If you want to experience the raw beauty and wildlife of Africa, there’s no better place than Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. This natural haven is home to one of the largest populations of elephants in Africa and teems with other species like lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and plains game such as buffalo, giraffes, waterbuck, and zebra. Staying at one of Hwange’s safari lodges offers a truly unique way to experience the African wilderness. These lodges provide a luxurious and comfortable retreat where you can fully soak in the park’s expansive beauty. Finding the perfect lodge is key to making the most of your visit. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top 5 lodges in Hwange that provide exceptional access to the park’s amazing wildlife and promise a memorable safari adventure.
One of the most compelling reasons to stay in one of the lodges in Hwange National Park is the opportunity to witness the park’s incredible wildlife up close. Many lodges offer game drives led by experienced guides who navigate the terrain to help you spot the Big Five and countless other fascinating species.
Beyond game drives, many lodges provide a variety of activities designed to enhance your safari experience. Walking safaris, for instance, allow you to explore the park on foot, offering a more intimate look at the flora and fauna. These guided walks are perfect for discovering the smaller, often overlooked creatures and plants that contribute to the park’s rich ecosystem. Additionally, visits to the park’s many waterholes offer prime opportunities to observe a myriad of animals as they gather to quench their thirst under the hot African sun.
Many lodges offer all-inclusive packages that cover meals, drinks, and a range of activities, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their stay without worrying about the logistics. For those who prefer a more flexible approach, some lodges provide customizable packages, enabling guests to tailor their experiences according to their interests and preferences.
Top 5 Hwange National Park Lodges
Hideaways Nantwich Lodge
Hideaways Nantwich Lodge is an intimate eco-lodge overlooking the northern plains of Hwange National Park. Known as “Big Cat Country” due to its high density of lions and predators, this remote region provides guests with exceptional game viewing and a truly off-the-beaten-track safari experience. The lodge combines modern comfort with rustic charm, featuring nine stylish safari suites that retain elements of the original structure. Each suite accommodates two guests, with en-suite bathrooms and private outdoor showers and baths. Committed to conservation, Hideaways Nantwich Lodge invites guests to explore the wilderness through bush walks, game drives, or from the comfort of their suite. The warm Zimbabwean hospitality from the staff ensures a memorable stay, making the experience truly special.
Hideaways Bumbusi Wilderness Camp
Hideaways Bumbusi Wilderness Camp, located in a remote part of Hwange National Park, offers an intimate safari experience. Surrounded by gorges, drainage lines, and shaded slopes, the camp provides a quiet haven for wildlife, especially elephants attracted to its oasis during the dry season. Guests can explore the area through walking safaris and game drives, with the nearby Bumbusi National Monument adding cultural interest to each visit. The camp’s natural spring-fed pool, frequented by both guests and elephants, creates a memorable connection to the surrounding wilderness. Designed to blend with its environment, Hideaways Bumbusi Wilderness Camp features stone and thatch accommodations, offering a relaxing retreat after a day of adventure.
Camp Hwange
Camp Hwange is positioned on a private concession in Hwange National Park’s Sinamatella area. The camp features eight spacious tented chalets, each with its own ground-level deck overlooking a permanent waterhole. Camp Hwange offers exceptional game drives through Hwange’s diverse scenery, guided by experts who share insights into the park’s wildlife, birds, and plants. Guests can also enjoy watching animals from the camp’s unique log pile hides, which overlook waterholes. For a more adventurous experience, guided walking safaris provide the opportunity to observe animal tracks and potentially encounter larger wildlife on foot.
The Hide
Situated in the eastern reaches of Hwange National Park, The Hide offers a safari experience with exceptional game viewing just steps from your chalet. Guests can enjoy a variety of daily activities and the warm hospitality of the staff. The Main Lodge boasts stunning views of a waterhole and features spacious deluxe, family, and honeymoon tents. For a more intimate experience, the Private Hide provides a retreat for couples or small groups of up to eight, complete with a private dining and lounge area, a secluded pool with comfortable sun lounges, and a deck for wildlife observation, ensuring a relaxed and unforgettable holiday.
Somalisa Camp
Somalisa Camp is a charming tented camp located in the heart of Hwange National Park on the Somalisa concession. Designed to harmonize with the bush and natural surroundings, the camp features six luxurious canvas tents, each decorated to reflect the old era and ancient African tribes. Each tent includes an en-suite bathroom, tea and coffee facilities, a desk and chair, and options for single or king-sized beds.
Hwange National Park is a premier destination for those seeking to experience Africa’s wildlife and natural beauty. By staying at one of the top 5 lodges in Hwange, you not only gain access to some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in the world but also enjoy the comforts and amenities that make your adventure truly unforgettable.
