Lake Urema is the heart of Gorongosa: a shallow floodplain lake alive with hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds, and the grazing animals that work the margins. The lake changes dramatically with the seasons, spreading into a broad wetland after rain and contracting into more concentrated water in the dry months.
Boat safaris sometimes operate when water levels allow, but even from the shore the lake is memorable. Bring binoculars and patience; the best moments are often not the big animals but the movement of herons, storks, and fish eagles across the reeds.