Explore the Untamed Beauty of Hwange National Park
Discover the breathtaking wildlife and natural beauty of Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe's premier safari destination.
Hwange National Park, one of Zimbabwe's largest and most remarkable national parks, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Spanning over 14,600 square kilometers, this breathtaking park boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, making it a prime destination for eco-tourism. Visitors can expect to witness herds of elephants roaming freely, along with lions, leopards, and an array of antelope species, all set against the backdrop of the stunning African landscape. The park's varied habitats, from arid grasslands to lush woodlands, create unique ecosystems that support an impressive variety of wildlife. The park is not just about the animals; it offers a variety of activities for visitors, including guided safaris, bird watching, and self-drive tours, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the African wilderness. The dry season, from May to October, is particularly popular as animals congregate around waterholes, providing incredible opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. In addition, Hwange's remote location ensures a sense of tranquility and seclusion, making it an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For those looking to deepen their experience, several lodges and camps within the park provide comfortable accommodations that allow visitors to stay close to nature. As you explore this vast expanse, don’t forget to take time to appreciate the stunning sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and purple, providing a perfect end to your adventurous day in Hwange National Park.
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season for the best wildlife sightings near waterholes.
- Consider guided tours for in-depth knowledge about the park's ecosystems.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching; the park is home to over 400 bird species.
- Stay in park lodges for a closer connection to nature and wildlife.
A brief summary to Hwange National Park
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Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from any location in the Midlands region, head towards the A5 highway. From Gweru, take the A5 northbound towards Kwekwe. Once you reach Kwekwe, continue on the A5 until you reach the junction for the A2 highway. Take the A2 south towards Bulawayo. After approximately 90 kilometers, you will see signs directing you to Hwange National Park. Follow the signs and turn onto the Binga Road which will lead you directly to the park entrance. The total driving distance is roughly 350 kilometers and may take around 4-5 hours depending on road conditions. Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel, as petrol stations can be sparse along the way.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, start by taking a bus from Gweru to Bulawayo. Several bus companies operate this route, and the journey typically takes around 2-3 hours. Once you arrive in Bulawayo, head to the local bus terminal and catch a bus heading towards Hwange. Buses to Hwange usually depart several times throughout the day and take approximately 2-3 hours. Make sure to confirm with the bus company about the schedule and availability. Upon arrival in Hwange town, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a shuttle service to take you to the park entrance, which is about 15 kilometers from the town.
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Combination (Car and Public Transportation)
If you are in a smaller town within the Midlands region, consider using a combination of public transport and car hire. Take a local bus to Gweru or Kwekwe and then switch to a bus heading to Bulawayo as described above. From Bulawayo, you can either continue by bus to Hwange or rent a car for more flexibility. Car rental agencies are available in Bulawayo, and it's advisable to book in advance. Once you have a vehicle, follow the directions provided for driving from Bulawayo to Hwange National Park.
Attractions Nearby to Hwange National Park
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Little Makololo
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Inzila Mobile Safaris
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Jambili Picnic Site
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Makona National Park
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Hwange Safaris
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Ngweshla Pan
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tshakabika Self Catering Lodge
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Hwange Main Camp
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Camp Chitubu, Hwange National Park
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Waterhole, Hwange National Park
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Davison's Camp
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Gamba Pool
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Memorial Plaque
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Mpongola River Mini Falls
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Big Baobab Tree
Landmarks nearby to Hwange National Park
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Verney's Camp - Machaba Safaris
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NEHIMBA LODGE
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Camp Hwange
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Somalisa Expeditions
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Somalisa Camp
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Ngweshla Camp
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Somalisa Acacia Camp
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Gwango Heritage Resort
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Gwango Elephant Lodge
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Hwange Horseback Safaris
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The Hide Lodge
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Hwange Safari Lodge
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Deteema Springs - Machaba Safaris
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Hideaways Elephant's Eye Tented Camp
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Deteema Dam