Matobo National Park- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe's oldest national park, offers a unique blend of natural, historical, and cultural treasures. Lying approximately 35 kilometres south of Bulawayo, this iconic landscape is characterized by an array of granite kopjes and wooded valleys, a testament to over 2 billion years of geological activity. The granite formations have weathered into awe-inspiring shapes, including smooth "whaleback dwalas" and the renowned balancing rocks, creating a stunning backdrop for a diverse array of flora and fauna. With an expansive coverage of around 3,100 km², of which 424 km² is designated as National Park, Matobo's terrain is a vibrant mosaic of communal lands, commercial farmland, and protected areas including a game park home to white rhinoceroses among other wildlife. Its geographical significance is complemented by a rich biodiversity that boasts over 200 species of trees, a wide range of aloes, wild herbs, and over 100 grass species, along with numerous rare endemic plants. The national park supports an extraordinary variety of animals including the world's densest population of leopards, due in part to an abundance of their primary prey, the hyrax. The white and black rhinoceroses, sable antelopes, impala, and various bird species including the globally significant population of black eagles, find sanctuary within its boundaries. Matobo's historical and cultural depth is unparalleled, narrated through over 3,000 registered rock art sites left by the San people around 2,000 years ago. These ancient artworks, alongside archaeological finds, illuminate the lives of its earliest inhabitants. Major sites like the Bambata Cave and Inanke Cave offer a glimpse into the prehistoric mind, revealing a blend of artistic and survivalist endeavours of these ancient communities. Further adding to its allure, the park is steeped in modern history with its connection to key historical figures and events, including Cecil Rhodes and the meeting point of the Second Matabele War, signalling a profound period of conflict and colonial expansion. Memorials and burial sites, particularly on Malindidzimu – the 'hill of the spirits', stir deep reflections on Zimbabwe's complex past. Matobo National Park extends a suite of recreational activities to its visitors. The accessibility of the park by road from Bulawayo and the variety of experiences available, from game viewing, hiking, and trail riding to fishing and boating, offer a comprehensive adventure into Zimbabwe's natural and cultural heritage.