About

Gonarezhou National Park boasts a rich and fascinating history, shaped by centuries of human settlement and conservation. Originally inhabited by the Shangaan (Tsonga) people, the area later became an important centre for the ivory trade before being declared a game reserve in 1935 and officially proclaimed a National Park in 1975.

Situated in the remote southeastern corner of Zimbabwe, Gonarezhou shares a 100-kilometre border with Mozambique. The park forms a vital part of the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park (GLTP), one of the world's largest conservation areas. Established in 2002, the GLTP links some of the most iconic national parks across Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa, creating an expansive transboundary wilderness.

Affectionately known as the "Place of Elephants," Gonarezhou is home to more than 11,500 elephants—one of the highest elephant densities in any protected area in Africa. Local legend tells of elephants taller than the trees, and while the stories may be embellished, the park is still home to several magnificent bulls, descendants of legendary giants such as Dhulamiti, whose name means "the one who is taller than the trees."

Beyond its celebrated elephant population, Gonarezhou supports an extraordinary diversity of wildlife. The park is home to more than 450 bird species, 89 large mammal species, 61 small mammal species, over 50 fish species, 116 identified reptile species, and 34 amphibian species. Among these are numerous species of conservation concern, including 15 classified as vulnerable, six as endangered, and five as critically endangered, making Gonarezhou one of southern Africa's most important strongholds for biodiversity.