Hwange National Park

The largest national park in Zimbabwe covering a total area of 14 500 km², and that 14 500 km² of some of the most pristine wildlife sanctuary in Southern Africa. Home to a large selection of mammals, birdlife, reptiles, and that includes an impressive 40 000 strong population of elephants.

Formally known as 'Wankie National Park', it was founded in 1928 and has ever since been one of Africa's best known and famed National Parks, and for a good reason, the wildlife experiences within the park are nothing short of spectacular, as are those sunsets.

Hwange National Park Facts

Size: 14 500 square kilometres
Location: Western Zimbabwe
When to visit the park: Year-round
Altitude: In the region of 1050 metres above sea level
Accommodation: Lodges In Hwange

Where is Park Hwange National Park located?

Hwange is located in the western region of Zimbabwe on the border with Botswana.

The park is a mere two-hour drive or a 30-minute flight south from Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls and 280 kilometres or a three-hour drive north from Bulawayo and the Motobo National Park.

Click here for a map view of the national park (we have used HERE maps as Google Maps has made a mess of the Hwange area); HERE WeGo Maps - Hwange National Park

Best Time to Visit Hwange National Park?

Hwange National Park is a year-round safari destination with wildlife sightings being easier in winter and birdlife being best in summer.

The winter months, July to October (the dry season), are best for wildlife sightings as the park is dry, and that forces the wildlife to visit the waterholes dotted throughout the park.

The summer months, December to March (the wet season), see's wildlife heading deeper into the bushveld, making it harder for the guides to find them when out on game drives.

Birdlife is good in the dry season but becomes spectacular when the rains start falling, and the migrant species start to arrive.

At Uyaphi.com, we do not have a preferred season to visit; we find that no matter the time of year, Hwange offers something completely different every time. Wildlife sightings are always good, as is the birdlife, game drives are amazing, as is the scenery, sunsets and surrounding bushveld. If you had to push us for an answer, we would probably say the spring, autumn or summer, as the winter mornings can get really cold.

Information On Hwange National Park

Hwange is home to over 100 mammal species, including over 40 000 elephants and almost 400 species of birdlife. Wildlife highlights include; lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, wild dog, sable antelope, to mention only but a few.

Days are spent on safari activities, for example, game drives and short walking safari excursions; stopping off at hides and waterholes is a highlight, especially for those who love photography.

There is a good selection of safaris lodges and camps both within the National Park and just outside park boundaries in private reserves. The more expensive accommodation options are in private concessions within the park; only guests staying at these lodges get access to the area.

Main Attractions Of Hwange National Park

Wildlife
Birdlife
photography hides
Waterholes
Sunsets
Game drives
40 000 elephants
Lions and leopards
Wild dogs if you are lucky enough

Zambezi Expeditions Camp

Zambezi Expeditions Camp is a fantastic option for exploring the magnificent Mana Pools. This semi-mobile camp is designed for those who want to escape the modern world and fully immerse themselves in the wild heart of the famed national park.

Its unique, adaptable setup fosters an intimate wilderness connection. Guests can disconnect from digital distractions, embracing nature's rhythm. Every moment offers raw, unfiltered engagement with an iconic African national park.
Zambezi Expeditions Camp
Singita Pamushana Lodge

Set in the private Malilangwe Reserve, Singita Pamushana offers its guests, without a doubt, some of the most unparalleled game viewing in Southern Africa. While the famed ‘Big 5’ are all present, the sheer diversity of the birdlife is exceptional.

Beyond the magnificent wildlife, the lodge itself is captivating, with breathtaking 180° views over the surrounding bushveld. Singita Pamushana is, without question, one of the absolute finest lodges that Africa has to offer.
Singita Pamushana Lodge
Bumbusi Wilderness Camp

Nestled in the heart of Hwange National Park, Bumbusi Wilderness Camp offers an enchanting retreat, inviting guests to reconnect with nature in an idyllic setting. This spectacular safari lodge seamlessly blends into the stunning landscape, offering an authentic experience amidst nature's beauty.

With its meticulously crafted stone and thatch chalets, Bumbusi serves as an inviting sanctuary where comfort meets adventure. Guests are treated to a wealth of activities, from guided walking safaris to immersive wildlife experiences, ensuring that each moment at the camp is nothing short of unforgettable.
Bumbusi Wilderness Camp
The Wallow Lodge

Embark on an unforgettable journey at The Wallow Lodge, where luxury meets the wild beauty of Victoria Falls. This exquisite safari lodge is designed for those who seek both adventure and relaxation, offering an intimate connection with nature in a breathtaking setting.

With its elegantly appointed tented suites and stunning views of the Masuwe River, The Wallow Lodge provides a unique blend of comfort and wilderness, ensuring that every moment spent here is unforgettable.
The Wallow Lodge
Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge

Perched high on dramatic cliffs overlooking the meandering Save River, Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge offers an unparalleled gateway to the breathtaking Gonarezhou National Park. This is, without a doubt, one of Zimbabwe’s finest wilderness retreats, combining luxurious comfort with the raw beauty of the wild.

Gonarezhou, or "big game country," is Africa at its most untamed. Here, you'll find iconic wildlife: elephants, buffalo, elusive cats, and rhinos roaming free. If you're lucky, you might even spot rare African wild dogs—a safari highlight.
Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge
Nehimba Lodge

Nehimba Lodge, spectacularly nestled within its own private safari concession inside Hwange National Park, is, without a doubt, one of the best places to witness truly exceptional wildlife and birdlife sightings throughout the entire year. The sheer abundance and diversity found here are unparalleled, making every moment an incredible experience.

Evenings at the Nehimba are, without a doubt, spectacularly entertaining. You can experience incredibly close encounters with Hwange's famed elephants right at the waterhole—a truly unforgettable sight if one is fortunate enough to witness it.
Nehimba Lodge