Call us today from 9:30am: +44 117 313 3300

A unique property with an elevated Gorge location & a strong focus on wilderness and conservation.

Cost Per Night
Perfect For

Families, Couples, Honeymooners, Groups

From its elevated position, Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge, commands spectacular panoramas over the Save River and the Gonarezhou National Park - one of the few true wilderness areas remaining. This property is unique with a strong focus on wilderness and conservation which stems from owner and professional guide Clive Stockil, founding father of award-winning CAMP FIRE Project.

Gonarezhou, translated as "place of many elephants" has been named in honour of the majestic beasts which roam the land. The national park, in Zimbabwe's south eastern sector shares borders with South Africa's Kruger National Park and Mozambique's Limpopo National Park, in a pan-African wilderness region now known as the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park. Relatively removed from the beaten tourist track, Gonarezhou is an unspoilt reserve boasting open plains, mighty rivers, cliffs and gorges.

Panoramic views over rugged landscape, the cascade of the Chibilila Falls into the Runde, and the Duguvi Falls in the rainy season, provide soul food for those gazing on the region's natural beauty. The stunning Chilojo Cliffs have been carved from the land; centuries of erosion reveal a myriad of hues, the passage of the ages etched indelibly into the red sandstone rock face. These rugged natural structures gaze out over the Runde River Valley.

Ten luxury rooms have private balconies with a seating area and stunning views. Inspired by nature, interiors are simple and elegant with bespoke locally crafted touches. Double-storey central spaces are large, open and constructed of stone, timber and thatch. Savour meals in the dining room or on the deck, sundowners in the informal bar, or unwind in one of a variety of lounges, whilst appreciating the scenery.

Enjoy guided game drives in the park, or a sensory guided game walk. The Tambahata Pan is great for birding and guests can experience the local Shangaan way of life with a Mahenye Village visit. Additional activities include short boat cruises on the Save River (water-level dependent), a walk to Chivilila Falls, fishing (water-level dependent) and a full day excursion to the iconic and beautiful Chilojo Cliffs.

Call us on +44 117 313 3300 to start planning your holiday, we’re looking forward to hearing from you

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The Lodge

The ten beautifully appointed, thatched Luxury King/Twin rooms are largely inspired by nature, but with a designer’s passion for elegance, simplicity and luxurious touches. Locally crafted intricate reed weaving, individually carved jacaranda headboards, luxurious cotton bedding, and a mini bar have all been carefully chosen for your comfort and enjoyment.

Each room has its own private balcony offering spectacular sunrises or sunsets and the opportunity for you to relax watching our resident elephants, crocodiles and hippos in the Save river that flows all year, or to observe the diverse number of other river visitors throughout the day.

The main lodge has everything you need; a shaded swimming pool, a sumptuous lounge, a library, a bar and dining room, all surrounded by beautifully tended gardens. Even here, at the heart of Chilo, the great African wilderness is never far away. You can watch our local elephants, hippos and crocodiles cooling off in the waters of the river from the viewing deck.

Dining

Meals are often served on individual tables and can be set up by the pool or indoors in the more traditional dining area. Food is hearty safari food, using fresh local ingredients and bush dining can be arranged.

Activities

Camp activities include: game drives, game walks, village tours, bird walks, Chivilila Falls hike and sundowners or full day activity into the Gonarezhou National Park. Canoeing is available during rainy season on the Save River.

Why Wayfairer

Chilo Gorge lodge is all about community led conservation. Clive Stockil understands the delicate balance between humans and wildlife and doesn’t sugar coat the issues of living in proximity to wildlife.

The CAMPFIRE program was set up to encourage community involvement in conservation and show direct benefits from tourism. This was extremely successful and to continue this momentum there is now the Mahenye Charitable Trust that further benefits the community and makes it even easier for guests to support further initiatives.  

Call us on +44 117 313 3300 to start planning your holiday, we’re looking forward to hearing from you

or

Talk to the team

Find out more and tailor your perfect trip with the help of
our specialist team on +44 117 313 3300