Experiences in Hwange | Timbuktu Travel

Witness the huge elephant herds of Hwange

Explore Zimbabwe’s largest national park, Hwange, on a game drive through this beautiful wilderness. The park has one of the largest populations of elephant in Africa, and some patient waiting at the large pans and waterholes ensures an encounter with big herds of these pachyderms as they come down to drink, cool off and cavort. Enjoy your time with the greatest of our 'living dinosaurs' as your guide translates their trumpets! There are also over 100 species of mammals and nearly 400 species of birds ready to be found on your safari in Hwange.

Go on a guided walking safari in Hwange

As one of the oldest wildernesses in Africa, Hwange is certainly worth taking a closer look and that's exactly what you'll do on a walking safari. Hwange's diversity of landscapes - from the water-logged pans to wind-swept Kalahari sands, and the wildlife that roams between them is staggering. Your sure-footed guide will lead you on a journey of following tracks, listening for calls (and learning what they mean) and examining the tiniest details to learn their secrets. And you're bound to encounter the stars of Hwange, the elephant who march grandly across the plains and, sometimes, through camp! After refreshments and a spot of sky-gazing, you'll return to base.

Track Hwange's wildlife on a game drive

A sprawling 14,650 square kilometres in size, there is a lot of Hwange to explore, and you'll be able to cover the most ground in a luxury Land Cruiser. Joined by your safari guide, head out through the acacia-fringed grassy plains and teak forests in search of Hwange’s big game. The most famous of which are its tuskers, who roam the park and congregate at the water-logged pans. Game drives are the best way to see the variety of wildlife and scenery in the park and they almost always yield unexpected sightings - perhaps a leopard lounging in a tree, or even a pack of rare African painted dogs scampering through the grass. You'll break the journey with an iced drink and snacks, or treat yourself to a lunch in the bush!

Spot wildlife on a night game drive in Hwange

If you though game drives in the wilds of Hwange were magical enough, prepare yourself for the Hwange 'night act' featuring a whole new cast. After tea and hot drinks, you'll depart from camp with your guide, spotlight and camera at the ready. This is the ultimate time for spotting the big cats, from leopards prowling in stealth mode or lion on the hunt, followed by spotted hyena looking for leftovers. Of course, there is wildlife of the 'cuter' variety - the lesser bushbaby, mongoose, honey badger and the ever-elusive pangolin (finger's crossed). Moving silently through the darkness in the hopes of seeing one of these rare creatures...unforgettable.

Visit the local communities of Hwange

The wildlife and epic landscapes may have brought you to Hwange but your trip doesn't have to be a 24/7 safari. Many of the lodges in the area have forged a strong relationship with the local community and you'll have the chance to visit a traditional homestead, hear stories from the residents and learn about the ancient crafting skills that have been passed down for generations. You can even buy handmade items at the market to remember your trip. Hwange is home to a number of protected animals including roan, elephant and the African painted dog, and there are a number of conservation projects that you can visit and get involved with too!