Hwange National Park

The Land of Giants

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest and most famous wildlife reserve, a colossal wilderness that offers a truly epic safari experience. Situated in the northwest, near the edge of the Kalahari Desert, Hwange’s sheer size and varied landscape make it a sanctuary for a staggering diversity of wildlife. The park’s name is derived from a local Nhanzwa chief, and its legacy as a protected area dates back to the 1920s, a testament to its long-standing importance in African conservation.

SIZE

14,651 km² (Zimbabwe’s largest National Park)

ESTABLISHED

1961 (National Park)

OUR CAMP IN THE AREA:

MALINDI STATION CAMP

Wildlife Encounters

Hwange is most celebrated for its magnificent elephant population, one of the largest in the world. During the dry season, visitors can witness the spectacular sight of thousands of these majestic animals congregating around the park’s famous waterholes, creating a scene of unparalleled scale and power.

Beyond the “giants,” Hwange is a stronghold for predators and a crucial area for conservation. It is home to one of Africa’s largest surviving populations of the endangered African wild dog, also known as the painted wolf. Sightings of these highly social and athletic hunters are a major highlight for any safari-goer. The park also boasts healthy populations of lion, leopard, cheetah, and spotted hyena. In addition, you can spot rare and beautiful antelope species such as the sable and roan, as well as large herds of buffalo, zebra, and giraffe.

Scenery & Landscape

The park’s scenery is a fascinating blend of contrasts, reflecting its position at the crossroads of different ecological zones. The southern areas are dominated by the semi-arid Kalahari sandveld, with its wide, open vistas and acacia woodlands. As you move north, the landscape shifts to a more rugged terrain of mopane and teak forests.

Hwange’s unique ecosystem is supported by numerous watering holes, many of which are artificially pumped, particularly during the dry season. These life-giving pans, such as Nyamandhlovu and Ngweshla, become the focal points of the animal kingdom, offering spectacular and reliable game viewing opportunities as all manner of wildlife gathers to drink.

Activities & Experiences

A safari in Hwange National Park is designed to be immersive, offering a range of activities that cater to every type of adventurer.

Game Drives: Day and night game drives in custom safari vehicles are the primary way to explore the vast park, allowing you to cover great distances and search for a wide variety of animals.
Walking Safaris: Guided walking safaris with a professional guide offer a thrilling and intimate perspective on the bush, allowing you to track animals on foot and learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem.
Waterhole Hides: A truly special Hwange experience is spending time in a private hide overlooking a waterhole. This allows you to sit quietly for hours, watching the incredible parade of animals – from elephants to big cats – as they come to drink.
Bird Watching: With over 400 recorded bird species, Hwange is a birder’s paradise. Seasonal changes bring in migratory birds, making it a fantastic year-round destination for avid ornithologists.

WHY VISIT?

Hwange is just the beginning. Find out what other adventures await you in Zimbabwe.