Hwange National Park Safari Tours
The formidable representation of the elephant might serve as the official emblem of Hwange National Park. As the habitat of one of Africa’s greatest elephant herds, it is unsurprising that it has an area of 14,600 km², making it the largest and oldest national park in Zimbabwe.
Hwange is undoubtedly one of Africa’s premier game-viewing sites. This large park and its fauna can be traversed on foot, horseback, or via a game drive. Hwange’s remarkable array of wildlife—including lion, leopard, rhino, giraffe, buffalo, zebra, gemsbok, hyena, and wild dog—is paralleled by the park’s environmental diversity: the southern region, characterized by sandy terrain, adjoins the Kalahari Desert and features semi-arid shrubbery, whereas the northern grasslands are abundant with granite outcrops and clusters of teak and mopane trees.
Situated adjacent to the primary thoroughfare between Victoria Falls and Bulawayo, Hwange can be effortlessly integrated into a visit to “the smoke that thunders.” Hwange is located approximately an hour’s drive from Victoria Falls and is accessible via an airport for charter aircraft. Hwange is optimally visited during the winter months, from June to August, when game viewing is enhanced due to the presence of wetter waterholes and reduced vegetation.
Hwange National Park Tours and Safaris
Hotels and Lodges in Hwange National Park
More Information About Hwange National Park
What is the best time to visit Zimbabwe?
Although Zimbabwe is regarded as a year-round destination, the best time for your safari holidays is contingent upon the experience you desire. The nation is likely most renowned for housing the magnificent Victoria Falls, the greatest sheet of flowing water globally and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Consequently, the majority of visitors will schedule their excursions during the period when the Falls are at peak flow, specifically between April and May, coinciding with the conclusion of the rainy season.
The arid winter season from May to October is typically regarded as best for wildlife observation. The climate is more temperate during this period, and the risk of malaria is reduced.
If you are traveling to Zimbabwe for white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, the best period for your visit is from August to December, when the water levels are down. Rest assured, our Travel Experts will suggest the best time to visit Zimbabwe based on your particular preferences and requirements.
What are the premier activities to engage in while in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe offers several sights and activities, although certain experiences warrant particular emphasis. Here are many of our preferred activities during your safari holidays in Zimbabwe.
Visit Victoria Falls: Traverse the verdant Victoria Falls National Park to appreciate the magnificent Falls from 16 distinct observation sites.
A walking safari in Mana Pools National Park offers a distinctive and immersive viewpoint of the wilderness and its wildlife.
Game drives in Hwange National Park: Hwange, the largest national park in Zimbabwe, is an ideal destination for safari enthusiasts, with substantial elephant populations, numerous lions, African wild dogs, and a diverse array of wildlife.
Experience sunrise and sunset excursions on the Zambezi, Africa’s fourth-longest river, featuring captivating vistas of dawn and dusk, as well as sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse avian species.
Zimbabwe safari in Lake Kariba: As the largest artificial reservoir globally by volume, Lake Kariba provides aquatic activities such as fishing, birdwatching, picturesque boat trips, and wildlife observation.
Discover the solitude of Gonarezhou National Park, known as “The Place of Elephants.” This national park offers thrilling wildlife encounters and boasts a distinctive conservation success narrative that has led to its present prominence.
Methods of Reaching Zimbabwe
Limited airlines operate direct flights to Zimbabwe. The majority of travelers fly to Johannesburg and thereafter connect to Harare, Victoria Falls, or Bulawayo on the same day. The majority of tourists arrive at Victoria Falls Airport (VFA), situated 18 km (11 km) south of Victoria Falls, and proceed by automobile or chartered aircraft.
Is a visa required to visit Zimbabwe?
Obtaining an eVisa ahead to arriving is advisable. This indicates a reduction in lineups and a minimization of time spent at airports.
Am I permitted to operate a vehicle in Zimbabwe?
When organizing a self-driving excursion in Zimbabwe, it is essential to consider certain traffic regulations. Vehicles operate on the left side of the road, with speed restrictions established at 40 kilometers per hour in national parks, 60 to 80 kilometers per hour in urban areas, and 120 kilometers per hour on unrestricted roads. An international driver’s license valid for 90 days is required. A national driver’s license will be approved provided it is in English.
The road quality in Zimbabwe is satisfactory and driving is safe; nevertheless, fuel shortages are prevalent nationwide, so ensure your tank is adequately filled at all times. Police roadblocks are common; nevertheless, they should not pose an inconvenience if you possess the appropriate documentation.
Traversing the border between Zimbabwe and its adjacent nations is quite straightforward. Border crossings operate continuously, and visas, when required, may be obtained upon arrival.
Is internet access available in Zimbabwe?
Most hotels and lodges provide Wi-Fi, and major towns are typically abundant with internet cafes. Prepaid USB internet can also be acquired through Econet and Telecel.
Cellphone reception is predominantly restricted to urban regions. Although most international service providers offer roaming services, acquiring a prepaid SIM card upon arriving in Zimbabwe may prove to be more cost-effective. Credit, or ‘airtime,’ is widely accessible across the nation.
Your hotel or lodge can mail a postcard for you if needed.
Practical Travel Recommendations
Before embarking on a journey to Zimbabwe, it is essential to acquire some knowledge. Here are few useful recommendations to consider:
– Civilians are prohibited from wearing camouflage clothing in Zimbabwe.
– When visiting Victoria Falls during the rainy season, ensure you take rain boots and a raincoat to avoid becoming drenched.
-Zimbabwe has not fully accepted homosexuality, and we request that homosexual couples adhere to the country’s norms by refraining from and minimizing public displays of affection.
Practical Medical and Health Recommendations
Prior to embarking on a journey, it is essential to see your physician and procure comprehensive travel and health insurance that encompasses all planned activities during your holiday in Zimbabwe. Here are some beneficial health recommendations to consider:
-Vaccination for malaria is advised; please visit your physician for the requisite prescriptions.
– Upon entering Zimbabwe after visiting a yellow fever endemic region, you must present a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Practical Currency and Exchange Recommendations
If you intend to travel to Zimbabwe, here are the essential financial considerations you should be aware of prior to your departure:
-The Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWD) was indefinitely halted in 2009. The acceptable currencies are USD and ZAR (South African Rand).
American Express, Diners Club, and Visa are extensively accepted in Zimbabwe, although MasterCard’s acceptance is more restricted.
– Foreign currency conversion is available at any bureaux de change, banks, or hotels in Zimbabwe.
Carry small denominations of currency, as change is sometimes unavailable.
Individuals aged 18 and older may import the following items into Zimbabwe without incurring customs duties: 5 liters of alcohol (including 2 liters of spirits) and things valued up to US$200
– The import and export of foreign currency are unrestricted, provided they are declared upon entrance.
– Zimbabwean banks typically operate from 08:00 to 15:00 on weekdays and from 08:00 to 11:30 on Saturdays.
– Zimbabwe is presently facing a scarcity of cash in US Dollars. ATM users may occasionally be unable to withdraw the desired number of US dollars. We highly recommend that guests carry small denominations US dollar cash for transactions where Visa or MasterCard are not accepted. Certain smaller shops, restaurants, and craft markets lack card payment facilities.