Matopos National Park

Matopos National Park

Matopos National Park is a wildlife reserve located in northern Zimbabwe. The park's name is derived from the local Matuzviadonha Hill, forming a pristine wilderness where captivating plains meet rolling highlands. Matuzviadonha means "dropping dung" — the name originates from observers who often saw elephants relieving themselves while struggling to climb the hill.

Matopos National Park boasts unique pristine natural scenery, covering approximately 1,370 square kilometers. It is situated along the shores of Lake Kariba, with its western boundary formed by the Ume River and the eastern edge defined by the Munyati River. Two-thirds of the area lies south of the Zambezi Escarpment. This is the last remaining habitat of the endangered black rhinoceros and is generally regarded as Africa’s second-largest lion sanctuary after Ngorongoro. In addition, the park is home to elephants, zebras, antelopes, buffaloes, crocodiles, hippos, and other wildlife, making it an ideal destination for safaris. However, access to the park is not particularly convenient and can be reached either by boat from Lake Kariba or via road through the Carretera de Karoi–Kamativi.

Matusadona National Park

Why go: The last remaining sanctuary for the endangered black rhino

Continent: Africa

Country/Region: Zimbabwe

Province/State: Mashonaland West Province