As though led by an invisible conductor, the dawn chorus gains strength as the birds of Hwange National Park welcome the sunrise with a song. Spanning an impressive 14,600 km² of untamed wilderness, Hwange (pronounced "wh-ungee") is Zimbabwe's largest (and oldest) national park and home to over 400 bird species. But it offers more than feathery creatures, with some unbelievable wildlife sightings, making this an underrated safari destination in Africa. Join me on a journey of all the reasons Hwange remains one of my favourite safari destinations...
Hwange National Park is a birder's paradise, Image Credit: Somalisa Camp
How Hwange National Park Stuns
Hwange is a Big 5 safari destination and one of the largest elephant sanctuaries in the world, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures in the wild. But beyond the Big 5, the resident predators include cheetahs, hyenas, and a large African wild dog population.
However, from my personal experience, it's not always the wildlife species you see on safari that stand out. Sometimes, it's the dew glistening on the bush, the sip of Amarula liqueur coffee as the sun takes its first peek over the horizon, and the way you're welcomed warmly back to the lodge after a game drive. Hwange National Park delivers this and then some. It's a place you feel in your bones rather than just visiting.
It's why our Travel Experts continually recommend it as a Zimbabwe safari destination for those guests who want to connect intimately with the wilderness.
Night game drives give you insight into nocturnal species, Image Credit: Wilderness
Hwange Highlights
As much as we love simply soaking in the natural surroundings, you want to ensure the safari destination you visit has enough to keep you entertained. And, boy, will Hwange bring its A-game.
With plenty of interesting and unique activities available in and around Hwange National Park, here are my top activities to get the most out of your African wildlife safari.
Game Drives
Each game drive offers a unique experience as your expert guide and tracker venture into the various landscapes that make up the national park, including the Kalahari desert, acacia woodlands, teak forests, and grasslands. It's incredible to discover how the different habitats attract particular types of wildlife, which depend on them for food and shelter.
Plus, did you know that you can take the whole family along, even the little ones? Some game lodges offer child-friendly programs to ensure everyone has a blast.
Game drives are always a treat at Hwange National Park, Image Credit: African Bush Camps
Walking Safari and Horseback Safari
Beyond the standard twice-daily game drives, Hwange National Park offers intimate walking and horseback safaris. Once again, you'll be led by experienced guides, but this time without the hum of the vehicle. Whether you choose your own two feet or the gentle gallop of a horse, you'll get a different look into what makes Hwange special.
This is by far my favourite way to experience the African bush. Stop to watch the tiny ant lion catch its prey, learn about the meaning of the animal spoor before stepping over it and breathe in the natural perfumes of various plants.
Walk among wildlife for a life-changing safari
Bird-Watching
Hwange is a twitcher's paradise, with numerous bird species to identify and observe. Even as a novice, I loved spending moments in the quiet, learning about the unique characteristics while trying to spot them through the binoculars. I enjoyed marvelling at the interplay between the birds as they worked together to build a nest or competed for the same prey.
Capture all the feathery action on camera, Image Credit: Dave Gale
Victoria Falls Day Trip
You simply cannot visit Zimbabwe without seeing Victoria Falls in person! With about an hour's drive between Hwange and Victoria Falls, you can easily combine your safari with a visit to the famous "Smoke that Thunders". Speak to our Travel Experts to arrange this outing with your lodge.
Visiting Victoria Falls is a must, seeing it from the sky is even better
Bumbusi National Monument
Take a step back into history by visiting the Bumbusi National Monument in Hwange National Park, where you can see the remains of colossal sandstone buildings from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
Learn more about the area's history, Image Credit: Bumbusi Wilderness Camp
My Favourite Places to Stay in Hwange National Park
There are many accommodations in Hwange National Park; however, these are a few of my tried-and-tested favourites.
1. Somalisa Camp
Beyond the beautifully furnished tents, I fell in love with Somalisa Camp's expansive deck, where I spent lazy afternoons reading, only to be interrupted by an inquisitive elephant or two.
Due to its prime position on the Kennedy Vlei floodplain, there's plenty to sit and stare at and many other wildlife vistors greeting you. It really feels immersive, with the surroundings being the hero instead of the camp itself. Although it's pretty spectacular in itself and eco-friendly too, with a fully solar power farm and water purity system that allows the camp to recycle 80% of its water used. These efforts have not gone unnoticed, as it has been awarded the first GOLD Green Tourism Certification in Zimbabwe.
Another favourite of mine is the copper bathtub and outdoor shower, as well as the star tent, where you can arrange for a sleepout under the stars.
Watch herds of elephant drink from a nearby waterhole while cooling off, Image Credit: Somalisa Camp
Highlights
- Their Elephant Pool was named after its gentle giants frequent visitors
- Intimate, accommodating a maximum of 14 guests at a time
- Sleepout experience can be arranged for an additional cost
Who's it for?
Eco-warriors and travellers are looking for a hideout to bond with their nearest family and friends. Please note that children over the age of 12 years old are welcome but walking safaris are only for those older than 16 years old.
Bath with a view, Image Credit: Somalisa Camp
2. The Hide Safari Camp
The Hide Safari Camp is located in a private concession in Hwange National Park. It has everything you could need or want on your African safari, including an underground tunnel leading to a hide overlooking a popular waterhole! Its reputation as the "Best Tented Safari Camp in Zimbabwe" means you can rest assured you're in good (no, the best) hands.
From sunrise to sunset, the little moments stand out at The Hide Safari Camp, with a team magically making everything happen behind the scenes. This setting is especially great for wildlife photographers as you'll get unique angles from its namesake hide.
But you don't even have to leave your tent to admire the wildlife, as elephants and other species are known to gather at the water hole the camp overlooks.
Spend a night at the Dove's Nest for a sleepout experience, Image Credit: The Hide
Highlights
- Underground deck-to-waterhole tunnel for excellent close-up game viewing
- Located on a private concession for a more exclusive experience
- Consistently awarded for its high standard in luxury safari accommodation and experiences
Who's it for?
It's perfect for budding or pro wildlife photographers, safari enthusiasts, and romantic getaways like a honeymoon (in particular, their Dove's Nest sleepout experience).
Get the best views of the wildlife from the camp's famous hide
3. Verney's Camp
I enjoyed the simplicity of this lodge, offering a very authentic safari experience without sacrificing quality and comfort. As it's located in a private concession, I loved being able to go out on night game drives to witness the nocturnal species.
The area is incredibly rich in wildlife, with migratory elephant, buffalo and antelope herds frequenting Verney's Pan, which in turn attracts predators, in particular a pack of African wild dogs and hers of lions. You can just imagine the action that ensues!
For families looking for an eco-friendly, immersive safari experience in a private concession, you can't go wrong with Verney's Camp.
Verney's Camp welcomes children of all ages, Image Credit: Machaba Safaris
Highlights
Who's it for?
Welcoming children of all ages, Verney's Camp is perfect for your next family holiday.
Soak up the sun and the views at Verney's Camp, Image Credit: Machaba Safaris
Ready to Experience Hwange National Park Yourself?
I cannot recommend a safari in Hwange National Park enough! Are you ready to embark on an adventure of your own? Whether it's a milestone celebration, family vacation, or you're just looking for an excuse to escape, Hwange is an excellent choice. And why stop there? Our Travel Experts will recommend other destinations you can add on to your dream African safari!
Contact our Travel Experts, and let's start planning your tailor-made African holiday!
