Hwange National Park
Nestled just a short 2-hour drive from the majestic Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park stands as Zimbabwe’s grandest natural treasure, spanning a vast 14,650 sq km. The park’s rich history is as captivating as its landscapes, named in honor of a local Nhanzwa chief. Before its declaration as a protected National Park in 1929, these grounds were once the chosen hunting territories of the Ndebele warrior-king, Mzilikazi.
Venturing into Hwange, you’re welcomed by a diverse tapestry of wildlife. The park is a haven for over 100 mammal species, and the skies above are graced by nearly 400 bird species. Among its most celebrated residents are the tusker elephants, a magnificent 40,000-strong herd, making every visit a truly unforgettable experience.
Sunrise in paradise
On the Prowl
Got your back
Muddle of Mutts
The quiet sleeper
Exploring Hwange
Activities To Do
Walking Safari
Discover the park on foot, following trails where wildlife thrives.
Visit The Shangaan
Visit the local Shangaan village, become captivated by the huts and fireside singing
Night Drives
Delve into Hwange’s nighttime wonders with exclusive game drives.
Bird Watching
Explore the skies & encounter a myriad of native and migratory birds.
The Safaris We Offer
We cater for a wide variety of interests for those visiting Hwange to ensure a complete experience
Honeymoon Safari
Embrace the romance of Hwange, where untouched wilderness meets intimate lodges, setting the scene for unforgettable honeymoon moments. With expert guides leading the way, every moment in the bush becomes a cherished memory. And what better way to start or conclude your Zimbabwean honeymoon safari than with the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Falls? It’s a love story written by nature itself.
Family Safari
Pondering a family safari? Set your sights on Hwange. It’s a harmonious blend of nature’s wonders and exhilarating activities for the young explorers. Dive into a hassle-free holiday that enriches parents and sparks curiosity in kids. With our seasoned guides at the helm, every activity, from game drives to boat cruises, is tailored to delight every age.
Couple Safari
Want to keep away from noisy family-focused camps, but not interested in the those activities for starry-eyed honeymooners. So, instead of drawing your attention to on certain camps, we suggest that you start by deciding which category of couple safari holiday is the best fit for you.
Bird Watching Safari
Hwange stands as a haven for bird enthusiasts, presenting such diversity across a rich tapestry of ecosystems, such as thick mopane forests, flood plains, and nourishing watering holes. As summer graces the region, the skies burgeon with myriad migratory birds returning in droves, adding to the already substantial population of resident species. In this vibrant milieu, this park emerges as a crowning glory, hosting an impressive archive of over 420 bird species, offering bird lovers a splendid canvas of nature to explore and appreciate.
Tailor-Made Safari
Whether you’re embarking on your inaugural safari or returning to the vibrant African continent, our seasoned specialists are poised to craft a voyage that embodies all your aspirations.we offer immersive activities that unveil the bushland in a refreshing manner – be it through walking safaris that spotlight the expansive ecosystem or riveting boat excursions bringing you face-to-face with majestic elephants, hippos, and vibrant bird species.
Horseback Safari
Embark on the saddle in Hwange, the place where the raw essence of Africa is vividly felt in its wild savannahs and untouched bushlands. In this landlocked haven, nature unveils itself in a symphony of astounding diversity, ready to leave any visitor awe-struck. Channel the spirit of legendary explorers as you saddle up to navigate this expansive sanctuary. This golden opportunity offers an intimate encounter with free-roaming rhinos and grants you a deeper understanding of the ongoing conservation efforts to protect them.
Why Trust Sound Of Safaris With Your Hwange Holiday?
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In our hands
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Travel Experts
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Finest Guides
Experience the best interpretive adventures with our skilled private and specialist guides.
The Exclusive Place To Stay in Hwange
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Useful Facts About Hwange
- Elephant Population: Hwange boasts one of the world’s largest elephant populations. Especially during the Dry season, large herds gather around waterholes.
- Big Cats: Lions are a common sight. With some luck, visitors might also spot cheetahs or leopards.
- Giraffes and Antelopes: Hwange is a rare spot in Zimbabwe to observe giraffes. Look out for unusual antelopes like greater kudu, gemsbok, sable, and roan antelope.
- Elephants and Rhinos: Hwange’s history is closely tied to elephants. Despite past heavy poaching, a significant elephant population resurgence occurred after protective measures were instated. White rhinos were reintroduced in 2022, and while sightings are rare, the Rhino Track and Trail Safari offers a guaranteed rhino spotting.
- Big Cats Continued: Around 700 lions reside in Hwange. Cecil’s pride, named after a lion tragically killed in a trophy hunt, remains a prominent fixture. Leopards and cheetahs are also present but are harder to spot.
- Wild Dog: Hwange has the highest population of the endangered wild dog. These remarkable dogs live in large packs and are a special treat to observe.
- Birding: Hwange offers a rich birdwatching experience. Notable species include racket-tailed rollers, purple rollers, Lilic-breasted rollers, and the Kori Bustard, among others.
- More Wildlife in Hwange: Beyond the Big Five, Hwange houses about 10,000 buffaloes, particularly near Nantwich Lodge. Additionally, giraffes, various antelopes, wildebeest, hippos, zebras, aardvarks, sable, and hyenas can be seen. Overall, the diverse animal life in Hwange ensures a spectacular safari experience.
The park is located on the eastern edge of the vast Kalahari sands and scrublands. Within its boundaries, the park boasts diverse habitats that range from teak forests and thornveld to mopane woodlands. Notably, there is a scarcity of natural water in the park, and as a result, the resident animals are primarily dependent on artificial waterholes.
If you’re in the early stages of planning your safari to Hwange National Park and are wondering about the best months to visit, We’ve created a guide to help you. Below, you’ll find our recommendations on the ideal months to experience Hwange, as well as a breakdown of the pros and cons of visiting during both the dry and wet seasons. This should aid you in deciding the most suitable time for your visit.
Dry Season (April to October)
POSITIVES:
- Malaria risk is at a minimum. This means you have a lower chance of contracting the disease during your visit.
- Generally cooler temperatures, except for October. This makes for a more comfortable safari experience.
- Minimal rainfall. You’re unlikely to have your plans disrupted by unexpected showers.
- Enhanced wildlife spotting opportunities. The thinner vegetation and animals’ reliance on permanent water sources make sightings more frequent and fulfilling.
NEGATIVES:
- The main camp can get crowded. This might reduce the sense of exclusivity during your safari.
- The park can be very dusty due to the dry conditions. This could be a concern for those with respiratory issues or those who simply don’t like dust.
- Chilly early morning game drives. If you’re on an open safari vehicle, be prepared with warm clothing, especially in the cooler months.
Wet Season (November to March)
POSITIVES:
- Baby Animals Everywhere: This period marks the birthing season, leading to an abundance of baby animals in the park, adding a unique charm to wildlife sightings.
- Bird Watchers’ Delight: Migratory birds make their way to the park during this time. With a plethora of species present, bird watchers are in for a treat.
- Less Crowded and Economical: Fewer tourists frequent the camps during the wet season. This means more exclusivity and better deals. Most camps and lodges offer lower rates, making it a budget-friendly option for many travelers.
- Vibrant Scenery: The park transforms into a green paradise. The lush landscapes not only make for picturesque views but also offer cooler and shaded pathways.
NEGATIVES:
- Challenging Road Conditions: Frequent rains can turn some of the park roads into muddy tracks, making them challenging to drive on or even completely impassable at times.
- The Scorching Sun: The wet season comes with very high temperatures, especially during mid-day. It’s essential to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
- Limited Accommodation Options: Some camps and lodges shut down between January to March, which can restrict accommodation choices.
- Spotting Wildlife Gets Trickier: The dense vegetation and widespread availability of water mean animals are less reliant on specific water sources. This dispersal makes wildlife spotting a bit more challenging compared to the dry season.
Arrival in Zimbabwe
The journeybegins with your arrival at Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) located near the town of the same name. Though there are no direct scheduled flights to Hwange, most visitors usually start their journey from here.
By Road
The Main Camp of Hwange National Park is a mere 200km (or 124 miles) away from Victoria Falls. The tarred road connecting these two popular destinations is in good condition, making the journey smooth and comfortable. You can expect the drive to take less than 3 hours under normal conditions, though it’s always wise to factor in the possibility of unforeseen delays. Some of the other camps within Hwange might present a challenge, especially during the wet months which span from May to October. Camps that are deeper in the park will require a 4×4 vehicle
By Air
Though there aren’t scheduled flights directly to Hwange, there are private airstrips which can accommodate chartered flights. This is a quicker (and more scenic) alternative to road transport, especially for those short on time.