A journey into the heart of Hwange
There’s something magical about anticipating a trip and having in mind all the wonderful things we are expecting to see and feel. The moment we stepped onto the plane, our hearts were already racing with excitement. We were heading to Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, a place that held a special significance for Benson, our friend and business partner, who had spent the early years of his career there. He helped build the Little Makalolo camp and the hide that’s there; although we had been to so many other places on safari with Benson, this one felt new and exciting- a chance to take him home in a way.
From the moment we landed, everything went great! Our guide Liberty picked us up and soon enough we were on a game drive to camp. Within minutes of driving to camp, we spotted our first elephant at a watering hole. The size and majesty of this creature took our breath away. We quietly stepped out of the vehicle and walked closer, always staying low to the ground. There’s something humbling about walking toward an elephant – it’s an experience that makes you appreciate their size. This was just the beginning of what we came to call our “elephant hangout”, a moment that definitely set the tone for the entire trip.
After our elephant adventure, we stopped below a beautiful tree to have a light lunch - and a glass of wine because, why not? - while watching elephants play and interact with each other in a nearby watering hole before continuing on our game drive to camp.
Life at camp.
In this concession, you can find three different camps, each of them unique in their own way. Davison Camp is a cozy and welcoming spot perfect for larger groups, with just the right balance of comfort and rustic charm. But it was Little Makalolo that stole our hearts. It’s designed in a traditional bush style, the camp was a perfect blend of luxury and authenticity. Benson’s stories of helping build this camp made it even more special, it felt like we were stepping into a part of his history.
The camps in Hwange offer the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness, with cozy accommodations, excellent service, and stunning views.
Little Makalolo camp had a lot to offer, but there still was a little more luxury to be discovered within this area. Linkwasha Camp has rooms that are very spacious, with raised decks that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Entering the hide placed us at eye level with the watering hole, allowing us to observe elephants. If you're luckier than we were, you might even spot a pack of wild dogs! The level of service was impeccable and the food was exquisite.
Encounters with Wildlife
The wildlife in Hwange is nothing short of extraordinary, if we’re being honest. Every day brought new wonders. We could spend hours by the watering holes, watching elephants interact, play and reveal their unique personalities! One of the days we enjoyed what’s called a bush lunch, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
On our first evening at Little Makalolo, we sat on the deck to enjoy our Sundowners as the sun was setting in the horizon. I was savoring a glass of perfectly chilled Chenin Blanc, the golden light painting the sky, when something magical happened. We received a very special visit from an Elephant, drawn to the camp’s pool for a drink of water. (And don’t worry—these pools are chlorine-free, so they’re perfectly safe for elephants!) It was one of those moments that felt almost too special to be real. Each encounter felt like a privilege, a reminder of how interconnected and fragile this ecosystem is.
Having said all that, you must be wondering why we chose these specific camps for this visit? What makes this concession so special is its unique position within Zimbabwe. It has access to both a private concession available only to those staying at these 3 camps along with the broader Hwange National Park, offering a wide diversity of wildlife and landscapes. Whether you’re staying at the budget-friendly Davison Camp, the charming Little Makalolo, or the luxurious Linkwasha, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience all around.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for a journey you’ll never forget!
