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Matobo National Park Zimbabwe flag

2 Tours 0 Hotels & Lodges

Starting from

$435PP

Overview

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.

High Season
July to September
Best Time to Go
June 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

Map in Zimbabwe

Matobo National Park map

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Wildlife & Animals

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.

Giraffe

Giraffe

Occasional
Hippo

Hippo

Occasional
White Rhino

White Rhino

Occasional
Leopard

Leopard

Occasional
Zebra

Zebra

Occasional
Hyena

Hyena

Occasional
Wildebeest

Wildebeest

Occasional
Cheetah

Cheetah

Rare

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 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.

Verreaux's eagle owl

Verreaux's eagle owl

Common
Coqui Francolin

Coqui Francolin

Common
Black-collared barbet

Black-collared barbet

Common
Mocking cliff chat

Mocking cliff chat

Common

Best Time for Birding

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 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.

High Season
July to September
Low Season
Seasonal rains can affect access in some areas
Best Weather
Typically during dry months; check local patterns
Worst Weather
Peak of Wet season; very hot months vary by region

May to October (Dry Season)

  • Less vegetation and animals concentrate around water, making them easier to spot
  • The skies are clear, rain is rare, and there are fewer mosquitoes
  • Even though most tourists visit during the Dry season, the parks still feel uncrowded, except for the bustling Chobe riverfront area
  • Early morning and evening drives are cold in June, July and August

November to April (Wet Season)

  • The scenery is greener, and there are lower rates during this season
  • Although wildlife is easier to spot in the Dry season, you'll still see plenty
  • There are many newborn animals and migratory birds
  • Except for January and February, rains seldom interfere with your trip
  • During January and February, the rains can be continuous for days
  • It gets very hot in October and November
  • Some lodges and camps close down during part of the Wet season

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Activities

Explore popular activities available in and around Matobo National Park.

Birding Safari

Birding Safari

Eager bird-watchers won't be disappointed on an African safari! This gray crowned crane was seen in the core of the Serengeti, Tanzania.
Boating Safaris

Boating Safaris

Explore the aquatic wildlife by boat, canoe, dhow or kayak. In Botswana, it is feasible to go down the Okavango Delta in a burrow kayak called a moko.
Bushman

Bushman

Hadzabe, Maasai, Himba, San, and Zulu are some of the African tribes that arrange visits to get authentic cultural and tribal experiences in Africa
Cultural

Cultural

It is possible to take part in a cultural safari if you desire to spend your time visiting local schools, clinics, orphanages, and markets.
Fishing

Fishing

Fishing safaris are especially famous in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Mozambique. River, lake and deep ocean fishing are all possible in Africa.
Game Drives

Game Drives

A game drive is an adventure that involves viewing wildlife from the comfort of a 4x4 open vehicle, providing you with a true safari experience.
Hiking & Trekking

Hiking & Trekking

Trekking massive mountains such as Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mt. Meru, and Mt. Kenya, as well as hiking in the foothills, are all options in Africa.
Horse Riding

Horse Riding

For those who wish to explore the parks and game reserves by horse. These are the most well-known destinations; Botswana, Mozambique and South Africa.
Photography

Photography

Photography safaris are frequently led by experienced photographers who are dedicated to capturing the best shot possible.

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