Things to Do in Lion and Cheetah Park

You can walk with semi-tame lions just 45 minutes from Harare. Lion and Cheetah Park offers Zimbabwe's most accessible big cat encounters without requiring a full safari expedition. Total game changer. This conservation facility houses lions, cheetahs, leopards, and various antelope species in managed enclosures that allow surprisingly close contact. The park cares for orphaned and rescued animals while educating visitors about wildlife preservation efforts across Zimbabwe. Perfect for families. Expect a wildlife park experience rather than wild safari—these animals are habituated to humans and live in controlled environments.

The on-site restaurant serves basic meals, sandwiches, and drinks with somewhat limited options. Many visitors pack picnic lunches for the designated areas scattered throughout the grounds. Smart move. Better dining waits along Borrowdale Road heading back to Harare, including good spots for traditional Zimbabwean cuisine. Consider lunch at Borrowdale Village shopping center, which offers casual to upscale dining options just minutes from the park.

May to October delivers the most comfortable weather for walking around the park. Cooler temperatures, minimal rainfall, and more active animals make this the prime season. Animals move most during early morning and late afternoon hours. Summer months bring hot, humid conditions with afternoon thunderstorms, though animals gravitate toward water sources during this period. Weekdays mean smaller crowds. Better photos guaranteed.