Banhine National Park, in the Chigubo district of Gaza province, is an ecological gem that preserves a rich biodiversity and plays a crucial role in the conservation of the country's semi-arid ecosystems.
Created in 1973 and integrated into the National System of Conservation Areas, the park covers an area of approximately 7,250 km² and is characterised by vast plains, savannas, seasonal swamps and mopane forests.
Banhine is known for its semi-arid savannah, where you can see unique species such as the ostrich, hippos in its lakes and mystical baobab trees. In 1973, it was designated a National Park to ensure the unique biodiversity of this type of climate, having been threatened in the previous decade by the capture of species for international zoos, ivory trafficking, illegal hunting and a period of severe drought that mainly affected terrestrial species.
Despite being one of the least explored parks in Mozambique, Banhine is home to a remarkable diversity of species, including antelopes, zebras, hyenas and a variety of water birds, making it a promising destination for ecotourism. The presence of underground aquifers and seasonal wetlands favours the existence of fauna and flora adapted to the arid conditions of the region.
In recent years, the Mozambican government and conservation organisations have worked to strengthen the protection of the park, combating poaching and promoting the participation of local communities in the sustainable management of natural resources. Ecotourism has emerged as a viable alternative to boost the socio-economic development of the region, while ensuring the preservation of wildlife and natural habitats.
The park, which is gradually re-emerging with the translocation of the most affected species, welcomes visitors to an area prepared for ecotourism, where they can spend the night and go on safaris along its land routes.
Despite the challenges it faces, including environmental degradation and pressure from agricultural expansion, Banhine National Park represents a natural refuge of incalculable value. With investment in infrastructure and environmental awareness, the site has the potential to become one of Mozambique’s main tourist hubs, standing out for its role in protecting biodiversity and the ecological balance of the region.
(By Rafael Langa)
