Question 1

What are the most beautiful campsites in Hwange National Park?

Accepted Answer

To get a perfect impression of the park’s enormous variety, 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 on the road, do not forget that this is also a fantastic safari in itself; you cross the park’s different landscapes in one go and see both areas. Another absolute recommendation is  Masuma Dam . This unique campsite has a covered hide overlooking the water. It is especially magical during a full or half moon, as the dam is illuminated and you can continue observing wildlife throughout the evening and night. The only campsite that 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 demanding safari day . As you drive right through the park via unpaved roads, sandy paths and bumpy tracks, stopping regularly for wildlife as well, your average speed is very low. Set off at sunrise and make sure you have enough food and drinking water in the vehicle. Make it a memorable day with breakfast at  Ngweshla  and lunch at Massuma Dam.

Question 3

How does the crossing into Botswana via Pandamatenga work?

Accepted Answer

The border at Pandamatenga is one of the quietest and most efficient crossings between Zimbabwe and Botswana. From Robins Camp, it takes less than an hour to reach it. Bear in mind that you may not take any animal products across the border due to foot-and-mouth disease. If you leave Hwange before 9 am, you do not have to pay the park fee again 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 an absolute must when you are near Main Gate. The African wild dog ( painted dog ) is one of the most endangered predators in Africa. This conservation and research centre does fantastic work to protect local populations and rehabilitate injured or orphaned animals. The visit is free (a donation is greatly appreciated), and through an impressive presentation you learn all about this unique pack animal. If you are lucky, you can see the dogs up close 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 and know how long the driving days are from one place to another and whether it is worth it. Depending on where you want to include Hwange in your journey and how much time you have available, we will look at the most logical place to stay in Hwange.