Best hotels in Gorongosa

Having survived decades of turmoil and emerged on the other side, Gorongosa National Park is a champion for bringing wild spaces and species back from the brink. Part of this ongoing transformation is the development of a handful of properties, including the feather-light Chicari Camp. Built anew every season near a pan of the same name, Chicari is perfectly positioned to watch animals of every size and shape arrive for a drink at the water. The tents are canvas and classic with a superb view and the whole camp is wonderfully eco-conscious, which only makes you appreciate the hard-won setting even more.

Set in an exquisite riverine forest on the edge of an oxbow lagoon, Muzimu Lodge is at the heart of one of Africa's most extraordinary conservation success stories. After decades of civil war devastated Gorongosa, American philanthropist Greg Carr's ambitious restoration project has brought the park roaring back to life – and Muzimu, Gorongosa’s flagship camp, offers front-row seats to its remarkable recovery. There are just six canvas rooms (and, from 2027, three ‘island’ tents), all with en-suite bathrooms and large verandas, connected by wooden walkways to a shady swimming pool and spacious lounge and dining area. It’s also a central hub for many of the park’s pioneering conservation and community initiatives and a stay here is thoughtful and considered in every way.