Hwange National Park - Discovering Zimbabwe

Travelling to Hwange National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Hwange National Park, a pretty good destination in Zimbabwe (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Hwange National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Hwange National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Zimbabwe, here's everything to know about Hwange National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Hwange National Park

Sure, Hwange National Park is the largest national park in Zimbabwe and one of the largest in Africa, covering an area of about 14,600 square kilometers. It was established in 1928 and is located in the northwest corner of the country, near the border with Botswana. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including a large population of elephants, as well as lions, leopards, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and many other species. There are also over 400 bird species in the park. Visitors can go on game drives, walking safaris, and bird-watching tours to explore the park and see the animals. Additionally, there are several lodges and campsites within the park for visitors to stay.

What to visit in Hwange National Park

Sure, here are the tourist attractions of Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe) along with some information about each: 1. Main Camp - This is the largest camp in the park which offers accommodation as well as a restaurant, shop, and petrol station. 2. Painted Dog Conservation Centre - This is a conservation center that focuses on painted dogs, also known as African wild dogs. Visitors can learn about the endangered species and even see them up close.
3. Deteema Dam - This is an artificial waterhole that is famous for its elephant sightings. Visitors can watch elephants drinking, playing, and taking mud baths.
4. Ngweshla Pan - This is another waterhole in the park that attracts a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
5. Kennedy vlei - This is a seasonal wetland area that attracts many bird species. Visitors can take a bird-watching tour and see species such as the black egret, white stork, and yellow-billed egret.
6. Sinamatella Camp - This is a remote camp located in the north of the park that offers self-catering accommodation and has fantastic views.
7. Nyamandhlovu Platform - This is a viewing platform that offers spectacular views of the park from a high vantage point. Visitors can see elephants, hyenas, and other wildlife from this spot.
8. Nehimba Lodge - This is a luxurious lodge located in a remote area of the park. It's known for its guided walks and night-time game drives.
9. Somalisa Camp - This is another luxurious camp located in the southern part of the park. It offers guided walks, game drives, and even horseback safaris! Overall, Hwange National Park offers a range of attractions that cater to all interests and expectations. Whether visitors are interested in bird watching, wildlife safaris, luxury accommodation, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the park, there is something for every kind of traveler.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Zimbabwe, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Hwange National Park.

When to go on holiday to Hwange National Park

The best time to visit Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe is from July to October, which is the dry season. During this period, the grass is shorter and animals are more visible when you go for a game drive. Also, water sources will be limited, so the wildlife will gather around water holes, making it easier to spot different species. However, keep in mind that it can get quite hot during this period, so make sure to bring appropriate clothing and stay hydrated.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Hwange National Park

To get to Hwange National Park, you can take a flight or drive from major cities in Zimbabwe such as Harare, Bulawayo, or Victoria Falls. Here are some options: 1. By air: There are daily flights from Harare and Victoria Falls to the Hwange National Park airstrip. Some of the airlines that operate these flights include Air Zimbabwe and Wilderness Air. From the airstrip, you can arrange for a transfer to your accommodation within the park.
2. By road: The park is accessible by car from major cities in Zimbabwe. From Harare, take the A4 towards Bulawayo and then follow the A8 towards Hwange. The journey usually takes around 7 hours. From Bulawayo, take the A6 towards Hwange, which takes about 4 hours.
Note that it is recommended to organize your transportation in advance, particularly if you plan on driving, as the roads in Zimbabwe can be challenging and it is important to take safety precautions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Hwange National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Hwange National Park

Here are some typical foods that you may find in Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe: 1. Sadza: A staple food made of finely ground maize, often served with a side of meat or vegetables.
2. Matemba: Dried sardines that are a popular snack and appetizer in Zimbabwe.
3. Madora: Large, black, edible caterpillars that are a delicacy in Zimbabwe. They are often fried or boiled and seasoned with salt and pepper.
4. Nyimo beans: A type of legume that is commonly eaten in Zimbabwe. They are often added to stews and soups.
5. Khapenta: A type of fermented bread that is made by allowing dough to ferment for several days before baking. It has a sour taste and can be eaten with a variety of dishes.
6. Nhopi: A dish made from mashed pumpkin or sweet potato that is often served with meat or vegetable stews.
7. Amacimbi: A type of edible mushroom that grows in Zimbabwe during the rainy season. It is often fried or sautéed and served with other dishes.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods that you may find in Hwange National Park. Zimbabwean cuisine is diverse and often incorporates a mix of African and European influences.
You can find general info about typical foods in Zimbabwe here.

Is Hwange National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Hwange National Park can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists due to several factors such as accommodation costs, safari activities, and transportation. However, prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation and the season of the year. It is recommended to research and compare prices from different tour operators and lodges to find the best deals. It's also important to keep in mind that conservation fees and park fees are required to enter the park, adding to the overall cost of the trip.

Where to find accomodation in Hwange National Park

The most convenient areas to find accommodation when visiting Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe are: 1. Hwange Main Camp: This is the primary entrance to the park and offers a variety of lodging options, including self-catering chalets, lodges, and campsites.
2. Victoria Falls: Although it's about a 2 hour drive from Hwange National Park, Victoria Falls offers a wide range of accommodations and attractions, making it a popular base for visitors.
3. Dete: Located about 30km from the park's entrance, Dete offers a few lodging options, including budget-friendly options like campsites and backpackers.
4. Painted Dog Conservation Center: This conservation center is located near the park's entrance and has a few accommodations available, including safari tents and chalets.
5. Sinamatella Camp: Located in the northwestern section of the park, Sinamatella Camp offers self-catering chalets and campsites, as well as great wildlife viewing opportunities.
You can check hotel prices at Hwange National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Hwange National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Hwange National Park is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other destination, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. It is recommended to travel with a reputable tour operator or guide, follow park rules and guidelines, and avoid walking in the wilderness alone, especially at night. Also, it's best to stay updated on the current security situation before planning your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Zimbabwe here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Hwange National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Hwange National Park the most?

Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe offers a wide variety of activities and wildlife experiences suitable for all types of travelers. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy taking guided walking safaris, sunset drives, and enjoying the beautiful scenery of the African savannah. Young people seeking adventure can take part in game drives, birdwatching, and visit the local communities for cultural exchanges.
Families with children will love the wildlife sightings and the educational experiences offered at the conservation centers within the park.
Overall, Hwange National Park offers a perfect balance of adventure, education, and relaxation that is suitable for all kinds of travelers.

How to get around Hwange National Park

The best way to move around Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe is by using a safari vehicle, which is a specially designed 4x4 vehicle that can handle the park's rough terrain and provide an excellent view of the wildlife. These vehicles are operated by guided tours or safari companies that are licensed to conduct tours within the park. Alternatively, you can also hire a private vehicle or take one of the park's shuttle buses to move around the park. However, self-driving is not recommended as the park's wilderness areas are vast and remote, and it is easy to get lost without a knowledgeable guide.

What to see around Hwange National Park

Sure, here are some interesting places that you can visit on a day trip from Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe: 1. Victoria Falls - Grand Canyon of Africa and the world's largest waterfall 2. Cawston Wildlife Estate - a wildlife sanctuary which offers game drives and walking safaris 3. Matobo National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site with distinctive granite formations and cave paintings 4. Hwange town - a great place to experience the local culture and visit markets and shops 5. Kazuma Pan National Park - known for its wildlife and bird watching opportunities 6. Sinamatella Camp - located on the edge of the Zambezi Escarpment and offers breathtaking views of Hwange National Park and the surrounding landscape These are just a few suggestions. There are many other interesting places that you can explore on a day trip from Hwange National Park, depending on your interests and preferences.
For every travel information about Zimbabwe you can click here.

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