Adventure Backpacking in Gonarezhou

Gonarezhou National Park is made for adventure on foot. A huge reserve, it has an a diverse terrain marked by rugged and rocky hills, sandstone cliffs, and deep gorges carved by the Mwenezi and Save rivers. The park encompasses a wide range of habitats, including miombo woodlands, mopane forests, baobab-studded plains, riverine forests, and open grasslands. 

The park is known for its elephants, and walkers can also spot a wide range of Southern African wildlife including buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, hippopotamus, and various antelope species such as impala, eland, and sable. It's heaven for birding, and notable residents are the African fish eagle, Martial eagle, Lilian's lovebird, Pel's fishing owl, and the rare African skimmer.

It is one of very few places in Africa where it is possible to join a week of wilderness walking. In a small group, guests are professionally guided in remote areas of the park including along the Pombadzi and Mwenezi rivers. A highlight is the approach to the dramatic red sandstone Chilojo Cliffs, which provide a stunning backdrop to the wilderness.

Designed for experienced hikers, guests should supply their own kit including lightweight tent, sleeping mats, and sleeping bag. Food is provided, but it's nice to bring some additional energy treats. Full packing guidance can be offered before travel. 

The typical walking day is about 3-4 hours in the morning. A suitable camp site with a water view is selected, and the rest of the day can be spent resting and wildlife-spotting in the vicinity of camp, before enjoying a camp fire meal. 

Walks are guided personally by Mike Scott of Khangela Safaris, one of Southern Africa's most experienced Trails Guides, and a Zimparks ranger also escorts the group. 

The minimum age for walkers is 16 and maximum group size is 6. Participants need to be fit and experienced in backpacking. As well as backpacking trails, Khangela can also arrange mobile camp-based walking safaris in Gonarezhou, and walking in Hwange, Mana Pools and Matusadona. 

The itinerary starts from Gonarezhou National Park HQ at Chipinda Pools. Guests may self drive or transfers can be arranged from Harare or Bulawayo.

The first night is spent at the camp, with an opportunity to rest after the road trip, and organise the kit and food for the adventure ahead.

The walking begins early on Day 2, and the next five nights are spent wild camping in the park. Routes vary, but you will never be far from a river, providing an opportunity for a bush wash, and of course relaxing and watching what wildlife comes by during the afternoon. It's possible to spend two nights at one spot, to enjoy a day of walking without the full packs.  

On Day 7, a vehicle rendezvous is organised for a return to overnight at the Chipinda Pools camp and its comforts. Day 8 is transfer out.

• Park fees
• Meals
• Guiding

• Transfers to the park
• Hiking Kit