Hwange National Park

Where the Kalahari sands meet the moist savannah woodland, Hwange houses an impressive array of wildlife

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Area: Hwange National Park

Echoes of an Ageless Wilderness

Hwange National Park is a crucial sanctuary for over 40,000 elephants, a scene most breathtaking around waterholes during the parched dry season. The park serves as an key location for viewing the sable antelope, with herds often amassing up to 30 or 40 in strength. Spanning roughly 1.5 million hectares bordering Botswana, Hwange showcases a spectrum of habitats, from mopane woodland and open grasslands to Kalahari scrub bush and dense teak forests. Such diverse landscapes support more than 50 mammal species.

Hwange’s geographical location, bridging the Kalahari sands and the eastern moist savannah, places it within the vast expanse of the Zambezi Basin. This basin is a component of the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, an expansive protected territory dwarfing many countries in its sheer size.

Hwange National Park

Hwange’s reputation for its man-made waterholes, facilitated by Friends of Hwange, cements its place in safari lore. The park’s lack of permanent surface water necessitates these 60 strategically positioned waterholes, replenished by borehole pumps. They not only quench the animals’ thirst but also offer exceptional wildlife viewing.

Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe is characterized by its low density of safari camps and lodges. This limited number of accommodations ensures an exclusive and private experience for visitors. The camps within and just outside the park are designed to offer upscale, inclusive lodging with a focus on luxury and comfort. These camps are strategically spread out across the park, maintaining a sense of seclusion and privacy. This layout not only enhances the visitor experience by providing a high degree of privacy for wildlife viewing but also helps preserve the natural environment and minimize the impact on the local wildlife.

This approach aligns with the park’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism, ensuring that the natural beauty and ecological integrity of Hwange are maintained for future generations. The careful management of lodge and camp density in Hwange reflects a balance between providing a memorable safari experience and protecting the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Accommodation in Hwange National Park

In Hwange National Park, accommodations strike a thoughtful balance. Simple bush camps provide essential amenities for a close-to-nature experience, while upscale lodges offer refined comforts. Consistent with Zimbabwe’s safari ethos, the focus is on the quality of the wildlife and environmental interaction, avoiding excessive opulence. Local materials and craftsmanship are commonly employed, supporting a meaningful engagement with the region’s ecology.

Best Time To Visit: Hwange National Park

The optimal time to visit Hwange National Park depends on your interests. For exceptional wildlife observation, the dry season from July to October is most advantageous. Waterholes serve as crucial hubs for animal gatherings, and diminished foliage increases visibility. If birdwatching captivates you, the summer months of November to April attract a variety of migratory birds, offering a different yet equally engaging experience.

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Activities

Hwange offers immersive experiences, including game drives which navigate through diverse terrains, bringing visitors up-close with wildlife. Walking safaris let guests tread the very ground these majestic animals roam, enriching their connection with the wild. Additionally, the adventurous can opt for fly camping, an unparalleled experience of spending nights under African skies.

Conservation Projects

Hwange’s conservation initiatives, like the Hwange Lion Research Project and the Painted Dog Conservation, work tirelessly to protect its rich biodiversity. They focus on research, anti-poaching efforts, and community engagement, ensuring the park’s longevity for future generations.

Connectivity and logistics

Reaching Hwange National Park is straightforward. Visitors commonly land at Victoria Falls Airport, followed by a road journey or a short charter flight to the park. The extensive network of lodges and camps ensures smooth logistical arrangements for travelers visiting the park.

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Our Approach

Remote, Exclusive, Seamless

At Fitzroy, we believe direct dialogue is essential in tailoring your travel experience. We favour engaging conversations over digital exchanges, ensuring your travel vision is clearly understood and promptly supported.

Our team is committed to a human-led process from start to finish, that goes beyond the online realm. Whether over the phone or in person, we work closely with you to develop a journey plan that is both thoughtfully considered and expertly executed. Please reach out to schedule a meeting or call and begin shaping your journey with us.