Zimbabwe is a country of dramatic landscapes and diverse ecosystems, which support an extraordinary array of wildlife. Whether you’re on safari in the rolling savannahs and dense forests of Hwange, exploring the waterways of Mana Pools, or marvelling at the grandeur of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe offers some of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in all of Africa.
Zimbabwe is home to a remarkable variety of animals, including some of Africa’s most iconic species. Elephants are a highlight and are especially abundant in Hwange National Park, which hosts one of Africa’s largest elephant populations. Watching these gentle giants gather at waterholes during the dry season is a memorable sight. Lions roam Zimbabwe’s national parks, with notable populations in Hwange, Mana Pools, and Gonarezhou. Zimbabwe is also one of the best places to see African wild dogs, an endangered species with thriving packs in Mana Pools National Park and Hwange. Buffalo and zebra are common across the country’s savannahs, often seen in herds that bring life to the open plains. The Burchell’s zebra is the most common, and you might spot them alongside wildebeest and other grazers.
The Big Five
Zimbabwe is one of the few countries that offers even a chance to spot the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Black and white rhinos are protected in several locations, including Matobo National Park and private reserves like Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve. Leopards, elusive and nocturnal, are often seen in Mana Pools and Matobo’s rocky landscapes. For buffalo, Hwange and Mana Pools are prime locations.
Unique species
Zimbabwe’s parks and reserves are home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including some species that are especially noteworthy. The sable antelope, with its striking curved horns, is more commonly observed here, particularly in Hwange and Matobo National Parks. Similarly, the roan antelope, another uncommon species, can be found in Gonarezhou National Park. The Marshall’s pygmy chameleon, a diminutive and unique chameleon species, inhabits the forests of eastern Zimbabwe, while the Smithers’s horseshoe bat, identified as a distinct species in 2012, is found in certain regions of Zimbabwe.
Birds and aquatic life
Zimbabwe is a paradise for birdwatchers, with more than 670 recorded species. Highlights include African fish eagles, lilac-breasted rollers, and the elusive Pel’s fishing owl. Migratory species arrive during the rainy season, adding to the diversity. Matobo National Park is renowned for its high density of raptors, including black eagles. Though landlocked, Zimbabwe still offers a unique aquatic experience. Lake Kariba, one of the world’s largest man-made lakes, teems with fish and attracts an array of birds, including African skimmers and Goliath herons.
Endangered wildlife
Zimbabwe plays a vital role in conserving several endangered species. The black rhino population has been steadily growing thanks to intensive protection efforts. African wild dogs, one of the continent’s rarest predators, are flourishing in Hwange and Mana Pools. Conservation initiatives in Gonarezhou are also helping safeguard species like cheetahs and pangolins.
Something different
The granite hills of Matobo National Park offer more than stunning scenery; they’re home to a unique mix of wildlife, including klipspringers and rock hyraxes. This park is also culturally significant, with ancient rock art and sacred sites. For a different kind of wildlife experience, consider visiting Victoria Falls. The surrounding rainforests host a variety of species, from colourful birds to playful monkeys. The Zambezi River itself is a lifeline for animals, attracting wildlife to its banks year-round.
If these wildlife species of Zimbabwe impress you and you’re dreaming of a holiday we’d love to help. Please do reach out via telephone or email.
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