Hwange the largest of Zimbabwe National Parks, covers an area of more than 14, 000 sq km, the size of Wales in the United Kingdom. It was declared a Game Reserve in 1928 and through a careful management system over the years; the small wildlife nucleus has grown into large herds that now roam the game park. The National Park is estimated to have more than 40, 000 elephants most visitors to the park always enjoy to watch. Hwange is also home to a wide range of other species, one of the most rare being the wild dog (or painted hunting dog) that through the efforts of a dedicated team of experts are once again breeding and growing in big numbers.
The magnificent sable antelope, zebra, eland, kudu and water buck, the bad tempered buffalo, and the tall gracious giraffe are just a few of the animals which are commonly seen on game-viewing drives. Dawn and dusk game drives and observation platforms beside watering holes provide unforgettable scenes of the natural world in its wild state. Lions on night patrol are a common sight around the luxury hotels and safari lodges on the National Parks perimeter.
Anytime is the right time to visit Hwange. Early in the year after the rain season the vegetation is green and lush. Colorful wild flowers carpet the ground and the newly born animals cavort with their parents. It is also the same time that migratory birds start their long flights home. Later on in the year, when water is sparse the animals converge at water points providing excellent photographic opportunities.
There is a good selection of accommodation for visitors, from basic self-catering National Parks Chalets to the more luxurious hotel and safari lodges. Visitors can choose to sleep in a sophisticated tree house, in a large airy tent and under thatch or ethnically designed safari lodges, some with game viewing hides and platforms, most with swimming pools. The visitors to Zimbabwe should always expect a high standard of comfort and warm hospitality.
Safari lodges we recommend in Hwange.
Davison’s Camp
The Hide
Little Makalolo Camp
Makalolo Plains Camp