Is Hwange National Park Safe?

Hwange has one of Africa's largest elephant populations, and herds of several hundred are common around waterholes. Give elephants plenty of space and never block their path. Walking safaris with armed guides are available and well-managed. Lions, wild dogs, and buffalo are all present. At unfenced camps, remain inside after dark unless escorted by staff.

Malaria is present throughout the park. Antimalarial prophylaxis is essential. Bilharzia is present in some water sources. Ensure hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies vaccinations are current. Tsetse flies are present in some areas and their bites are painful. Drink only bottled or purified water. The nearest hospital with reasonable facilities is in Bulawayo (3 to 4 hours).

Hwange National Park itself is safe. Victoria Falls, the usual gateway, has a well-developed tourism sector and is safe for visitors. Zimbabwe has experienced political instability, but this rarely affects tourists in national parks. Check current travel advisories. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

The drive from Victoria Falls to Hwange takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. Park roads vary in quality and a 4WD is recommended, especially in the wet season. Charter flights to airstrips within the park are available. Fuel availability can be unreliable in Zimbabwe, so fill up when possible. Some roads become impassable during heavy rains.

Summer (October to March) brings extreme heat exceeding 40 degrees Celsius and heavy afternoon thunderstorms. The rainy season can make roads impassable. The dry season (May to October) is cooler and offers better game viewing. Winter nights can be cold, dropping below 5 degrees Celsius.

Natural water sources harbour crocodiles and bilharzia. Never swim in rivers or waterholes. The artificial waterholes (pumped by conservation efforts) attract large numbers of dangerous animals. Lodge pools are safe. Drink only treated or bottled water.