Hwange National Park
Zimbabwe's largest and most diverse national park — a hidden gem that rivals the Kruger in biodiversity but with a fraction of the visitors. Hwange's painted dog population is one of the healthiest in Africa, and its waterhole game viewing is legendary.
About Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's premier wildlife destination. Covering nearly 15,000 km², it's roughly half the size of Belgium and supports over 100 mammal species and 400 bird species. Originally the royal hunting grounds of the Ndebele king, it was proclaimed a game reserve in 1928.
Hwange's pump-fed waterholes are the secret to its extraordinary game viewing. During the dry season, these artificial waterholes — many maintained by conservation NGOs — become magnets for vast herds of elephant, buffalo, zebra, and giraffe. Lodges positioned near waterholes offer hide-based viewing where you can watch hundreds of elephants drink, bathe, and socialise from just metres away.
The park is also one of the best places in Africa to see African wild dogs. The Painted Dog Conservation project, based near Hwange, has helped stabilize the local population. Combined with healthy numbers of lion, leopard, cheetah, and hyena, Hwange delivers exceptional predator viewing at a fraction of the cost of its more famous neighbours.
Key Wildlife Species
Click a species to read our in-depth field guide
Best Time to Visit
Green months indicate peak safari season
Climate
Semi-arid. Hot dry season (Sep–Nov) is the best for waterhole game viewing. Cool dry (May–Aug) is pleasant. Wet season (Dec–Mar) brings summer storms.
Highlights
- Waterhole-based game viewing — elephants at arm's reach
- One of Africa's healthiest wild dog populations
- Exceptional value compared to neighbouring parks
- Painted Dog Conservation project visits
- Night drives and walking safaris
- Combine with Victoria Falls (2 hours)
Activities
- Waterhole game viewing
- Guided game drives
- Walking safaris
- Night drives
- Painted Dog Conservation visits
- Bird watching
- Photography hides
Getting There
Fly to Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) and drive 2 hours to Hwange Main Camp, or arrange a charter to one of Hwange's airstrips. Road from Bulawayo is 4 hours.
Where to Stay
Insider Tip
Choose a lodge with a productive waterhole — like The Hide or Somalisa. Sitting in silence as 300 elephants approach your lodge at sunset is one of Africa's most powerful wildlife experiences. The best waterholes are in the Ngamo and Linkwasha concessions.
Safari Packages Including Hwange
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Hwange Safari
Let our experts craft a bespoke itinerary featuring Hwange National Park and the best experiences Zimbabwe has to offer.