Hwange National Park
Safari & Wildlife
"Where Elephants Rule the Land"
About Hwange National Park
Zimbabwe's largest national park — and one of Africa's finest. Hwange is home to over 40,000 elephants and one of the continent's healthiest lion populations. It rivals the best safari destinations in Botswana and Kenya but remains beautifully uncrowded. Here, you'll experience raw, authentic wildlife encounters without the convoys of safari vehicles you'd find elsewhere.
July–October (dry season): peak wildlife viewing — animals concentrate at waterholes. November–April (green season): lush landscapes, baby animals, and excellent birdwatching — fewer crowds, lower prices.
Hwange is about 2 hours by road from Victoria Falls. Scheduled charter flights land at Hwange Main Camp airstrip (most lodges will arrange transfers). Coming from Harare, it's a scenic 6-hour drive or a 1-hour flight to the park.
Top Places to Stay
Handpicked accommodation for every traveller
The Hide Safari Camp
A classic tented camp inside the park with a legendary underground hide at a waterhole — get face-to-face with elephants at eye level.
$400–700/nightSomalisa Camp
Set in a private concession, Somalisa is known for its stunning pool that elephants frequently drink from. Pure magic.
$600–1,200/nightIvory Lodge
Comfortable, family-friendly lodge on the edge of the park with guided game drives and excellent value.
$150–300/nightThings to Do
Unmissable experiences in Hwange National Park
Game Drives
Morning and afternoon game drives with expert guides who know where the big cats are hiding. Expect elephants, lions, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, and if you're lucky, wild dogs.
Included with lodge stayWalking Safari
Explore the bush on foot with an armed professional guide — track wildlife, learn about spoor, and feel the pulse of the African wild.
$40–80Waterhole Hide
Sit silently in an underground or sunken hide at a waterhole and watch elephants, buffalo, and antelope drink just metres away.
Free (at select camps)Painted Dog Conservation Visit
Visit the Painted Dog Conservation centre near the park entrance to learn about Africa's most endangered predator.
$10–20Sample Itinerary
What your trip could look like
3-Day Classic Hwange Safari
Arrival & First Drive
- Fly or drive to Hwange — check into your lodge by midday
- Afternoon game drive — the golden hour is prime time for predators
- Sundowners in the bush as the sun sets over the teak woodlands
- Dinner under the stars at camp
Full Safari Immersion
- 5:30 AM wake-up — coffee & rusks, then morning game drive
- Spot lions on the hunt, elephants at waterholes, and birdlife galore
- Midday siesta at the lodge pool — elephants may join you for a drink
- Evening drive + night drive — look for leopards and hyenas
Walking Safari & Departure
- Guided walking safari — track fresh spoor with an armed guide
- Visit a local village or the Painted Dog Conservation centre
- Final lunch at the lodge before departure
Insider Tips
What the locals know
The dry season (July–October) is best for wildlife — animals concentrate around waterholes and visibility is excellent.
Hwange has over 400 bird species — bring binoculars even if you're not a birder; the lilac-breasted roller alone is worth it.
Many lodges have waterholes with underground hides. Ask about them — they're a unique Hwange experience you won't find elsewhere.
Combine Hwange with Victoria Falls — they're only a 2-hour drive apart, making it one of Africa's best safari-plus-wonder combos.
Ready to Explore More?
Zimbabwe has four incredible experiences waiting for you. See what else this beautiful country has to offer.
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