Beautifully located in the heart of Gonarezhou
Chilo offers access to pristine wilderness and outstanding wildlife viewing
Set overlooking a wide sweep of the Save River, Chilo Gorge boasts one of the most spectacular locations for a lodge in all of Zimbabwe and offers guests a truly memorable safari experience. There is a feeling of understated luxury here, with guests encouraged to treat the lodge as a home away from home in the heart of the bush.
Each of the ten chalets is set along the clifftop with private decking areas at the front which are the perfect spot to relax with a good book in the afternoons. Inside the chalets are all spacious and comfortable with large thatched rooves helping to keep them cool, even in the height of summer. There are mini-bars in the rooms so you can treat yourself to drinks whilst relaxing there in the afternoons. The main area is a lovely, multi-level space with a bar, lounge and dining area as well as a small library, Wooden steps lead down to a sparkling swimming pool, a lovely spot to sit back, relax and take in the afternoon sunshine. Despite the remote location the food at Chilo is superb and meals are served in a variety of inspiring locations including, when the weather allows, out on the deck.
Chilo offers guests the chance to morning, late afternoon and full day safaris, with the programme varying depending on the time of year. Guided walks are a great way to enjoy this pristine wilderness and learn more about the smaller things, often missed on game drives, whilst guests on longer stays can enjoy trips to the Chilojo Cliffs and Chivalia Falls.
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Gonarezhou National Park Trip Inspiration
When to go to Zimbabwe
Find out the best time to visit Zimbabwe with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is an excellent time to head out with expert guides and view resident and migratory bird species. The days are warm, with the risk of rain, this clears very fast as it arrives.
February
February is the best time for birders. The days are warm, with the risk of afternoon rain showers, but they clear as fast as they arrive.
March
If you want to witness Vic Falls at its fullest, March is the month to visit, with huge volumes of spray, it is perfect if you want to see the gorges and geology of the area.
April
The world famous Mana Pools re-open in April. The days feel fresher as the wet season ends leaving the landscapes looking lush green, making it perfect for walking safaris.
May
In May, the days continue to feel fresh and bright making it a perfect time to venture out on walking safaris.
June
June heralds the return of winter, nights turn colder and the temperature dips - take plenty of layers as the temperature can drop below freezing. It is the perfect time for photographers to explore Hwange National Park before the busy holiday period.
July
Winter temperatures continue into July so take plenty of layers. Much like June, it is perfect for photographers looking to view wildlife from a different angle.
August
If you want clear, bright blue skies and continuous wildlife sightings, August is the month for you. Camps are likely to be fuller, however, if you visit private concessions you can still experience exclusivity and no crowds.
September
Much like August, September is an amazing time for wildlife spotting and weather, in particular it is considered the best time of year to see elephant herds in Hwange National Park.
October
In October wildlife sightings are at their peak as the dry season ends. If you travel during this month you can experience hot days with temperatures soaring up to 40 degrees.
November
November is the best time to head out with expert guides and view resident and migratory bird species. The days are warm, with the risk of rain, this clears very fast as it arrives. It is low season and one of the best times to go white water rafting at Vic Falls, the volume and speed of the water is reduced exposing the rapids.
December
In December the days are warm with the risk of rain showers mid afternoon. The rivers rise and dependant on water levels travellers can visit 'devils pool' at Vic Falls, providing high excitement and a head for heights needed if you want to get close to the drop off.
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Alistair
Ruth
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