Things To Do
in Hwange
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's premier wildlife sanctuary, spanning vast savanna and woodlands with abundant waterholes that draw diverse species. The park sits near the town of Hwange in Matabeleland North, serving as a crucial wildlife corridor and safari destination. It is famed for its elephant populations, but is home to numerous predators, antelope, and hundreds of bird species across seasons.
Visitors can expect intimate wildlife encounters, from open-air game drives to guided walking safaris and timeless savanna sunsets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a guided safari drive through Hwange National Park, where the morning light illuminates the stunning landscapes. Watch as elephants, buffalo, and various antelope species begin their day, providing ample opportunities for photography. The crisp air and sounds of nature awakening will invigorate your senses as you traverse the park's diverse habitats.
After a hearty lunch at a nearby lodge, embark on an afternoon game drive to explore different areas of the park. Keep an eye out for predators like lions and leopards, who are often more active as the temperatures cool. Your knowledgeable guide will share insights about the ecosystem and help you spot the more elusive wildlife.
As the sun sets, return to your lodge for a refreshing drink while enjoying the stunning views of the savannah. After dinner, gather around a campfire to share stories and listen to the sounds of the African night. This tranquil setting is perfect for stargazing, with the Milky Way shining brightly above.
Rise with the sun and prepare for an unforgettable birdwatching experience in Hwange, famous for its rich avifauna. Join a local ornithologist who will guide you through various habitats where you can spot both endemic and migratory birds. The morning chorus will delight you as you capture sightings of species like the African fish eagle and the vibrant Lilac-breasted roller.
After a picnic lunch in a scenic spot, continue your birdwatching adventure, moving to different waterholes where birds congregate. Observe their behaviors as they interact with their environment, and take time to appreciate the unique flora that supports this diverse wildlife. Your guide will help you identify various species and provide fascinating details about their habits.
As the day winds down, return to your lodge and reflect on your birdwatching successes over a delicious meal. After dinner, consider a night walk with a guide to listen for nocturnal birds and other wildlife sounds. The mysterious ambiance of the African night will leave you in awe of the vibrant ecosystem around you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Bottle water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $40-70 |
| 🚗Taxi or minibus within town | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich wildlife and vast savanna landscapes
- High-quality safari experiences in a relatively remote setting
- Accessible from Victoria Falls with good lodge infrastructure
- Limited nightlife and remote travel can be time-consuming
- Seasonal road conditions and malaria risk require preparation
- "Mhoro" - Hello
- "Ndatenda" - Thank you
- "Ndapota" - Please
- "Ndingakubatsirai here?" - Can you help me?
- "Zvakadini" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Hwange
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic overland viewpoint providing sweeping savanna panoramas and dramatic silhouettes at dawn or dusk.
Waterhole activity draws elephants and other wildlife, ideal for close-up photography from a vehicle or observation deck.
Flat plains with seasonal wildlife concentrations and birdlife at golden hour.
Food in Hwange
Hwange Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Zimbabwe's staple maize porridge served with stews such as beef, chicken, greens, or beans.
Must-Try!
Dried sardines fried with tomatoes and onions, served with sadza.
Dried caterpillars rehydrated and sautéed with vegetables, a traditional protein source.
Braai-style grilled meat—usually beef or goat—accompanied by sadza and salads.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market stalls offering fresh produce, roasted snacks, and artisanal crafts.
Casual vendors selling grilled meats, maize snacks, and fruit along the main streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a handshake or wave; show respect to elders and authority figures.
Ask for permission before photographing people, homes, or sacred spaces.
Dress modestly in villages and rural areas; lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended.
Carry small denominations for tips and purchases; avoid displaying large sums publicly.
Safety
Tipping in Hwange
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common for guides, drivers, trackers, lodge staff, and rangers. Typical amounts range from $5-15 per day for guides and trackers, with extra rewards for outstanding service.
Lodges commonly accept cash (USD), credit/debit cards, and mobile money such as EcoCash; carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Lush landscapes with dramatic skies; expect humidity, heavy but brief showers, and abundant birdlife; roads can be muddy.
Cooler days and crisp nights; wildlife concentrates around water sources; best for game viewing and photography; dusty in some areas.
Transition periods with changing weather patterns; wildlife viewing varies and road conditions can improve or worsen with the rain.
Hwange at Night
Hiking in Hwange
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Guided walking safaris on designated trails within the park offered by licensed operators.
Easy riverside hike near Dete town with birdwatching and savanna views.
Airports
How to reach Hwange by plane.
Major international gateway near Hwange; roughly 140-200 km by road; frequent connections to regional hubs.
Small airstrip serving private safaris in the Hwange area.
Regional airport north of Bulawayo with domestic and regional flights; longer transfer to Hwange.
Zimbabwe's main international hub; longer drive to Hwange but connected to many global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Shona-speaking with Ndebele and minority groups; miners and lodge workers form a significant part of the economy.
Visitors from around the world attracted by Hwange's wildlife and lodge experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal play across towns.
Played at schools and clubs in larger towns; less dominant than soccer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hwange.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on fresh vegetables, beans, maize-based dishes, and salads; request vegetable relishes and nsima or sadza to accompany meals.