Hwange National Park

The country’s largest reserve

Hwange National Park is one of Africa’s finest haven for wildlife. Hwange NP, pronounced ‘Wang-ee’, is a world-class safari area with an incredible diversity and abundance of wildlife of southern Africa’s game species. An outstanding safari park with excellent opportunities to spot lion, zebra, giraffe, wild dog and tens of thousands of elephants. The famous elephant population is what really defines Hwange NP, being home to one of the world’s largest population of tuskers.

It is also an important breeding area for the African wild dog. The population of African wild dogs to be found in Hwange NP is thought to be of one of the larger surviving groups in Africa today. The park also offers an impressive variety of antelope including some unusual species such as sable antelope and large kudu. Other major predators include lion, leopard, spotted hyena and cheetah.

The location and timing

Hwange National Park is located in the west of the country and on the eastern border of the Kalahari area. Situated on the road between Bulawayo to Victoria Falls. Hwange NP can easily be combined with accommodation in Victoria Falls, Zambezi NP and Matobo NP but we prefer to overnight at least one night in the park. Luxurious lodges, safari camps and overnight stays on the viewing platform under the magical starry sky are all possible here in Hwange NP.

The best time for wildlife viewing is July to October when animals congregate around the 60 waterholes or pans and the forest is stripped of its greenery. These pans are the focal point for large congregations of animals and provide many outstanding opportunities for photography.

Walking safari

A Hwange safari doesn’t need to be limited to the open game drive vehicle. Visitors can also opt for guided walks with a personal ranger in order to experience the bush up close. Mana Pools NP, Matusadona NP and Hwange NP are ideal places to get out of your open game drive vehicle. This is very unique in safari land.