Traveling from Victoria Falls to Hwange National Park is one of Zimbabwe’s most rewarding journeys, not just for the wildlife waiting at the other end, but for the landscapes and small towns that connect these two iconic destinations.
| Distance: | 104km (64 miles) |
| Drive Time: | Just over an hour |
| Main Route: Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road (tarred) | 52Km |
| Best Season: | May–October for wildlife |
Getting There
By Road
The most common way to reach Hwange is by road transfer. Most safari lodges arrange private or shared transfers directly from Victoria Falls hotels or from Victoria Falls airport in air-conditioned 4x4s or minibuses.
For independent travelers, self-driving is straightforward. The road is well-signposted and mostly tarred, though 4×4 vehicles are recommended inside the park. Always carry cash (USD) for fuel and park fees, and drive during daylight hours.
By Air
Charter and scheduled light aircraft flights operate between Victoria Falls Airport and Robins airstrip. Flight time is around 40 minutes, offering spectacular aerial views of the Zambezi River, Kalahari sands, and mopane woodland.
Entry Points into Hwange
Hwange National Park has three main entrances:
- Nantwich Gate (North-West): Closest to Victoria Falls, around 1½–2 hours from town
- Main Camp (North-East): Closest to Hwange Town, accessible from the main highway
- Sinamatella (Central): Access to several pans
Each entrance offers unique perspectives, from open plains to dense teak forests, all sharing Hwange’s famous abundance of elephants, lions, and birdlife.
Best Time to Travel
Dry Season (May–October): Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around waterholes. Roads are in good condition, and weather is comfortable for game drives.
Rainy Season (November–March): Lush landscapes but gravel roads inside the park can be challenging. The main tarred highway remains reliable year-round.
Essential Tips
Safety & Timing
- Leave Victoria Falls by mid-morning to arrive at your safari camp in good time
- Wildlife (elephants, buffalo) frequently cross roads, so drive slowly
- Cell phone coverage is patchy beyond the main highway
- Save emergency contacts and download offline maps before departure
Practical Matters
- Fuel up in Victoria Falls Town, as stations are limited
- Carry USD cash in small denominations for park fees and tips
- Respect speed limits as police checkpoints are common
- Inform your lodge of arrival time; most request arrivals before 4 pm
What to Pack
- Water (2L per person) and snacks
- Binoculars for roadside wildlife
- Sunscreen, hat, and camera
- Basic first aid kit and torch
The Journey Itself
What makes this trip special isn’t only the destination, it’s the journey. You leave behind the mist and roar of the Falls and travel into the quiet rhythm of Zimbabwe’s interior. The air grows drier, the trees change shape, and by the time you reach Hwange, the road feels like it’s led you not just deeper into the country, but closer to the wild itself.
