Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe Safari

One of Africa’s most renowned safari destinations, Hwange National Park is a sanctuary for incredible wildlife sightings and diverse landscapes. Also the largest game reserve in the country at 14,600 sq km/1,460,000 hectares, Hwange is a must-visit during a Zimbabwe safari for an authentic safari experience with luxury accommodation.

Must-Visit Areas in Hwange National Park

Hwange offers so many opportunities to see a diverse range of wildlife across mesmerising landscapes:

Ngweshla Pan: Popular Waterhole

The Ngweshla Pan waterhole is heavily frequented by game and so has become a popular stop on game drives during luxury Zimbabwe safaris. Especially during the dry season when other water sources have dried up, you’ll find a plethora of species in this area.

Sinamatella Area: Rich Biodiversity

The Sinamatella area is made up of hilly and rugged rocky environments interspersed with mopani woodlands and grasslands. This region offers great game viewing with high densities of animals, especially elephants and buffaloes. Sinamatella was declared an Intensive Protection Zone (IPZ) for the protection of rhinos.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Hwange National Park?

July to October, the dry season with little to no rain, is the best time of the year for a Zimbabwe wildlife safari. Vegetation is thinner, so sightings are better, and animals can be seen gathering around remaining waterholes. November to March is the wet season; the rain revives the vegetation and birdwatching is at its best with migratory birds in the park.

Animals Found in Hwange National Park

Hwange is famous for its massive breeding herds of elephants. Giraffes, hippos, wildebeests, and buffaloes are also common sightings. Hyenas and lions are well-established residents, too, and wild dogs can also be seen.

The park is home to almost 500 bird species, making it a fantastic destination for birding safaris in Zimbabwe. Fifty types of raptors have been found here. Other species to look out for include the kori bustard, southern ground hornbill, goliath heron, and crimson-breasted shrike.

How to Get to Hwange National Park

The park is about a three-hour road transfer from Victoria Falls, so you can land at Victoria Falls International Airport. From the airport, you can also take a charter flight to an airstrip in Hwange.