Hwange works for families with some planning.
Suitability: ★★★★★
Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's largest park, bordering Botswana and managed by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority. It is known for its large elephant population, which relies on waterholes in the dry season.
Why Hwange for families?
- It is a malaria area, so check with your paediatrician and choose lodges with mosquito nets.
- The transfer from the airport is relatively short, which helps with children.
- Some camps and activities have minimum ages, so confirm with the provider before booking.
What awaits you in Hwange
- Zimbabwe's largest national park
- One of Africa's largest elephant populations
- Waterholes that draw wildlife in the dry season
- African wild dog and sable antelope
- Close to Victoria Falls
Wildlife you may encounter: elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs, hyenas and giraffes.
Suggested time on the ground: 3 to 4 days. Most visitors arrive via Victoria Falls Airport and drive to Main Camp, or take light aircraft to private camp airstrips in the park.
Activities that fit
game drives, birdwatching and camping.
When to go
The best period overall is August to October. For quieter months and often better value, try March to May and November.
Late in the dry season wildlife depends on pumped waterholes and elephants gather in high densities.
Other destinations for families
- Addo South Africa
- Ngorongoro Tanzania
- Pilanesberg South Africa
- Victoria Falls Zimbabwe
- Akagera Rwanda
- Kruger South Africa
Full Hwange guideBest safaris for families
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hwange good for families?
Hwange works for families with some planning.
When should I visit Hwange for families?
Generally August to October.
What should I know before booking?
It is a malaria area, so check with your paediatrician and choose lodges with mosquito nets.
Sources: ZimParks - Hwange National Park · Zimbabwe Tourism - Hwange National Park · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Hwange National Park
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.
