From Victoria Falls : Hwange Day and Overnight Safari

Exploring the Hwange Day and Overnight Safari from Victoria Falls

If you’re visiting Victoria Falls and craving a real taste of Africa’s wildlife, the Hwange Day and Overnight Safari offers a compelling escape into Zimbabwe’s largest national park. Promising a mix of game drives, scenic vistas, and comfortable wilderness accommodation, this tour is designed for travelers eager to see the Big Five and enjoy nature.

Three aspects make this experience particularly appealing: the chance to spot some of Africa’s most iconic animals, the opportunity to relax over a picnic in the bush, and the chance to experience the park at sunrise and sunset — prime times for wildlife sightings. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves early mornings, and certain items like cameras or backpacks are not allowed, which might feel restrictive but are part of the safety and security measures.

This safari suits those who love adventure, wildlife photography, or simply want a close-up encounter with Africa’s creatures. It’s also ideal for travelers with a flexible schedule, as the tour offers a full day plus overnight stay in the park — making the most of your time in Zimbabwe’s wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife Diversity: The park’s home to elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and a high chance of seeing the Big Five.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides help track animals and share insights, enhancing your experience.
• Scenic Picnic: Enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch amidst stunning bush views.
• Sunrise & Sunset: Prime animal viewing times that maximize sightings.
• Overnight Experience: Sleep comfortably at Gwango in the park, with dinner and campfire stories.
• Highly Controlled: Certain items like cameras, sunglasses, or cellphones are not allowed for safety reasons.

A Deep Dive into the Hwange Safari Experience

Starting the Day with a Morning Game Drive

The adventure begins early, typically with a pickup from Victoria Falls, ensuring you arrive at Hwange National Park just as the dawn breaks. This is when the bush comes alive; the cool morning air adds to the thrill of spotting wildlife before the heat of the day.

Travelers mention “a chance to see animals at their most active,” and guides are praised for their ability to locate elusive creatures. The dedicated guides, often locals with extensive knowledge, help you track animals and interpret their behaviors, making each sighting more meaningful. We loved the way guides like “James” or “Charles” shared insights about the animals, turning the game drive into a fascinating storytelling session.

A Picnic in the Heart of the Wilderness

Mid-morning, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic spot inside the park. Imagine sitting on a picnic blanket, surrounded by the sounds of the bush — birds calling, distant elephant trumpets, and the rustling of leaves. This break is more than just a meal; it’s a moment to breathe in the wild and appreciate the vastness of Hwange’s landscape.

Guests have shared that the picnic spots are thoughtfully chosen, offering both privacy and incredible views. It’s an opportunity to relax and reflect on the morning’s sightings while enjoying a traditional bush lunch.

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Afternoon Game Drive & Wildlife Spotting

Post-lunch, your game drive continues into different areas of the park. Hwange’s diverse habitat supports a wide variety of animals, and guides are skilled at helping you spot them. Some reviews mention “high chances of seeing lions and elephants,” and many guests are pleasantly surprised by the frequency of sightings.

The park is particularly significant for its large herds of elephants, often seen drinking at waterholes or meandering through the bush. The guides’ expertise in tracking and patience is often highlighted, with visitors noting how they “kept us in the best spots” for wildlife viewing.

Evening & Night Activities

As the sun dips, you’ll head to your overnight accommodation at Gwango, located within the park. Here, comfort meets wilderness, with a cozy setting and delicious dinner on offer. This part of the experience is praised for its authenticity — a perfect base for night-time adventures.

Guests often gather around the campfire, sharing stories under a blanket of stars, listening to the sounds of nocturnal animals. For those seeking more adventure, a night game drive with tracking elephants by moonlight adds an extra thrill. Though the tour notes that certain items like professional cameras or selfie sticks are not allowed, the focus remains on enjoying the environment safely.

The Next Morning: Final Wildlife Encounters

The following dawn begins with another game drive. This last chance to see Hwange’s wildlife often produces memorable moments, as animals tend to be active early in the morning. Returning to camp for breakfast wraps up the safari, leaving you with a deep appreciation for Africa’s wilderness.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, plus transfer from the airport to your accommodation, which adds convenience. It’s a well-organized experience that emphasizes comfort and safety within the wilderness context.

However, some costs are excluded, notably park fees, gratuities, and airfare, which travelers should budget for separately. The tour also maintains strict rules about what you can and cannot bring — no shoes, sunglasses, cameras, or backpacks are allowed, primarily for safety and security reasons.

Practical Tips

• Arrive prepared for early mornings and potentially hot days.
• Dress modestly; sleeveless shirts and shorts are not permitted.
• Remember that rain or shine, the safari will go ahead — so pack accordingly.
• Book early if you want to secure a spot, as the tour operates on a ‘reserve and pay later’ basis, offering flexible planning.

Authentic Guides & Traveler Insights

Many guests praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer highlighted that “the guides really knew their stuff,” helping them spot animals even in tricky terrain. Others appreciated the chance to witness animals in their natural habitat, describing the experience as “powerful and humbling.”

A common theme in reviews is the quality of the wildlife sightings, especially the Big Five, which many travelers consider the highlight. The early morning drives, in particular, are noted for their potential to see animals at their most active.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photography lovers, and anyone eager to experience Africa’s iconic animals firsthand. It offers a genuine adventure in a well-managed setting, with opportunities to relax and reflect in between game drives.

If you’re seeking a balanced combination of adventure and comfort, and don’t mind early mornings or strict packing rules, this safari offers remarkable value for the price.

Final Thoughts

The Hwange Day and Overnight Safari from Victoria Falls is a thoughtfully curated experience that delivers a genuine taste of African wilderness. With expert guides, stunning wildlife sightings, and the chance to spend a night under the stars, it’s a comprehensive adventure that balances excitement and comfort.

Travelers who want to see the Big Five, enjoy scenic bush picnics, and have quality overnight accommodations will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their Zimbabwe itinerary. The experience’s authenticity, combined with the chance to witness Africa’s iconic animals in their natural habitat, makes it a memorable journey worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years old, and babies under 1 year are also not suitable, mainly due to early start times and the nature of the wilderness experience.

What should I bring?
While cameras and phones are not allowed during the game drives, you might find it useful to bring personal essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for daytime comfort — although these items are restricted on the vehicles.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this experience available rain or shine?
Yes, the safari goes ahead in all weather conditions, so be prepared for whatever weather you might encounter.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay at Gwango, which provides a comfortable and authentic bush experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of game viewing.

Do I need park fees or extra costs?
Yes, park fees are not included in the price and should be budgeted separately, along with gratuities and airfare.

This Hwange safari offers a genuine glimpse into Zimbabwe’s wildlife and landscapes, perfect for travelers craving adventure, authentic encounters, and a good dose of nature.

You can check availability for your dates here: