Hwange National Park
Experience an authentic African safari and spot the Big Five in their natural habitat.
Overview
Hwange National Park, located in western Zimbabwe, is the country’s largest national park and one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Covering an area of approximately 14,650 square kilometers, the park is home to a diverse range of habitats, from grasslands to mopane woodlands, making it a haven for wildlife. Hwange is renowned for its large elephant population, estimated to be over 40,000 strong, as well as its healthy populations of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded, including raptors and various waterbirds. Visitors to Hwange can explore the park’s vast wilderness through game drives, guided walks, and horseback safaris, offering a chance to observe Africa’s wildlife in their natural environment. With its abundance of wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Things to Do
Game Drives: Explore the park on a guided game drive to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalo, among others.
Walking Safaris: Experience the thrill of walking in the wild on a guided walking safari, allowing you to get up close to nature and learn about the park’s ecosystem.
Bird Watching: Hwange is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded in the park. Look out for species like the martial eagle, African skimmer, and southern ground hornbill.
Night Drives: Take a night drive to see nocturnal animals in action, such as hyenas, leopards, and owls, which are not often seen during the day.
Visit Ngamo Village: Experience the local culture with a visit to Ngamo Village, where you can interact with the villagers, learn about their way of life, and purchase local crafts.
Visit Painted Dog Conservation: Learn about efforts to conserve the endangered African wild dog and other wildlife at the Painted Dog Conservation center.
What to See
Waterholes: Hwange is known for its numerous artificial waterholes, which attract large herds of elephants and other wildlife, providing excellent game viewing opportunities.
Nehimba Seep: Visit Nehimba Seep, a natural spring that provides water for wildlife year-round, making it an ideal spot for game viewing.
Davison’s Camp: Explore Davison’s Camp, located in a remote part of the park, offering exclusive wildlife viewing opportunities and a peaceful retreat.
Nyamandhlovu Pan: Visit Nyamandhlovu Pan, a large natural pan that attracts a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and a variety of bird species.
Kennedy Vlei: Explore Kennedy Vlei, a vast grassy plain that is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
Sinamatella Area: Visit the Sinamatella area for stunning views of the park and the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and sable antelopes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hwange National Park is during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife congregates around waterholes, making it easier to spot them. The park is also less crowded during this time, providing a more exclusive safari experience.
Getting there
By Road: Hwange National Park is easily accessible by road from major cities in Zimbabwe, such as Victoria Falls and Bulawayo. The park has well-maintained roads leading to its various entrances.
By Air: The nearest international airport is Victoria Falls Airport, which is located about a 2-hour drive from the park. Domestic flights are also available from Harare and Bulawayo to Hwange National Park, providing convenient access for visitors.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Hwange Safari Lodge
Located near Hwange National Park, this mid-range lodge offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the park. The lodge features spacious rooms, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can also enjoy guided safaris into the park.
Elephant’s Eye, Hwange
Situated on a private concession near the park, this mid-range lodge offers luxury tented accommodations. The lodge features well-appointed tents with en-suite bathrooms, a restaurant serving gourmet meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy game drives and bush walks in the concession.
Luxury Accommodation:
Linkwasha Camp
Located in a private concession in Hwange National Park, this luxury camp offers exclusive accommodations. The camp features luxurious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a dining area serving gourmet meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy guided game drives and walks in the concession.
Davison’s Camp
Situated in the eastern part of Hwange National Park, this luxury camp offers elegant tented accommodations. The camp features spacious tents with private verandas, a dining area serving delicious meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can experience game drives and walks in the park.
Other Attractions in Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls
Gonarezhou National Park
Nyanga National Park
Manapools National Park
Matusadona National Park
Chizarira National Park
Zambezi National Park
General Knowledge Base
General information about Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe.
Hwange National Park is located in western Zimbabwe, near the border with Botswana.
Hwange National Park covers an area of approximately 14,651 square kilometers (5,656 square miles).
Hwange National Park is known for its diverse wildlife and large elephant population, making it one of the best places in Africa for wildlife viewing.
The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and many more.
Visitors to Hwange National Park can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and birdwatching.
Yes, the park is home to several ancient San (Bushmen) rock art sites.
Yes, the park offers guided tours led by experienced guides who can provide insights into the park’s wildlife and history.
