Urema Floodplain
Planície de inundação do Urema
Grasslands and wetlands on the floor of the Rift Valley, home to waterbucks, lions, elephants and hippos. This is the heart of the park's safari experience.
The Planície de inundação do Urema is the heart of the Gorongosa ecosystem. In the rainy season, the lake overflows. When the waters recede in the dry season, they leave behind lush grass that attracts herds of waterbuck, bushbuck, warthogs, African buffalo and elephants. Lions often lie in wait among the palm and acacia woodlands. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for a park safari in an open 4x4. Occasionally you may spot reintroduced African wild dogs and leopards. Safaris must be booked through Chitengo Camp and driven by a guide. The core of the plain is about one hour away in a single direction. During the rainy season, most roads are impassable.
Opening hours
Dry season (approx. May–November): safari vehicles depart morning and evening daily
Nearby sights
- Lake Urema
- Lion House (Casa dos Leões)
- E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Laboratory
- Chitengo Camp
- Gorongosa Coffee
- Mount Gorongosa
- Cheringoma Plateau