Gilé National Reserve
Overview
Mozambique Parks
Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Bradt guidebooks to African destinations, including the guide to Mozambique.
Gilé National Reserve suffered greatly during the civil war. Poaching has been an ongoing problem and wildlife numbers are still low. There are no tourist facilities. Self-sufficient campers can probably pitch a tent at the ranger post. French aid has facilitated a rehabilitation project and 40 buffalo from Niassa were reintroduced in 2013. There has been very little research on the birdlife, but the variety of habitats looks promising from a birding perspective.
Pros & Cons
Wildlife
Little is known about the wildlife in Gilé National Reserve. The last survey was in 2007 and about 40 mammal species were recorded including elephant, buffalo, greater kudu, eland, sable, bushbuck and waterbuck. There are probably some leopards preying on these animals, and it is possible that there are still some lions and wild dogs as well.
Scenery
The reserve is dominated by dense woodland cut through by several rivers with riverine forest along the banks. An interesting feature are the dongas – grassland areas which become flooded in the rainy season.
Weather & Climate
The weather and climate of Gilé National Reserve is comparable to that of Mozambique in general. More info:
Best Time To Visit
Gilé National Reserve is best visited in the dry winter months from June to October. At this time wildlife will be easier to see as the vegetation is less thick, and animals congregate around permanent water sources. The roads might be very difficult to navigate in the wet summer months.
Getting There
Gilé National Reserve is a self-drive destination for self-sufficient, adventurous campers. Access to the reserve is by 4x4 only. Even in a 4x4, avoid the rainy season (from November to May) as the roads might deteriorate badly. Gilé is located in the Zambezia Province about 300km/186mi from Nampula and the drive takes about 5 hours* in the Dry season.
*Driving times are only a rough indication. You should always consider the possibility of significant delays.
Health & Safety
Please read our vaccinations and malaria page for Mozambique, and our general wildlife viewing safety precautions page for more info: