· ZW

Hwange

Hwange, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe

Hwange, located in the Matabeleland North province of Zimbabwe, is a destination that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and rich wildlife. This region is home to the renowned Hwange National Park, one of the la…

#Hwange#Matabeleland North#Zimbabwe#National Park#Wildlife

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Hwange.

Top Hotels in Hwange

Top Flights to Hwange

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Hwange.

Tours

Hwange National Park Safari

Experience the vast wildlife and stunning landscapes of one of Africa's largest game reserves. Spot elephants, lions, and various bird species.

Painted Dog Conservation Centre

Learn about efforts to protect the endangered Painted Dogs through interactive displays and guided tours.

Victoria Falls Day Trip

Take a day trip to the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Shopping

Hwange Town Market

Shop for local crafts, fresh produce, and traditional items at the bustling Hwange Town Market.

Nechibondo Meat Market

Experience local food culture at this popular local meat market.

Outdoor

Ngamo Plains Exploration

Discover the plains of Ngamo, a great spot for bird watching and experiencing the serenity of nature.

Baobab Kgari Hike

Trek through regions featuring ancient baobab trees and stunning landscapes.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Hwange.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

42581.0

Languages

English, Ndebele, Shona, Tonga, Lozi

Average weather

Hwange

Jan

30°19°

Feb

29°18°

Mar

29°17°

Apr

28°14°

May

26°10°

Jun

24°7°

Jul

24°7°

Aug

27°10°

Sep

31°15°

Oct

34°19°

Nov

33°20°

Dec

31°20°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Hwange.

What people love

Hwange National Park, located in Hwange, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe, is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and offers a unique and exciting travel experience. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Hwange:

Wildlife Viewing: Hwange National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos. The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Birdwatching: Hwange is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the park. Birdwatching enthusiasts can spot a wide variety of bird species, including raptors, waterbirds, and colorful migratory birds.
Scenic Landscapes: The park boasts diverse landscapes, including open grasslands, woodlands, and natural waterholes. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the African savanna and witness stunning sunsets over the vast plains.
Guided Safaris: Visitors to Hwange National Park can partake in guided safaris, both on foot and in vehicles, led by experienced guides. These safaris provide a safe and informative way to explore the park and observe its wildlife up close.
Cultural Experiences: Travelers to Hwange can also immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting nearby villages and interacting with the local communities. This offers a unique opportunity to learn about Zimbabwean traditions and way of life.
Accommodation Options: Hwange National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, including luxury lodges, tented camps, and self-catering chalets. Visitors can choose to stay within the park or in nearby areas.

Overall, traveling to Hwange in Zimbabwe offers an unforgettable safari experience, abundant wildlife sightings, stunning landscapes, and cultural interactions, making it a top destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Enjoy your trip to Hwange National Park!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Hwange, located in Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe, include:

Health Concerns: It's important to be aware of potential health risks such as malaria and other diseases prevalent in the region. Travelers should take necessary precautions, including vaccinations and taking prophylactic medications.
Safety: While Hwange National Park is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, visitors should be cautious of wild animals and follow safety guidelines provided by tour operators and park authorities.
Infrastructure: The infrastructure in the region may not be as developed as in some other tourist destinations, so travelers should be prepared for potentially challenging road conditions and limited facilities in remote areas.
Weather: Hwange experiences a dry season from May to October and a rainy season from November to April. The weather can be extreme, with hot temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night. Travelers should pack accordingly and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Cultural Sensitivity: It's important for travelers to be respectful of local customs and traditions in Hwange and throughout Zimbabwe. Understanding and adhering to cultural norms can help ensure a positive and enriching travel experience.

Overall, while Hwange offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities and natural beauty, travelers should be mindful of these potential challenges to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Hwange, located in Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe, is a town with a rich history, primarily associated with coal mining and its proximity to Hwange National Park.

Early History and Name

Hwange was originally known as Wankie, a name derived from a local chief, Hwange, who led the Nambya people in the area. The name change to Hwange occurred post-independence in Zimbabwe as part of a broader effort to Africanize place names.

Coal Mining

The town's development is closely tied to the discovery of coal. The Wankie Colliery Company Limited was established in 1899, following the discovery of coal by European settlers. The colliery became one of the largest coal mining operations in Zimbabwe, significantly contributing to the town's growth and economy.

Wankie Coal Mine Disaster

A significant event in Hwange's history is the Wankie coal mine disaster of June 6, 1972. It remains the deadliest mining disaster in Zimbabwe's history, with 426 miners losing their lives due to an underground explosion.

Hwange National Park

Hwange is also known for its proximity to Hwange National Park, the largest natural reserve in Zimbabwe. Established in 1928, the park was originally a hunting ground before being designated a national park. It's renowned for its large elephant population and diverse wildlife, attracting tourists from around the world.

Post-Independence and Recent Developments

Following Zimbabwe's independence in 1980, Hwange continued to be an important coal mining town, although the industry has faced challenges due to economic and political issues in the country. In recent years, there have been efforts to revitalize the mining sector and improve infrastructure.

Landmarks and Attractions

Hwange National Park: As mentioned, the park is a major attraction, offering game drives, walking safaris, and bird watching.
Victoria Falls: While not in Hwange, Victoria Falls is relatively nearby, making Hwange a common stop for tourists traveling between the park and the falls.
Hwange Colliery: The mining operations and historical sites related to the colliery provide insight into the area's industrial heritage.

Cultural Significance

Hwange and the surrounding region remain an important cultural area for the Nambya and Tonga peoples, with their traditions and history deeply rooted in the landscape.

Overall, Hwange's history is a tapestry of industrial development, natural beauty, and cultural significance, marked by both triumphs and tragedies that have shaped its present-day character.