Lion and Cheetah Park

The park is located about 23 kilometers west of Harare and is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entrance fees are currently set at approximately 12 USD for adults and 6 USD for children aged between 2 and 12 years. These fees usually cover the guided walking tours of the animal enclosures, where you can see monkeys, crocodiles, and jackals. For those interested in more active adventures, the park offers additional activities such as quad bike tours for 10 USD and short horse rides for around 5 USD. There is an on-site cafe, Shumba Cafe, which serves light meals, snacks, and refreshments. Facilities also include clean restrooms and a kiosk for essentials. The park is well-maintained and designed for both self-drive visitors and those joining guided groups, ensuring a comfortable and organized visit for all ages.

Before you set off, ensure your vehicle is in good working order if you plan to do the self-drive lion enclosure. While the paths are manageable for most cars, the drive-through requires you to keep your windows rolled up at all times for safety. It is a good idea to bring a pair of binoculars for spotting game in the larger 500-acre park area. If you are traveling with children, don't miss the chance to meet Tommy the tortoise, as he is a hit for photos. Cash in small denominations is helpful for paying for extra activities like horse riding or purchasing snacks. The park can get quite busy on weekends and public holidays, so arriving early is recommended to avoid the crowds. Lastly, remember that while the animals are in enclosures, they are still wild; always follow the instructions provided by the park rangers and guides.

Getting to the Lion and Cheetah Park from Harare is a very simple and direct journey. From the city center, you head west out of town along Samora Machel Avenue, which eventually becomes the Bulawayo Road (A5). You will continue on this main highway for approximately 23 kilometers. Look out for the well-marked signage on the left-hand side of the road near the Somerby area. The turn-off leads you over a railway line and directly to the park gates. The entire drive typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes depending on the city's traffic. If you do not have your own vehicle, you can easily hire a private taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Vaya or Hwindi from the city. Most hotels in Harare can also arrange a shuttle service or a private driver for a half-day excursion to the park.