National Parks

Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest national park, best known for its abundance of wildlife, including the iconic Big Five and endangered African wild dog.

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Everything you need to know about Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe is a spectacular wildlife reserve. It covers an immense 5,792 square miles, making it the largest national park in Zimbabwe. Hwange stretches over a variety of diverse landscapes, including pristine Kalahari sand-velds, dense forests, and undulating grasslands. Due to these diverse landscapes, the wildlife in Hwange is rich and varied. Most notable is the park’s elephant population, which is the second-largest in the world. With wildlife on offer all year round, it is hard to go wrong when visiting this extraordinary Zimbabwean destination.

Where is the park located?

Hwange National Park is located in the northwest of Zimbabwe. It is conveniently close to Victoria Falls – about 100km south – making it an ideal destination to do in conjunction with a visit to the iconic waterfall.

About the park

What type of wildlife will we see?

In Hwange, you will find a plethora of wildlife, from shy bat-eared foxes to large lion prides. The park is well-known for sightings of the Big Five – lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard. It is renowned for its abundant carnivore sightings, as the plains are thick with roaming herbivores.

The world’s second-largest population of elephants calls Hwange home because of the park’s abundant available water. Hwange also offers a home to one of the largest wild dog populations across Africa, a critical breeding ground for the endangered African wild dog.

There are over 400 species of bird that have been recorded here, making Hwange a dream destination for bird watching.

Top experiences to enjoy at Hwange National Park

Morning and evening game drives and guided walking safaris in private concessions throughout the park are undoubtedly the best way to experience the wildlife-rich Hwange National Park and its magnificent scenery.

Another highlight is an excursion to the Painted Dog Conservation Centre – an educational experience that sheds light on these rare animals and the strategies the organisation is using to save the species. The centre is also home to a rehabilitation centre, sanctuary and laboratory.

A visit to a local school or village, where you can gain insight into a unique culture and day-to-day life, is also a truly unforgettable experience.

When to visit Hwange National Park

June to October is prime game viewing months due to thinning vegetation and crowded water sources, attracting an abundance of prey and predators alike.

Between December and May, the rainy season allows for lush, green landscapes and many species give birth during this time, making for a dramatic safari experience. It is also when the migratory birds arrive making it an excellent time to visit if you’re an avid birdwatcher.