Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe
Chilo Gorge is a luxury safari lodge on the edge of the stunning wilderness of Gonarezhou National Park, in South-East Zimbabwe. We offer guests access to the pristine wilderness of Gonarezhou, with the authentic animal interaction which goes with a park which is rarely visited.
Gonarezhou is a gem among African parks which offers experienced safari travelers an increasingly rare ability to explore untouched Africa. In addition, through the work of Chilo director, Clive Stockil, there is a very powerful community and conservation story which is at the heart of why the lodge was built and how it operates.
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When Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge was built, we brought the outside in. Each of the 10 chalets are spacious, simple, and elegant, providing all the comforts of home. A handsome palette of natural materials creates a haven from the heat of the day, a place to rest and recoup, and to prepare for your next big adventure.
Chilo's all-inclusive luxury chalets sleep two, and come with a spacious en-suite bathroom complete with complimentary toiletries. A private balcony and seating area commands superior views, offering a serene space to unwind after a lively day. Other amenities include a mini bar, tea and coffee facilities, and a safe. One option for families is the two luxury rooms with an extended interconnecting balcony, which provides easy private access between the rooms for all the family.
The beautiful main lodge built from stone, thatch, ancient teak and leadwood has everything you need; a shaded swimming pool, upstairs viewing area, seating area and library, an inviting bar and dining room, as well as outside dining areas, all surrounded by beautifully tended gardens. Even here, at the heart of Chilo, the great African wilderness is never far away. You can watch elephants, hippos and crocodiles cooling off in the waters of the river from the viewing deck, as well as a variety of other wildlife which may come and go throughout the day to drink.
Whether it’s exhilarating game drives through the park, excursions to the epic Chilojo Cliffs, or a day spent birdwatching, we have a wide range of activities to suit every guest. When the day is done and you’ve enjoyed sundowners on the Save River, filled page after page of your journal around the campfire, or spent a day with the people of Mahenye Village, sleep will come easy. You know when you wake, it will be there waiting for you, all over again.
Or for those with a penchant for something a bit more active and adventurous, Gonarezhou is a great destination for game walks. There is also the 3km hiking trail from the lodge to the beautiful Chivilia Falls is a great way to start or end your day. Trekking through a rugged landscape will lead you to a viewpoint overlooking the falls. As the water cascades over age-old rocks, take in the sights and satisfy your thirst with some well deserved refreshments.
The intimate working relationship between the lodge and the local Shangaan community makes a visit to Mahenye Village a rewarding and educational experience. The Cultural home, built with funds raised by Chilo, provides insight into Shangaan society. At the annual Mahenye Festival, taking place in September, you get a chance to witness a celebration of Shangaan culture, including traditional dancing, local food and drink, and the time-honored fish drive in the Save River.
The following camps compliment Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge well, and should be considered when extending an itinerary.
Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe
Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe
Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
305 Booty Lane, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Tel: (757) 428 1166 / Fax: (757) 428 0554 / Toll Free: 1 800 322 3867