Hwange National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and local culture of Hwange National Park. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit destinations, hiking/biking routes, and safety tips.


Introduction to Hwange National Park

Located in Matabeleland, Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park is the largest game reserve in the country, covering over 14,600 square kilometers. The park is named after a local Nhanzwa chief and offers a remarkable African wildlife experience, with over 100 mammal and 400 bird species.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Hwange National Park has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ve compiled a list of must-visit destinations, hiking/biking routes, safety tips, and insider recommendations to make the most out of your trip to Hwange National Park.

List of Places to Visit in Hwange National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums, and Historical Places

  • Nehimba Seeps: These natural springs, located in the park’s northwestern region, were used by early San communities for water and spiritual purposes. Visitors can see the rock painting and engravings that date back over 4,000 years.

  • Sinamatella Camp: This campsite was once an ancient trading post between the Portuguese and Arab traders in the 16th century. Visitors can explore the remnants of this historical site and view the surrounding plains and valleys.

  • Hwange Colliery: Tourists can visit the Hwange Coal Mine, which was established in 1899, and learn about the history of the area’s mining industry, including the workers’ living conditions and the mine’s impact on local communities.

Natural Attractions of Hwange National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Elephant Hide: A must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts, this wooden hide allows visitors a close-up viewing of elephants and other wildlife as they drink from the waterhole.

  • Deteema Dam: This man-made dam is a popular site to watch hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife from a safe distance. Visitors can take a boat ride, enjoy a picnic or watch the sunset from one of the viewing decks.

  • Ngamo Plains: The open savannah fields of Ngamo Plains offer visitors a chance to view large herds of herbivores, including zebras, buffalos, and wildebeests, as well as predators, such as cheetahs and lions.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hwange National Park

  • Main Camp Nature Trail: A three-kilometer trail that winds through the park’s main camp area and offers an opportunity for birdwatching and spotting small mammals.

  • Masuma Dam and Ridge Walk: A scenic walk that provides a panoramic view of Masuma Dam and the surrounding plains. Visitors can witness birdlife, elephants, and other big game along the way.

  • Linkwasha Concession Walk: A guided walk takes visitors through the concession’s diverse habitats, including wilderness areas, woodlands, and plains, to spot a variety of wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Hwange National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Game Drives: The park offers morning, afternoon, and evening game drives to explore the park’s diverse range of wildlife, including giraffes, lions, and elephants.

  • Birdwatching: Hwange National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Visitors can spot over 400 bird species, including the African hoopoe, blue waxbill, and the lilac-breasted roller.

  • Guided Walking Safaris: Guided walking safaris offer a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience. Visitors can explore the park on foot while learning about the local flora and fauna.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hwange National Park

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive at Hwange and check into your accommodation. Go on an evening game drive.
Day 2 Start the day with a morning game drive followed by a bush breakfast. In the afternoon, relax at the camp or take an optional guided walking safari.
Day 3 Spend the morning at Deteema Dam, enjoying boat safaris or fishing. Return to camp in the afternoon for an evening game drive.
Day 4 Take a full day game drive to explore the park’s different regions and ecosystems.
Day 5 Visit Nehimba Seeps and Sinamatella Camp to learn about the cultural history of the park. Take a guided walking safari in the afternoon.
Day 6 Go on a birdwatching expedition at Ngamo Plains or enjoy a horseback safari. In the evening, relax at the campfire while listening to the sounds of the park.
Day 7 Depart from Hwange National Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Hwange National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sauce Bunny: A local favorite, this game meat stew is served in most restaurants in Hwange.

  • Sadza: A staple food in Zimbabwe, made from ground maize flour and served with meat dishes.

  • Matemba: Dried bream fish, seasoned with salt, and served with a side of cooked vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Mazoe Orange Crush: A popular soft drink in Zimbabwe made from fresh oranges.

  • Chibuku: A traditional African beer made from fermented maize or sorghum.

  • Amarula: A sweet liqueur made from the fruit of the African marula tree.

Where to Stay in Hwange National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Elephant’s Eye: A tented lodge located near the park’s entrance. The lodge offers guided hikes, game drives, and night safaris.

  • Hwange Safari Lodge: A luxury lodge situated near the park entrance. The lodge provides guided tours, swimming pools, and an outdoor fireplace.

  • Main Camp: The park’s main camp offers affordable accommodation options, including lodges, chalets, and campsites.

What to Buy in Hwange National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts and Carvings: Visit the park’s curio shops to buy handmade crafts and carvings made by local artisans.

  • Safari Clothing: The park’s curio shops offer a range of safari clothing, including hats, t-shirts, and jackets.

  • African Artwork and Paintings: Art collectors can find a range of artwork and paintings made by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Hwange National Park

  • Greeting Customs: The locals in Hwange often greet visitors with a handshake or a nod. It’s proper etiquette to return the greeting when meeting locals.

  • Tipping: It’s customary to tip in restaurants, lodges, and hotels in Hwange. A tip of 10% is appropriate for good service.

  • Conservation and Wildlife Ethics: Hwange National Park has strict conservation rules and wildlife ethics. Visitors must follow the park’s regulations to ensure the safety and longevity of its flora and fauna.

Best Time to Visit Hwange National Park

The best time to visit Hwange National Park is between July and October when the wildlife congregates around the water sources to drink. During this time, visibility is good, and visitors will have a better chance to spot big game.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hwange National Park

Do:

  • Respect Wildlife: Do not approach or provoke wild animals, and keep a safe distance at all times.

  • Follow Park Regulations: Visitors must follow the park’s regulations and ethical guidelines for wildlife welfare and conservation.

  • Stay Safe: Do not wander off or explore the park without a professional guide or armed ranger.

Don’t:

  • Litter: The park’s regulations prohibit littering, so visitors must dispose of their rubbish properly.

  • Feed Wildlife: Feeding wild animals is strictly prohibited, and visitors can face severe repercussions.

  • Disturb Nature: Visitors must not remove or disturb the park’s flora or fauna, including rocks, plants or animals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hwange National Park

  • Guided Safaris: Visitors must take a guided safari to increase safety while exploring the park.

  • Camp Security: Visitors must secure all camping equipment and valuables to prevent theft.

  • Snake Safety: Be careful when walking or hiking as poisonous snakes can be present.

Health in Hwange National Park

  • Malaria: Hwange National Park is in a malaria zone, and visitors must take precautions, including using mosquito repellent and wearing long-sleeve clothing in the evenings.

  • Water Quality: Visitors must drink bottled or purified water to avoid water-borne diseases.

Getting to Hwange National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hwange National Park

  • Victoria Falls International Airport: The most convenient airport for international visitors, located approximately 3 hours by road from Hwange National Park.

  • Bulawayo Airport: A domestic airport located approximately 250 kilometers from Hwange National Park.

Bus Stations Near Hwange National Park

  • Bulawayo: Buses from Bulawayo travel daily to Hwange National Park.

  • Victoria Falls: Buses from Victoria Falls travel daily to Hwange National Park.

Other Options

  • Car Hire: Visitors can hire a car from Harare, Victoria Falls, or Bulawayo to drive to Hwange National Park.

  • Private Transfers: Visitors can arrange private transfers from airports or major cities to Hwange National Park.

How to Get Around in Hwange National Park

Visitors can explore Hwange National Park with guided safaris or by hiring a car and driving themselves. Visitors must follow park regulations and traffic rules while driving in the park.

Where to Go Next from Hwange National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Victoria Falls: One of the largest waterfalls in the world, located approximately 200 kilometers from Hwange National Park.

  • Matobo Hills: A UNESCO World Heritage Site situated approximately 200 kilometers from Hwange National Park, known for its unique rock formations and prehistoric rock paintings.

Conclusion

Hwange National Park offers visitors an unforgettable African wildlife experience. From stunning natural attractions to cultural landmarks and outdoor adventures, there’s always something to do and see in this vast game reserve. Plan your trip with our comprehensive tour guide, including must-visit destinations, hiking/biking routes, and insider recommendations. Follow park regulations and ethical guidelines and have a safe and incredible adventure in Hwange National Park.

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