Wilderness Campsites
Be at one with nature and set up camp in a truly secluded and scenic area of the park, far from the madding crowd.
Welcome to Wilderness Campsites
Experience the raw beauty of Matusadona by selecting one of the park’s numerous designated wilderness camping areas, carefully chosen for their scenic vistas and proximity to wildlife. These sites offer a pure, unaltered wilderness experience, requiring complete self-sufficiency as there is no infrastructure present.
Immerse yourself fully in nature by either setting up a base at one location or embarking on a “road trip” adventure, moving between several sites. This allows you to truly appreciate the diverse landscapes and ecosystems that make Matusadona unique. From lakeside camps to rugged inland spots, each area presents its own charm and opportunities for wildlife encounters. The reward is an intimate connection with the wilderness, free from modern distractions. Whether you’re watching the sunset over Lake Kariba or listening to the night sounds of the African bush, these wilderness camping experiences offer memories that will last a lifetime.
Jenje Wilderness Platform is located in the scenic interior, the platform overlooking a spring that attracts all manner of wildlife.
Dominated by mountainous scenery, Hogwe River is set in the interior alongside the river after which it is named.
View Point is situated on the edge of the 600m high Zambezi Escarpment with views over the low-lying valley floor and adjacent Lake Kariba.
Bonde Campsite is set in the northern portion of the park overlooking Lake Kariba.
Maronga is scenically located on the river mouth of the Ume River, overlooking Kariba on the park’s western border.
Shenga Wilderness is a beautifully shaded campsite located on a sharp bend of the Shenga River. The Shenga River is a perennial spring from which water flows all year round.
Overlooking its namesake river, Mhukadzapera Wilderness is found under a huge tambourine tree. Animal movement in the area is high due to its location close to the floodplain.
Matandare is the park’s southernmost campsite, close to the park entrance – and a good stopover before you head north. It is situated on the Matandare Spring under a canopy riverine forest
Experiences
Self-Drive through the Park
From sunrise to sunset, visitors are free to explore the park’s exceptional landscape from their own vehicle.
photo credit Melanie van Zyl
Guided Game Drives
Get a unique perspective of the park through the eyes of local guides when you hop on one of our morning or afternoon guided game drives.
photo credit Melanie van Zyl
Guided Walking Safaris
Set out on a two- to three-hour or half-day walk with one of our knowledgeable guides who will reveal the park’s hidden wonders.
Matusadona Trails
Embark on a multi-day hike through Matusadona’s rugged escarpment. These guided treks offer a raw wilderness experience, accessible only on foot – for fit, healthy adults. Advance bookings essential.
image credit Melanie Van Zyl
Boating
Enjoy Kariba’s fabled waters in your own boat or book a guided boating trip with us. Explore submerged forests, encounter diverse aquatic life, and witness spectacular wildlife gatherings.
Fishing
Experience the thrill of fishing on Lake Kariba, Ume River or the dramatic Sanyati Gorge, where the waters teem with diverse fish species.
Birdwatching
Birders can view around 400 species, including seldom-seen specials such as Taita falcon, African pitta, and Pel’s fishing-owl. The island heronry (accessible by boat) is a must.
photo credit Bad Rabbit Studio
More about Wilderness Campsites
- The wilderness campsites are in wild, unfenced sites and campers must be fully self-sufficient.
- Bring all camping equipment including water and sanitation facilities.
- Child Policy – Children of all ages welcome.
- Matusadona is a predator-dense park, and buffalo and elephant roam in big numbers, so children should be supervised at all times.
How to Get There
Reservations:
reservations.matusadona@africanparks.org
+263 78 677 4616
Rates
Please download the latest rates here.
Visiting a park managed by African Parks is one of the best ways to support communities, wildlife conservation, and the long-term success of Africa’s wild areas. Use the link below to plan your visit today!