Wildlife and waterways

Hwange National Park, the second-oldest park in Zimbabwe, was established in 1928. Found in north-west Zimbabwe, It is the largest park in the country at 14 650km² (5 656sq mi). It is an extension of the Kalahari Desert in Botswana, with no natural and permanent water sources, and it is fascinating.

Conservationists and lodge operators manage 60 artificial waterholes (or pans) throughout the park. Vegetation differs vastly from the north to the south, and comprises predominantly Kalahari sandveld, supporting teak and mopane woodlands and dry acacia scrub.

The wildlife is prolific with 100 mammal species. Additionally, it is home to the second-largest African elephant population after the Chobe region in Botswana, with an estimated 45 000 individuals that migrate between the countries. It is particularly famed for its impressive herds of Cape buffalo and super herds of elephants.

Hwange is known for spectacular lion, African wild dog and cheetah sightings. An area just outside the park is home to the famous Presidential herd of elephants, a semi-habituated herd of about 500+ elephants that has been under presidential protection since 1990. 

The African wild dog (or painted dog) is one of the most endangered species in the world. Native to Africa, and with fewer than 7 000 individuals left across the continent, an estimated 700 are found in Zimbabwe. Hwange is home to the Painted Dog Conservation Programme, a research and conservation initiative focused on protecting wild dog populations in Zimbabwe through education and community outreach.

With nearly 500 recorded species in the park, it is also a birder’s paradise, most of which are native. It is home to some of the largest flying birds, including the elegant, long-legged Kori bustard and the stately Secretary bird. 

Located on a private concession, a prime wildlife area in the heart of Hwange National Park, Somalisa is renowned for its up-close encounters with elephants that love to drink from the pool in front of the camp. Found under the dappled shade of an acacia grove along the edge of an ancient seasonal floodplain, Somalisa provides guests with awe-inspiring views of the golden savannah plains of Hwange.

Elegant designs blend with organic elements of the surrounding wilderness. Kudhinda, a local Zimbabwean fabric, is paired with modern decor influences to create an authentic yet contemporary African style. The luxury tented suites are beautifully furnished with decor that perfectly combines nature and sophistication.

Daily experiences include game drives, guided walking excursions, bird watching and cultural tours to local villages. Or enjoy a sleep-out experience in a treehouse located about 25 minutes away from camp. 

Victoria Falls, locally referred to as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”), is one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls. David Livingstone, the first European to have laid eyes on the falls, is famously credited with stating, "Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight."

Fed by the magnificent Zambezi River, which creates the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the falls are located in the Victoria Falls National Park, which has the notable feature of being a rainforest due to the spray. Considered to be the world’s largest sheet of falling water, Victoria Falls measures an impressive 1 708m (5 604ft) in width and 108m (354ft) in height during the wet season. This spectacle is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World.

The Zambezi River experiences a rainy season from November to early April, and a dry season for the rest of the year. The river’s flood season is February to May, with a peak in April. The spray from the falls typically rises to a height of over 400m (1 312ft) and sometimes even twice as high, and is then visible from up to 50km (31mi) away.

Zambezi National Park, comprising 56 000ha (140 000 acres), was split away from the Victoria Falls National Park in 1979. It is located 5km (3.1mi) upstream from Victoria Falls and includes 40km (25mi) of river frontage along the Zambezi River.

A Big Five destination, the park is renowned for its herds of antelope and plains game, including sable (Zimbabwe’s national animal), giraffe, zebra and many smaller wildlife species. The birdlife is prolific, with over 400 identified species, such as Pel’s fishing owl and the African skimmer. Aside from birds and land animals, 75 species of fish can be found within the boundaries of the park, including the famous tiger fish.

The quaint town of Victoria Falls is a crossroads for travellers and acts as a base from which to explore many of the experiential excursions on offer in the region – these include white water rafting, canoeing among hippos on the upper Zambezi, game drives, walking safaris, river cruises, cultural excursions in local communities, art safaris, shopping at the local markets and helicopter flips.

The town is the adrenaline capital, and several activities are available for adventure lovers. You may also wish to cross the border into Zambia to view the falls from another angle or enjoy lunch on Livingstone Island (seasonal) or, if you are brave, swim in Devil’s Pool above the falls. The activity menu is endless, and the visit will inspire your return!

The Palm River Hotel is a luxury property, tucked away among towering indigenous trees along the banks of the Zambezi River, creating a tranquil and private sanctuary. The hotel is located a mere 4km (2.4mi) from the rainforest and five minutes from the town centre. Inspired by the traditional East Coast Australian Queenslander design style, while maintaining the old-world charm that is the essence of Victoria Falls, has resulted in a brand new and distinctive landmark for Victoria Falls.

Rooms and suites, overlooking riverside gardens from private balconies, are beautifully appointed with space and comfort in mind. Stylish use is made of natural tones, locally sourced materials and artwork reflective of the area. The interior design is focused on blending the outdoors with the indoors.  

The bar, restaurant and swimming pool offer sweeping views of the palm-fringed riverfront. The Riverside Dining Experience offers hotel guests authentic, African-style barbecue dining. Indulge in beauty treatments at the spa, stay in shape at the fully equipped gym and join cruises on the river.