Zimbabwe Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park, previously called Wankie Game Sanctuary, is Zimbabwe's largest natural reserve, covering approximately 14,600 square kilometres. It lies northwest of the country, just off the main road connecting Bulawayo and Victoria Falls. The nearest town to the park is Dete. The park’s main entrance sits a 2 hour drive or a 30-minute flight south of Victoria Falls. The park, bearing the name of a local Nhanzwa leader, previously functioned as the royal hunting territory of the Ndebele warrior-ruler Mzilikazi before receiving safeguarded status as a National Park in 1929. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve, offers stunning safaris with elephants, lions, and diverse landscapes. Plan your adventure easily with a Zimbabwe eVisa for smooth entry and exploration!

A Journey Into Hwange’s History

In 1928, the Rhodesian government, encouraged by the enthusiasm of Legislative Assembly members like Major W. Boogie, designated the area as a reserve. It remained the final refuge for Zimbabwe's big game animals that were not threatened by human activity.

In September 1928, at the age of 22, Ted Davison, who was employed in Tsetse Fly control, was appointed as the First Warden. He accepted the position without hesitation. Over the next 33 years, he played a key role in shaping the reserve into a prominent national park. Originally known as Wankie Game Reserve, it was officially designated as a national park on 27 January 1950 and developed into a significant conservation and tourism destination.

Davison arrived to find the reserve in an untouched state, lacking roads or pathways. Only Bushmen hunting parties and occasional European visitors had ventured into the area. The park terrain is mostly flat and sandy, with hilly and stony features in the north. In the northern region, HG Robins, a recluse, built his home and installed an astronomical telescope on a tower. After his passing, he left his block of farms to Hwange National Park. Today, Robins Camp accommodates visitors near his original home and observation tower.

Why Hwange National Park Stands Out?

The park’s most striking physical features are its shallow pans and natural salt licks, rich in sodium and lime, which attract game animals from the neighboring Kalahari wilderness. These pans are considered one of Southern Africa’s natural wonders, typically measuring between 20 and 30 meters in diameter and holding up to one meter of water after the rains. Surprisingly, ants and other wildlife have played a key role in their formation. As ants build ant heaps, they bring salts like lime to the surface, drawing wild animals, particularly elephants, who crave these minerals.

The pans continue to expand due to the actions of wildlife:

• Wild animals, especially elephants, eat the ant heaps to obtain the salts.
• This feeding behavior creates hollows in the ground, which collect rainwater.
• The lime-rich soil attracts more animals, who further dig and consume it.
• As animals drink from the water-filled hollows, they disturb the soil.
• Mud sticks to their bodies and is carried away, gradually enlarging the pans.

Perfect Months to Visit the National Park

The best time to visit Hwange is during the dry season, from the months July to October, when large groups of wildlife—especially magnificent elephant herds—gather at waterholes to survive the intense heat and harsh conditions. In the rainy season, during the months of December to March, wildlife spreads out across the park, which makes sightings more challenging. The summer rains transform the landscape with lush vegetation, creating breathtaking scenery, and these conditions attract migratory birds from the Northern Hemisphere, offering exceptional bird-watching opportunities. Hwange National Park remains a fascinating destination throughout the year.

Dry Season Delights

• The dry season (July to October) draws large groups of wildlife, including magnificent elephant herds, to waterholes for survival under intense heat and harsh conditions.
• In the rainy season (December to March), wildlife spreads out across the park, which makes sightings more challenging.
• Summer rains transform the landscape with lush vegetation and create breathtaking scenery.
• These conditions attract migratory birds from the Northern Hemisphere, offering exceptional bird-watching opportunities.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers. It offers unmatched game viewing, a birdwatcher’s haven, and a secret wilderness escape for a peaceful retreat. With rich wildlife and timeless waterholes, every moment is exciting. Watching animals gather at waterholes makes every visit unforgettable. These top five reasons make Hwange National Park worth exploring.

1. Unmatched Game

Hwange National Park delivers an exceptional safari experience, known for its unmatched diversity and exclusivity. As one of Africa’s largest protected wildlife reserves, it is home to a variety of wild animals, including the renowned "Big Five"—elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos.

Hwange National Park hosts one of the largest elephant populations, with 40,000 to 50,000 often seen at waterholes in the dry season. This stunning sight showcases their power and beauty. Tourists can enjoy game drives and guided walks for a closer wildlife experience.

The best time to see wildlife is from June-October when animals gather around the last water sources. This season provides great chances for wildlife photography and close encounters. Whether on a budget safari or staying in a luxury lodge, the experience is equally magical.

Wildlife Tracking in Hwange:
Experience the thrill of wildlife tracking in Hwange National Park. A private safari tour lets you follow wild dogs, observe lions hunting, and explore the park’s vast savanna. With expert guides, every moment brings a new discovery in this untouched wilderness.
(Alt Text: A herd of elephants in African savanna.)

2. Birdwatcher’s Haven:

Hwange National Park is a haven for birdwatchers. With over 420 bird species recorded, it offers a birdwatching experience that matches the best in Africa. Every visit brings new sights and sounds, from soaring raptors to the melodic calls of grassland birds.

The best time for birdwatching is from November to February when migratory birds arrive from the northern hemisphere. During this period, the park’s salt pans turn into shallow lakes, drawing large numbers of birds and offering stunning views for photographers. Birdwatchers can spot various raptors, including the striking bateleur, along with many grassland birds thriving in this rich ecosystem.

Discover Birds on Bush Walks
Guided bush walks give visitors a close-up look at Hwange’s diverse ecosystem. These walks create great chances to spot birds and learn about the delicate balance of life in this remote park. Whether an experienced birder or a beginner, the birdwatching experience in Hwange is truly unforgettable.
(Alt Text: Three colorful birds perched on a branch.)

3. Secret Wilderness Escape

Hwange National Park’s remote setting provides a rare secluded wilderness experience. Located in a remote part of Zimbabwe, the park offers a peaceful escape that is difficult to find elsewhere. To enjoy this tranquillity, make sure to visit Hwange National Park.

Hwange’s remote location offers solitude and a deeper connection with nature. With fewer visitors, wildlife encounters feel personal, from watching elephants at a waterhole to hearing a lion’s distant roar at sunset.

Sustainable Safaris in Hwange:
Tour operators in Hwange carefully control visitor numbers, ensuring essential services are available while preserving the park’s natural wilderness. This balance between access and conservation makes Hwange a top safari destination, maintaining its wild and untouched beauty.

4. Rich Wildlife

Hwange National Park is rich in biodiversity, with a remarkable range of wildlife. It is home to over 100 mammal species, including the famous "Big Five" and nearly 500bird species, making it a top destination for wildlife lovers.

Hwange National Park supports a thriving population of about 700 African wild dogs, offering one of the best chances to observe these rare predators. The park also shelters various species unique to the dry Kalahari region, making it a top destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Hwange’s mix of semi-arid savannas and dense teak forests provides a home for many species. Seasonal rains improve wildlife viewing as animals gather at important man-made waterholes. With these diverse landscapes, every game drive or guided walk brings fresh and exciting sightings.

Hwange’s Elephant Spectacle
During the dry season, visitors to Hwange can see large gatherings of elephants as they depend on the park’s waterholes. These moments provide excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation, highlighting Hwange’s importance as a vital refuge for elephants and other animals in the region.

5. Timeless Waterholes

Hwange National Park’s waterholes are essential for its diverse wildlife. During the dry season, they become key gathering spots, as many species depend on these crucial water sources.

Hwange has over 60 man-made waterholes that play a vital role in supporting its wildlife. Maintained by friends of Hwange, these waterholes provide a steady water supply even in the driest seasons. Key spots like Mandavu and Masuma dams, along with the Nyamandhlovu waterholes, attract many animals and offer great opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Witness Nature in Action:

Watching wildlife at Hwange’s waterholes reveals the raw dynamics of the animal kingdom. Elephants gather to drink while predators wait nearby, creating a scene of constant activity and tension. For visitors, these waterholes offer a rare view into the complex world of wildlife survival.

Top 6 Wildlife to Spot in Hwange

Hwange National Park is home to some of Africa’s most famous animals. Visitors can see large elephant herds, powerful African lions, and rare African wild dogs. Giraffes move gracefully across the plains, while cheetahs and buffalos add to the park’s rich wildlife. Every game drive brings a chance to witness these amazing creatures in their natural surroundings.

1. African Elephants

Elephants have played a vital role in Hwange National Park’s history. In the 1970s, heavy poaching significantly reduced their numbers. In 1990, the Zimbabwean government banned elephant hunting and culling, leading to the creation of the Presidential Herd. With ongoing protection, Hwange now has one of the world’s largest elephant populations, with around 44,000 elephants. African elephants have high intelligence and a complex social structure. They live in matriarchal herds, guided by experienced and wise females. Hwange National Park is home to giant tuskers and bull elephants.

2. African Lions

Cecil’s pride is one of the most well-known lion prides in Zimbabwe, named after the male lion that was killed in a trophy hunt. Lions are among the top animals to see in Hwange National Park, as they are highly social and live in prides made up of related females, their cubs, and dominant males. The best time to observe them in action is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when they are most active.

Hwange National Park is home to a thriving population of around 700 African lions, making it one of the top destinations in Africa for lion sightings. The park’s vast savanna woodlands and grasslands provide the perfect habitat for these powerful predators, increasing the chances of spotting them in the wild.

3. African Wild Dogs

Wild dogs, often called painted dogs, are an endangered species that roam Hwange. With only about 6,600 remaining across Africa, spotting one is a rare experience. Hwange has the highest population of these wild dogs, making sightings more likely. They live and hunt in packs of 10 or more, preying on medium-sized antelopes like kudu.

Their distinct coat, with black, white, and tan patches, makes them easy to recognize and gives them the name "painted dogs." These wild dogs are exceptional hunters, relying on teamwork and coordination to take down their prey efficiently.

4. Giraffes

Giraffes are social animals and are among the top wildlife to see in Hwange National Park. They move in loose groups called towers and have a gentle nature, making them fascinating to watch as they interact with each other and their surroundings. Their long necks and sharp eyesight help them stay alert for predators. Spotting giraffes in Hwange is a special experience, especially during game drives or walking safaris.They have distinct coat patterns made up of irregular patches or spots separated by white lines. These patterns help them blend into savanna woodlands, open grasslands, and mopane forests.

5. Cheetahs:

Cheetahs are among the most exciting animals to see in Hwange National Park. They move alone and favor wide grasslands and savannahs, where their speed helps them catch prey. Their sharp vision and natural coloring allow them to get close before making a move. When exploring Hwange National Park, watch for cheetahs in open areas like the Ngoma Plains.

6. Buffalos

Hwange National Park has a large population of African buffalos, also known as Cape buffalos, making them one of the top animals to see in the park. These strong and powerful animals are part of the "Big Five" game species. They can grow up to 1.7 meters tall and weigh as much as 1,500 kilograms. Buffalos are highly protective, especially of their young, and are known as one of Africa’s most dangerous animals. Seeing buffaloes in Hwange National Park is a thrilling experience. They can be spotted during game drives or walking safaris.

Best Things to Do in Hwange

Hwange National Park offers a range of exciting activities for visitors. Safari game drives provide the best way to see wildlife up close, while walking safaris offer a chance to explore on foot. Night drives reveal the park’s nocturnal animals in action. Visiting the Painted Dog Conservation Centre provides a deeper understanding of the efforts to protect these endangered animals.. Waterhole observatories allow quiet wildlife viewing, and horse riding safaris offer a unique way to experience the park’s landscape.

1. Tourists on safari watching zebras and elephants:

Exploring Hwange National Park on a game drive is a must for any visitor. The park is open for drives from 6 am to 6 pm, offering a chance to see the Big Five moving freely across the landscape and surrounding concessions. Covering about 14,650 square kilometers, Hwange is home to more than 100 mammal species, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts. It also has one of the largest elephant herds in the world, making this experience a key highlight of any trip.

2. Walking Safari:

Some lodges offer a slower-paced experience with guided walking safaris, allowing visitors to explore the wild on foot. This is ideal for those who want to feel the savannah grass beneath their feet and immerse themselves in nature. The Hide, Bomani Tented Camp, Camelthorn Lodge, and Somalisa Camp provide walking safaris led by experienced guides.

3. Night Drives

If you think game drives in Hwange are magical, get ready for the park’s nighttime wildlife. This is the best time to spot big cats, from leopards moving silently to lions on the hunt, followed by spotted hyenas searching for leftovers. Night drives also reveal smaller creatures like the lesser bushbaby, mongoose, honey badger, and the rarely seen pangolin. Gliding through the darkness in search of these elusive animals makes for an unforgettable experience.

4. Wildlife Viewing at Waterholes:

Some lodges in Hwange have waterhole observatories where guests can relax and watch wildlife up close. These waterholes attract a variety of animals, making them perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Popular spots like Makwa, Nehimba Seeps, Ngweshla Pan, and Mandelandzovu Waterhole provide great opportunities to see elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, and antelopes, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when they are most active.

5. Horse Riding Safaris:

Experience the excitement of horse safaris in Hwange, where guided rides take you through the park alongside amazing wildlife. Hwange Horseback Safaris offers daily rides for visitors, along with exclusive multi-day safaris that journey from camp to camp within the park.

Fascinating Facts About Hwange

1. Sleep Under the Stars: Little Makalolo’s star bed, overlooking Madison Pan, allows visitors to experience the beauty of the night sky in the wild.
2. Ride the Elephant Express: This one-of-a-kind railway safari provides open views of wildlife, with window seats for all passengers and expert guides to point out animals.
3. Wildlife Conservation and Community Support: Lodges like Imvelo play a major role in protecting wildlife and improving local communities by creating jobs, funding education, providing clean water, and safeguarding crops, which helps reduce human-animal conflict and poaching.
4. Man-Made Waterholes for Wildlife: Since Hwange has no permanent water sources, 60 solar-powered waterholes ensure animals stay within the park, preventing conflicts with nearby villages.
5. Watch Wildlife from Hides: Several waterholes have raised wooden hides, offering visitors a quiet and safe place to observe animals as they gather to drink.
6. See the Rare Sable Antelope: Hwange is one of the best locations to spot the striking sable antelope in its natural habitat.

What To Bring?

• Binoculars, camera, hiking/walking shoes.
• First aid kit.
• Camping tents.
• Sleeping bag.

Conclusion

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife sanctuary, offering incredible safari experiences and diverse landscapes. Home to vast elephant herds and rare species, it provides unmatched game viewing year-round. Whether exploring on a game drive, tracking animals on foot, or observing wildlife at waterholes, visitors can enjoy an authentic and breathtaking encounter with nature. Conservation efforts help sustain this natural wonder, making Hwange a must-visit destination for adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of accommodation are available in Hwange?

Hwange offers a range of accommodation options, from campsites to luxury lodges.

Are there any conservation efforts in Hwange?

Yes, various organizations and lodges support conservation initiatives, including anti-poaching patrols, wildlife research, and community development projects.

Are there any unique experiences in Hwange?
Yes, you can sleep under the stars at Little Makalolo's star bed or take the Elephant Express railway safari.

Is Hwange a Good Place to Visit?
For those looking to experience wildlife up close, Hwange is an excellent choice. With 100 mammal species and 400 bird species, sightings are guaranteed. In just five days, we spotted a quarter of the bird species. Large herds of elephants, buffalo, and wildebeest, often numbering over 100, freely roam the park.

Content Disclaimer: Although this information was last updated in February 2025, it is best to check with relevant agencies, embassies, and airlines to confirm accuracy before finalizing your travel plans.