Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage
A long-running orphanage outside Bulawayo taking in injured and orphaned wild animals since 1973.
Updated 2 September 2026
Chipangali was founded in 1973 by Viv Wilson, a former game ranger, to take in orphaned and injured wild animals, and it has run since on the same basis: animals arrive from across the country, are treated and where possible released, and those that cannot be released stay. Lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena, primates and a range of birds and antelope are kept. It also runs an education programme for schools.
What's there
- The rescued animals - orphaned and injured wildlife from across the country.
- The big cats - lion, leopard and cheetah among the permanent residents.
- The release work - the animals rehabilitated and returned to the wild.
- The education programme - the school work the orphanage runs.
When to go
April to October is the dry season. Feeding times draw the most activity. It closes on some days and hours vary.
Before you go
These are captive animals in enclosures, several of them small and dated. Funding has been difficult and the facilities show it. Not every animal can be released and many stay for life.
Nearby
Bulawayo is northwest, and Matobo is west.
What to pack for Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Binoculars - The single best wildlife tool - even a compact pair transforms a sighting. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- A zoom camera or long lens - Animals rarely come close; reach beats megapixels. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
