Hwange National Park !Elephants at a waterhole in Hwange National Park Covering over 14,600 square kilometers (5,800 square miles), Hwange National Park is…
Covering over 14,600 square kilometers (5,800 square miles), Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve and one of Africa’s premier safari destinations. Located in the northwest of the country, just a 2-hour drive from Victoria Falls, Hwange combines accessibility with an authentic wilderness experience.
Hwange National Park offers a world-class safari experience with several distinctive features:
Massive elephant population: Home to over 45,000 elephants, one of the largest concentrations in Africa
Diverse wildlife: More than 100 mammal species and 400 bird species
Rich predator sightings: Lions, leopards, cheetahs, and one of Africa’s largest remaining wild dog populations
Varied landscapes: From dense teak forests to open savanna and semi-desert scrub
Fewer crowds: Compared to more famous parks in neighboring countries
Year-round waterholes: Artificial pumped waterholes supplement natural pans, ensuring wildlife viewing even in dry season
Hwange is renowned for its exceptional diversity of large mammals:
Hwange’s most famous residents, with herds of 100+ gathering at waterholes during dry season. The park is known for its enormous elephant bulls with impressive tusks.
Healthy populations of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Several lion prides are habituated to vehicles, allowing for spectacular viewing opportunities.
Hwange provides a vital stronghold for this endangered species, with several active packs regularly sighted.
Sable, roan, greater kudu, and the diminutive Sharpe’s grysbok are among the 20+ antelope species found in the park.
Special Note: Hwange is one of the few places in Africa where you might encounter both brown and spotted hyenas in the same area.
Hwange’s diverse habitats support an impressive array of birdlife:
Raptors: Martial eagles, bateleurs, and secretary birds
Ground hornbills: With their distinctive red facial skin
Bradfield’s hornbill: A regional specialty
Kori bustard: Africa’s heaviest flying bird
Migratory species: Present during the wet season (November-April)
Hwange is divided into three main regions, each with distinct characteristics:
Northern Hwange (Main Camp Area)
The most accessible and developed section, featuring:
Headquarters at Main Camp with a network of accessible roads
Mixed woodland and savanna habitats
Nyamandhlovu Pan: Famous elephant viewing platform
Several accommodations ranging from camping to luxury lodges
Central Hwange (Sinamatella Area)
Known for its hilly terrain and scenic views:
Spectacular vistas from Sinamatella Camp
Rock formations and rugged landscape
Less crowded than Main Camp area
Good for spotting klipspringer and other hill-dwelling species
Southern Hwange (Robins/Detema Area)
The most remote section with a true wilderness feel:
Limited infrastructure and fewer visitors
Open plains with excellent visibility
Concentration of predators around Ngweshla Pan
Exclusive concessions with high-end safari experiences
Game drives are the primary activity in Hwange, with both park-operated and private concession options:
Public Game Drives:
Self-driving is permitted on main roads
National Parks operated game drives from Main Camp and Sinamatella
Typically 3-4 hours in morning or afternoon
Private Concession Game Drives:
Offered by lodges in private concessions
Off-road driving permitted for exceptional sightings
Guided by highly trained professionals
Night drives available in some areas
Best Time: Early morning (6:00-9:30 AM) and late afternoon (3:30-6:30 PM) offer optimal wildlife viewing and comfortable temperatures.
Experience the bush from a different perspective on a guided walking safari:
Available from most private lodges and camps
Led by professional armed guides with extensive knowledge
Focus on tracks, plants, insects, and smaller fauna
Thrilling opportunity to approach large game on foot (at a safe distance)
Morning walks typically last 3-4 hours
Limited to max 8 guests per armed guide
Note: Walking safaris are not permitted with children under 16 years old.
Hwange’s network of waterholes offers outstanding stationary wildlife viewing:
Public hides at Nyamandhlovu and Dom pans
Lodge hides overlooking active waterholes
Particularly productive during dry season (June-October)
Opportunity for uninterrupted photography and observation
Some lodges offer night viewing with spotlights or infrared
Insider Tip: Spending a full afternoon at a hide during late dry season almost guarantees spectacular elephant herds and possibly predators.
Main Camp Lodges and Camping
Sinamatella Camp
Robins Camp
Nantwich Lodge
Hwange Safari Lodge
Miombo Safari Camp
Ivory Lodge
Bomani Tented Lodge
The Hide Safari Camp
Somalisa Camp
Davison’s Camp
Linkwasha Camp
Insider Recommendation: Staying at a waterhole-facing room or tent provides 24-hour wildlife viewing. Many guests report seeing elephants, buffalo, and even lions right from their veranda.
Dry Season (May-October)
The most popular time to visit, offering exceptional wildlife viewing:
Water sources concentrate animals at predictable locations
Thinning vegetation improves visibility
Comfortable daytime temperatures (though September-October can be very hot)
Peak season pricing and higher visitor numbers (though still uncrowded compared to many parks)
Best for: Maximum wildlife sightings, photography, first-time safari-goers
Wet Season (November-April)
The green season offers different but rewarding experiences:
Lush landscapes and dramatic skies excellent for photography
Newborn animals and migrant birds
Lower rates and fewer visitors
Full waterholes and flowing rivers enhance scenery
Some roads may become impassable after heavy rains
Wildlife more dispersed and sometimes harder to spot
Best for: Bird enthusiasts, photographers, budget travelers, returning visitors
How Much Time to Spend
Minimum: 2 nights
Recommended: 3-4 nights to explore different areas
Ideal: 5+ nights for in-depth experience and multiple activities
Getting There
From Victoria Falls: 2-hour drive (185 km)
From Bulawayo: 3.5-hour drive (335 km)
From Harare: 8-hour drive (700 km)
Charter flights: Available to several airstrips within and near the park
Transfers: Most lodges offer road transfers from Victoria Falls
Park Fees
International visitors: $20 USD per person per day
Vehicle entry fee: $10 USD per day
Fees payable at park gates in USD (cash)
Some accommodations include park fees in their rates
Self-driving
4x4 vehicle recommended, especially in wet season
Main roads accessible by sedan in dry season
Carry extra fuel, water, and food
Purchase official park map at entrance gates
Check in at park offices when moving between areas
Hwange faces several conservation challenges:
Water management: Most waterholes rely on pumped groundwater
Poaching pressure: Ongoing threats to elephants and other wildlife
Human-wildlife conflict: With surrounding communities
Climate change: Increasing drought frequency and intensity
Many lodges contribute to conservation and community initiatives. Ask about their specific projects and how you can support them during your stay.
Wildlife Safety: Always follow guide instructions and never leave your vehicle outside of designated areas. Even in camps, remain vigilant as wildlife moves freely throughout the park.