camps and lodges will be closed
- The Dry season is better for wildlife viewing
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Activities – Matobo National Park
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Safari Reviews – Matobo National Park
Want to Visit Matobo National Park?
Photo Gallery – Matobo National Park
