Why Visit Hwange National Park
The top experiences that make Hwange National Park worth the journey.
About Hwange National Park
Hwange is Zimbabwe's largest national park and one of Africa's great elephant refuges — hosting over 50,000 elephants alongside exceptional concentrations of African wild dogs, lion prides, and 100+ other mammal species. Despite its immense biodiversity and low visitor numbers, Hwange remains one of Africa's best-kept safari secrets, offering superb wildlife at a fraction of the cost of Botswana's adjacent parks.
Wildlife to look for: African Elephant, African Wild Dog, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Sable Antelope, Roan Antelope, Brown Hyena
Popular activities: Game Drive, Walking Safari, Horseback Safari, Hide/Waterhole Viewing, Night Drive, Community Visit
Established 1929, covering 14,651 km².
Plan Your Visit to Hwange National Park
Everything you need to know before booking your Hwange National Park safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
Best Time to Visit Hwange National Park
Peak season is Jul – Oct (peak dry season), when wildlife viewing is at its best. The top months to visit are July, August, September, October.
The peak dry season (July–October) is best, when Hwange's 60+ pumped waterholes draw the park's largest elephant herds and best predator action as all other water sources dry up.
What It Costs
Expect to budget $200–$900 per person per day, all-inclusive of accommodation, meals, and game activities. Park entrance fees run $20/day per person.
Hwange safaris typically run $200–$900 per person per day, with a $20/day park entrance fee — making it noticeably more affordable than neighboring Botswana while offering comparable elephant and wild dog sightings.
Getting There
Fly into Victoria Falls Airport (closest, 100 km from main camp area) or Hwange Airport (small strips inside the park). From Victoria Falls town, road transfers to Hwange take 2–2.5 hours. The standard itinerary is Victoria Falls (1–2 nights) + Hwange (3–4 nights) + optional Chobe connection via Kazungula.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hwange National Park
Is Hwange good for wild dogs?
Yes — Hwange is one of Africa's best parks for African wild dog. Multiple resident packs use the park's open areas and den annually. The Hwange-Chobe ecosystem is one of the last strongholds for this endangered species. Sightings are not guaranteed but Hwange offers some of the highest wild dog encounter rates of any park in Africa.
How many elephants are in Hwange?
Hwange hosts over 50,000 elephants during the dry season, making it one of Africa's largest elephant concentrations. The park pumps water at 60+ pan waterholes during dry months, drawing hundreds of elephants daily to each point. September–October sees the peak elephant aggregations when all other water sources are dry.
Is Zimbabwe safe for safari?
Yes — Zimbabwe's national parks and private concessions are safe for tourists. The main safari areas (Hwange, Victoria Falls, Mana Pools) are well-managed with experienced guides. Zimbabwe has emerged as one of Africa's best safari destinations for experienced travelers seeking outstanding wildlife without the crowds of Kenya or South Africa.
How does Hwange compare to Chobe (Botswana)?
Both parks offer exceptional elephants and wild dog. Hwange advantages: lower cost, less crowded, walking safaris and horseback allowed. Chobe advantages: boat safaris on the river, more infrastructure, easier fly-in logistics. Many visitors combine both — they share a border and a 4x4 road connects them through the Kazungula area.
How do I get to Hwange National Park?
Fly into Victoria Falls Airport (closest, 100 km from main camp area) or Hwange Airport (small strips inside the park). From Victoria Falls town, road transfers to Hwange take 2–2.5 hours. The standard itinerary is Victoria Falls (1–2 nights) + Hwange (3–4 nights) + optional Chobe connection via Kazungula.
Ready to Explore Hwange National Park?
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