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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 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.

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Why Visit Hwange

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

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Wildlife Highlights

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Mammals

Hwange is renowned for its exceptional diversity of large mammals:

Elephants

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.

Big Cats

Healthy populations of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Several lion prides are habituated to vehicles, allowing for spectacular viewing opportunities.

African Wild Dogs

Hwange provides a vital stronghold for this endangered species, with several active packs regularly sighted.

Rare Antelope

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.

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Birds

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)

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Park Regions

Hwange is divided into three main regions, each with distinct characteristics:

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Safari Experiences

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Game Drives

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.

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Walking Safaris

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.

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Hide and Waterhole Viewing

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.

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Where to Stay

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Accommodation Options

Budget

  • Main Camp Lodges and Camping
  • Sinamatella Camp
  • Robins Camp
  • Nantwich Lodge

Mid-range

  • Hwange Safari Lodge
  • Miombo Safari Camp
  • Ivory Lodge
  • Bomani Tented Lodge

Luxury

  • 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.

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When to Visit

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Practical Information

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Conservation and Community

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.