Parque Nacional da Gorongosa Moçambique

The highest peak of Mt. Gorongosa, known locally as "Gogogo", reaches a towering height of 1863 meters. The mountain is an area rich in history and culture and is considered a sacred place by the local communities. The people who live on the mountain speak a unique dialect of the Sena language called chi-Gorongosi. The exact origin of the word "Gogogo" is unclear but there are many stories which are passed down through the generations.

The most commonly believed story is that the word "Gogogo" originated during the wars with the Nguni tribe (known locally as Mabzviti) who invaded the mountain in the 19th century. During these wars the people used their knowledge of the local terrain to their advantage. They fled high up to the peak of Mt. Gorongosa where they waited for the Nguni invaders to follow. To reach the peak there is a very narrow passage which forced the Nguni to pass one-by-one, while shouting "go!go!go!". The people were able to defend themselves and their mountain with rocks and arrows as the invaders emerged on the other side.

Today, "Gogogo" is considered to be a chi-Gorongosi word, but the origins may actually be tied to the Zulu language of the Nguni people. If you get the opportunity to hike Mt. Gorongosa, you should ask your local guide their story of the meaning of Gogogo.