Question 1

What are the best campsites in Hwange National Park?

Accepted Answer

To get a perfect impression of the park’s enormous diversity, we recommend combining  Silwane Camp  (just outside the park near the beautiful Kennedy region) with the privately managed  Robins Camp  in the far north-west. Although the drive between these two camps is a long day of driving, do not forget that it is also a fantastic safari in its own right; you cross the park’s various landscapes in one go and see both areas. Another absolute highlight is  Masuma Dam . This unique campsite has a covered hide overlooking the water. It is particularly magical around the full or half moon, as the dam is illuminated and you can continue observing the wildlife throughout the evening and night. The only campsite we   do not recommend is Sinamatella ; the access route runs through a large, dusty mining area that detracts from the wilderness experience.

Question 2

Is it feasible to drive from Silwane to Robins Camp in one day?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is possible, but it is a  long and intensive safari day . As you drive right through the park on unpaved roads, sandy tracks and bumpy trails, stopping regularly for wildlife, your average speed is very low. Set off at sunrise and make sure you have enough food and drinking water in the car. Make a lovely day of it with breakfast at  Ngweshla  and lunch at Massuma Dam.

Question 3

How does the crossing to Botswana via Pandamatenga work?

Accepted Answer

The border at Pandamatenga is one of the quietest and most efficient crossings between Zimbabwe and Botswana. It is less than an hour from Robins Camp. Bear in mind that you are not allowed to take animal products across the border due to foot-and-mouth disease. If you leave Hwange before 9 a.m., you do not have to pay the park fee again for that day. Just across the border in Botswana, you are immediately in a strategic area: from the nearby  Wilderness Eco-Lodge  you can take day trips to the famous, elephant-rich Chobe Riverfront and the remote, bird-rich Kazuma Pan.

Question 4

Is the Painted Dog Conservation Centre near Main Gate worth visiting?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is highly recommended when you are near Main Gate. The African wild dog ( painted dog ) is one of the most endangered predators in Africa. This rescue and research centre does fantastic work protecting local populations and rehabilitating injured or orphaned animals. Visiting is free (a donation is greatly appreciated), and through an impressive presentation you learn all about this unique social animal. If you are lucky, you can see the dogs at very close quarters in the large outdoor enclosures.

Question 5

Why visit Hwange with Beyond Routes?

Accepted Answer

Hwange is an enormous park with various places to stay. We have stayed in every part of the park, so we know how long the drives from one area to another take and whether they are worthwhile. Depending on where you would like to include Hwange in your trip and how much time you have available, we will consider which place in Hwange makes the most sense for you to stay.