Reviews of Camp Hwange
Wildlife sightings and reviews
87 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Camp Hwange and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
89% success
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100% success
91% success
88% success
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"It's all about the Game"
We were very appreciative that they set up a table on the small 'patio' in front of our room each evening and served our dinner there. Those doing the serving were delightful.
A few constructive comments - the 'back of house' was not as strong as the front. Our time of departure from the Victoria Falls Hotel was never confirmed and we spent too much of our all-too-short stay there running around during the evening and early morning trying to get the phone answered to find out. Comparing the housekeeping and laundry service with other equally remote camps, it left a lot to be desired. They have a known problem with dormice seeking food during the night. If we had been advised we could have avoided a luggage bag and a flight bag having holes eaten through them and the contents shredded." See all these reviews: 10n in Zimbabwe; 6n in Botswana; 4n in Namibia
"Beautiful camp with incredible amenities"
The facilities are beautiful. Of all the camps we visited, Camp Hwange had the most beautiful rooms and the best food. It was all delicious!
We did find some of the staff a bit stuffy and awkward. Maybe it's because their dining table is very wide and long that meals can feel uncomfortable. During one interaction, a manager gave me the wifi details and told me if too many people are using it in the common area they will "shut it down" because they want their guests to be social. The social aspect felt a bit forced at Camp Hwange and not natural as a result of their staff.
Overall, I'd recommend Camp Hwange because Julian is an excellent guide with an incredible amount of knowledge and the facilities are beautiful." See all these reviews: 9n in Zimbabwe; 5n in Botswana
"Camp Hwange Hidden Gem"
The rooms are large and comfortable with great views of the game gathering at the watering hole. In addition to game drives in a jeep, there are many opportunities for walking.
During the day, we tracked lions, followed a cheetah, and experienced outstanding night drives.
For easier access, an airstrip is being built in the vicinity and should be completed in the near future.
Expert Africa arranged for Julian Brookstein as a private guide here; these travellers commented:
We had the privilege of being guided by Julian Brookstein. In addition to his vast knowledge of the animals in the bush, Julian has a particular interest in lion conservation. As we sat observing two lionesses and their two year old cubs, Julian shared the most fascinating lineage and history of the lions in the area. We also had the opportunity to track lions on a seven mile walking safari. Hwange offers the opportunity for night drives and Julian did not disappoint. His ability to spot small game was remarkable.
On our final day, we tracked a cheetah who cavorted and "posed" for us for over an hour." See all these reviews: 6n in Zimbabwe; 4n in Botswana
"True African wildlife experience "
The best thing about Camp Hwange is Adam, a highly knowledgeable, enthusiastic and engaging pro guide with a great sense of humor. We chose Zimbabwe specifically for walking safari. We wanted to experience not just the big game but everything about the African wilderness. Adam made sure that we got more than what we expected. With the help of Changa, the tracker and Adam, we were able to see over 25 species of animals, 80 species of birds, learn about the vegetation of Hwange and truly appreciate the unique ecology of Africa.
Some of the things we really enjoyed was having meals with the other guests at the camp and the staff, sharing our exciting experiences. Tracy, Lana, McKenzie and the entire kitchen staff were amazing. The fellow travelers also made a big difference and the credit goes to the Camp Hwange staff for making it happen. Camp Hwange took note of our dietary requirements, in that we are vegetarians and served us the choicest of veg delights including freshly baked pastries and cookies.
There is so much to do at Camp Hwange that we thought 3 days was too short a stay and we wish to go back for more." See all these reviews: 8n in Zimbabwe
"Camp Hwange review"
The accomodations are very clean and comfortable. Food is superb and they go out of their way to accomodate vegetarians.
This was our second trip to Hwange and will not be our last. We look forward to our next trip to Africa and Hwange." See all these reviews: 7n in Zimbabwe
"Camp Hwange review"
Rooms are comfortable and well equipped
Food was of a consistently good standard
Service from all the camp staff and the guiding was excellent throughout our stay." See all these reviews: 10n in Zimbabwe
"Camp Hwange - the highlight of the trip"
However, the safaris are so good that there is little time to watch what goes on at the Waterhole. This is a full on Safari experience with excellent guiding (Spike is the best guide I have encountered in Africa - knowledgeable, entertaining and great company) and included walking and a full day (14 hour) safari that gave an opportunity to see another part of the park.
The food is good and plentiful and all the staff are committed to ensuring that you have a great time. This is a happy place to stay - a big thank you to all." See all these reviews: 10n in Zimbabwe
"Excellent"
The highlight was the foot safaris with Julian - tracking lions on foot and walking to watch elephants and buffalo in the river was an amazing experience.
We'd love to go back." See all these reviews: 9n in Namibia; 7n in Zimbabwe; 3n in Botswana
"Full on in many ways"
Soon became clear that Hwange walking differed markedly from rest of Africa previously experienced. As soon as a big five animal spotted, or tracks found, this became a tracking and then stalking exercise , with the intention of getting as close as possible , without intentionally creating a hazardous encounter. This evolution from hunting was striking, with considerable discussion over dinner about firearms, particularly with NRA supporting Americans. All the guides supported trophy hunting for cash as the only way to support conservation.
Our guide, a white Zimbabwean, working freelance was extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of of the bush and animals.
found there. He was very keen to please and did suggest varying the usual timetable with a full day out, and a couple of long walks initially 'nature' ones but reverting to stalking if the opportunity arose. The normal timetable was simple breakfast at 05.30, leave at 6.00, return for lunch at ca 12.30. Tea at 4.00 leave at 4.30 with spotlight from dusk till 7.30 with dinner finishing about 9.00. We felt that this did not give enough private time but given the meal times difficult to circumvent. However nobody would complain they weren't getting their moneysworth.
The extreme dryness encompassing Southern Africa this year showed in the reliance of all animals on the few water holes and damned lakes or a couple of natural spring areas. Even the ones accessible from the cam p were up to 20km apart, so it involved considerable travel between sites where animals were prolific.
It should be noted that the transfer from Vic Falls to Camp Hwange took 4.5 hours.of which 2.5 were in the park. A long time if people were coming straight out after a flight.
Description of camp as comfortable but not luxurious absolutely accurate ,food very good. Suited us very well." See all these reviews: 8n in Zimbabwe
"Lots of wildlife around Camp Hwange"
He was knowledgeable and experienced. When they talk about the great guiding in Zimbabwe, Andy is what they mean.
Couldn't be happier with the time spent at Camp Hwange. We saw it all except for a cheetah, and rhino. Enjoyed listening to the animals around the watering hole at night.
I highly recommend Camp Hwange." See all these reviews: 10n in Zimbabwe; 1n in South Africa
Holiday styles & special interests in Zimbabwe
From birdwatching breaks to walking holidays, find great ideas for your trip in Zimbabwe.
Other lodges in Hwange National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Somalisa Camp
Somalisa is a luxurious, yet remote, safari camp in Hwange National Park, offering walking safaris and game drives.
The Hide
Located in a small, private concession, The Hide is a relaxed and comfortable camp offering submerged hides and great family accommodation.
Hwange Bush Camp
Hwange Bush Camp is a small seasonal camp offering comfortable tents, great food, and superb guiding, and is often used by exclusive groups.
Little Makalolo Camp
Tucked away in Hwange National Park overlooking a waterhole, Little Makalolo Camp combines top guiding with excellent wildlife watching.
Somalisa Expeditions
A simple but stylish camp, Somalisa Expeditions sits in the heart of Hwange National Park, offering walking safaris and game drives.
Davison's Camp
Within the Linkwasha Concession, Davison's Camp offers superb value for money, morning walking safaris and spot-lit drives after dark.
Nehimba Lodge
Nehimba is a comfortable, good-value camp in a remote area of Hwange National Park, teeming with wildlife.
Bomani Tented Lodge
Bomani is a down-to-earth lodge with a range of activities in a remote region of western Zimbabwe, adjacent to Hwange National Park.
Verney's Camp
Verney's Camp is one of the newest offerings in Hwange, located in the wildlife rich, open landscape in the south-eastern section of the park.
Jozibanini Camp
Remote and rugged, Jozibanini is one of the most remote camps in Zimabwe's largest National Park. Stay here for a real wilderness experience.
Khulu Bush Camp
Just outside Hwange National Park, Khulu Bush Camp features a waterhole popular with wildlife, especially elephants and offers excellent value for money.
Somalisa Acacia
Somalisa Acacia is a family-friendly, yet remote and luxurious safari camp in Hwange National Park.
Linkwasha Camp
In its own private concession within Hwange National Park, Linkwasha offers excellent wildlife sightings and luxurious surroundings.
Camelthorn
Camelthorn is a stylish lodge with a range of activities in a remote region of western Zimbabwe, adjacent to Hwange National Park.
Ivory Lodge
Just outside Hwange National Park, the small Ivory Lodge is a great place to see large herds of elephant as well as smaller plains game.
Deteema Springs Camp
Nestled deep in Hwange National Parks rugged northern sector, Deteema Springs Camp promises visitors an authentic bush amp experience.
Stimela Star
The Stimela Star is a luxury overnight train that starts in Victoria Falls before making it's way down to Hwange National Park where you can start your safari.
Daka Camp
One of the more remote camps in Hwange National Park, Deka Camp sits almost on the border with Botswana.
Sable Valley Lodge
Set on the 12km Dete Vlei, the recently upgraded and family-friendly Sable Valley sits in a private reserve within easy reach of Hwange National Park.
Khulu's Retreat
Just outside Hwange National Park, Khulu's Retreat is an exclusive private villa and is a great place to spoil yourself on a safari in Zimbabwe.
Elephant's Eye
In a private concession just outside Hwange National Park, the comfortable Elephant's Eye overlooks a pan and waterholes.
