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Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe - Things to Do in Matobo National Park

Things to Do in Matobo National Park

Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe - Complete Travel Guide

Matobo National Park, located in the Matobo Hills of Zimbabwe, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic granite rock formations, ancient San rock art, and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. The park spans 424 square kilometers and features some of the world's most spectacular balancing rocks, cave paintings dating back thousands of years, and one of the highest concentrations of black eagles globally. The mystical landscape of towering granite kopjes and hidden valleys has been considered sacred by local communities for centuries. Beyond its geological wonders, Matobo is famous for being the final resting place of Cecil Rhodes and offers some of Zimbabwe's best rhino tracking experiences. The park's unique ecosystem supports diverse wildlife including white and black rhinos, leopards, hyenas, and over 200 bird species. Visitors can explore ancient spiritual sites, enjoy world-class rock climbing, and experience the profound silence and beauty of one of Africa's most unique landscapes.

Top Things to Do in Matobo National Park

Rhino Tracking Safari

Experience thrilling on-foot encounters with both black and white rhinos in their natural habitat, guided by expert rangers. This intimate wildlife experience allows you to observe these magnificent creatures up close while learning about conservation efforts. The park is one of the few places in Africa where you can safely track rhinos on foot.

Booking Tip: Book through park headquarters or reputable lodges, costs around $30-50 per person. Early morning slots (6-8 AM) offer the best sightings. Choose operators with experienced armed rangers and ensure group sizes are kept small (maximum 8 people) for safety and better viewing.

Ancient Rock Art Exploration

Discover over 3,000 registered rock art sites featuring San Bushmen paintings that are up to 13,000 years old. These remarkable galleries showcase hunting scenes, spiritual ceremonies, and daily life of ancient civilizations. The Nswatugi Cave and Pomongwe Cave contain some of the most impressive and well-preserved examples.

Booking Tip: Guided tours cost $20-30 per person and are essential for finding and interpreting the art. Best visited during cooler parts of the day (morning or late afternoon). Look for guides certified by the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe for authentic historical context.

World's View and Cecil Rhodes' Grave

Climb to the summit of World's View for breathtaking panoramic vistas across the Matobo Hills and visit the grave of Cecil Rhodes, carved into the granite hillside. The viewpoint offers spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the ancient landscape. The site holds historical significance and provides insight into Zimbabwe's colonial past.

Booking Tip: Access is free but hiring a guide ($15-20) enhances the experience with historical context. Best visited for sunrise (6 AM) or sunset (5-6 PM) for optimal lighting and cooler temperatures. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes for the rocky climb.

Rock Climbing and Bouldering

Challenge yourself on some of Africa's finest granite climbing routes, suitable for all skill levels from beginner to expert. The unique rock formations provide excellent friction and varied climbing experiences. Popular areas include the Kestrel Sector and Maleme Dam area with routes ranging from easy scrambles to technical multi-pitch climbs.

Booking Tip: Equipment rental available at lodges for $40-60 per day, or bring your own gear. Hire certified climbing guides ($50-80 per day) for safety and route finding. Best climbing conditions are April-September during the dry season with cooler temperatures.

Bird Watching and Black Eagle Viewing

Observe one of the world's highest concentrations of black eagles soaring among the granite kopjes, along with over 200 other bird species. The park's diverse habitats support raptors, water birds, and endemic species. Early morning game drives offer the best opportunities to spot eagles hunting and other wildlife activity.

Booking Tip: Game drives cost $25-40 per person, book through park offices or lodges. Bring binoculars or rent them for $10 per day. May to August offers the best bird watching with clear skies and active wildlife. Choose operators who provide knowledgeable birding guides.

Getting There

Matobo National Park is located 35 kilometers south of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe's second-largest city. The most convenient access is by road from Bulawayo, either by rental car (45-minute drive), organized tour, or taxi. Bulawayo is accessible by domestic flights from Harare (1 hour) or by road from major cities. The park has two main entrance gates - the northern gate near Maleme Dam and the southern gate near World's View. International visitors typically fly into Harare and connect to Bulawayo, though some may enter via Victoria Falls and drive (3-4 hours).

Getting Around

A 4x4 vehicle is recommended but not essential for most park roads, though some remote areas require high clearance. Self-driving is popular with clearly marked roads and available park maps. Game drive vehicles can be hired through lodges or tour operators for $80-120 per day with driver. Walking is permitted in designated areas but must be with certified guides for safety, especially for rhino tracking and rock art visits. Mountain bikes are allowed on certain trails and can be rented from some lodges for exploring the park's gentler terrain.

Where to Stay

Matobo Hills Lodge (luxury eco-lodge)
Camp Amalinda (upmarket tented camp)
Farmhouse Lodge (mid-range accommodation)
Black Eagle Lodge (budget-friendly option)
Bulawayo city hotels (30km away)
National Parks camping sites

Food & Dining

Dining options within the park are limited to lodge restaurants and packed meals for day visitors. Matobo Hills Lodge and Camp Amalinda offer excellent cuisine featuring local ingredients and traditional Zimbabwean dishes alongside international options. Most accommodations provide full-board packages including bush breakfast and dinner experiences. Day visitors should bring packed lunches or arrange meals through tour operators. The nearby town of Kezi has basic restaurants, while Bulawayo offers a full range of dining options from local eateries serving sadza and meat to upscale restaurants with international cuisine.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Zimbabwe

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

The Lookout Cafe - Wild Horizons

4.6 /5
(2048 reviews) 2
bar cafe store

Dusty Road Township Experience

4.6 /5
(313 reviews) 2

KwaTerry The traditional restaurant

4.6 /5
(297 reviews)

Baines Restaurant

4.8 /5
(261 reviews)
bar cafe

MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant

4.6 /5
(252 reviews)

Khaya Nyama Wombles

4.7 /5
(210 reviews)

When to Visit

The dry season from April to October offers the best overall experience with clear skies, minimal rainfall, and excellent wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. May to August provides the most comfortable temperatures (15-25°C) and is ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and outdoor activities. September and October can be hot but offer exceptional wildlife sightings before the rains begin. The wet season (November-March) brings lush landscapes and migratory birds but can make some roads impassable and climbing dangerous due to slippery rocks.

Insider Tips

Book rhino tracking in advance as spots are limited and fill quickly, especially during peak season
Bring layers of clothing as temperatures can vary dramatically between day and night, particularly in winter months
Respect the sacred nature of rock art sites - never touch the paintings as oils from skin can cause irreversible damage to these ancient treasures

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