Haka Camp Game Park: Harare Urban Wildlife Sanctuary

Haka Camp Game Park covers 2,500 hectares of savanna and wetland just 12.5 kilometers east of Harare city center along the Mutare Road. Visitors encounter wild giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests within a fifteen-minute drive of the capital central business district. This proximity makes it a vital green lung for the city, particularly as it forms part of the Cleveland Dam catchment area which has been a source of municipal water since 1913. While many travelers head to more distant national parks, this sanctuary provides a practical alternative for those with limited time or families seeking a quick weekend retreat.

Wildlife and Ecology of the Cleveland Catchment

Mammals of the Acacia Woodlands

The park hosts more than 30 mammal species that thrive in the mixed miombo and acacia woodlands. Grazers such as tsessebe, impala, and eland are frequently spotted along the open grasslands that surround the dam. Sightings of giraffes are particularly reliable — they often congregate near the taller acacia trees in the northwestern sector of the park. Keep an eye out for smaller, more elusive residents like the ground pangolin or the porcupine, though these are typically nocturnal and rarely seen during standard daylight hours. Most of the gravel loop roads are manageable for small sedans, yet a vehicle with higher clearance is definitely preferable if you plan to explore the deeper sandy tracks after a heavy rain shower.

Birding at a Global Ramsar Site

Cleveland Dam was designated as a Ramsar site in May 2013, highlighting its international importance as a wetland habitat. Over 270 bird species have been recorded within the park boundaries, including specialized waterbirds like the African pygmy goose and the African spoonbill. The dense reedbeds along the shoreline serve as a breeding ground for various herons and egrets, while the open water is the domain of the African fish eagle. Serious birders usually spend their time near the southern edge of the dam where the Mukuvisi River begins its 42-kilometer journey toward Lake Chivero. I find that the bird parties are most active just after sunrise — the early morning light hitting the water makes for much better photography than the harsh midday sun.

Practical Visitor Activities and Logistics

Equestrian Safaris and Aquatic Exploration

Horse riding offers a distinct way to view wildlife at Haka Camp as the animals tend to be less startled by horses than by motorized vehicles. These guided rides cost approximately 20 USD per person and allow for a closer approach to the zebra and wildebeest herds grazing in the vlei. For those who prefer the water, canoeing on Cleveland Dam provides a different perspective of the shoreline ecology for about 20 USD for a group of three people. The dam has a capacity of 910 million liters, providing ample space for rowing without the noise of powerboats. Fishing is another popular activity, though it is strictly managed on a catch-and-release basis to protect the local breeding stocks.

Entry Requirements and Navigational Details

The park is open daily from 06:00 to 18:00, including on public holidays. Entry fees are set at 10 USD for adults and 5 USD for children aged four to twelve, with separate fees applied for vehicle entry. Three specific rocky outcrops (kopjes) within the park contain ancient San rock art, which is a detail many visitors overlook in favor of the larger animals. These sites are reachable via short walking trails but are not always clearly signposted — asking the staff at the main gate for a rough map is a wise move. While basic picnic and braai (barbecue) areas are scattered near the water, you must bring all your own supplies as there are no retail shops inside the park boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the current entrance fees for Haka Camp Game Park?

Adults pay an entry fee of 10 USD, while children between the ages of 4 and 12 are charged 5 USD. These rates generally cover day access for self-drive game viewing, walking, and picnicking, though activities like horse riding and canoeing require additional payments.

Is a 4x4 vehicle required to visit the park?

Most of the main tracks are well-maintained gravel and are accessible to standard two-wheel-drive cars during the dry season. However, during the peak of the rainy season between December and March, certain tracks near the wetland areas can become muddy and may require a vehicle with higher clearance.

Are there guided tours available at Haka Camp?

While most visitors choose a self-drive experience, the park offers guided horse riding safaris and guided nature walks led by experienced handlers. These sessions provide deeper insight into the 398 animal and plant species that inhabit the 2,500-hectare reserve.

Can visitors see San rock art within the park?

Yes, there are three separate locations with ancient San rock art situated on granite kopjes within the park. One of the most accessible sites is located about 20 meters from a well-known geocache point and features well-preserved paintings of local wildlife.

Is camping allowed at Haka Camp Game Park?

Basic camping facilities are available for those who want to stay overnight in a more rustic environment. The cost for camping is typically around 15 USD per person, and it is recommended to bring all necessary gear and water as the sites are quite simple.