Somalisa Expedition
Hwange National Park
Somalisa Expeditions is set in the heart of Hwange National Park, and is known as the land of the giants for its big elephant herds. As an exact replica of the original Somalisa Camp, Somalisa Expeditions offers one of the most authentic ways to experience this exceptional wildlife haven. Nestled under an incredible grove of Acacias, along the edge of a seasonal flood plain. Somalisa Expeditions’ main area includes a lounge and dining area on raised decking which overlooks a small pool, which elephants have become habituated to drinking out of. Add to this, the water hole is frequently used as a ‘mud-bath’ and a popular rendezvous for the elephants. The up-close encounters and photographic opportunities with these majestic animals is endless. Consisting of six elegantly furnished Meru Style Tents, each tent has en suite bathroom facilities including flush toilets and an outdoor shower. Activities include guided walks lead by qualified and passionate guides who will share their knowledge and love of the bush with you, game drives and night drives. Wildlife sighting include elephant, kudu, sable antelope, zebra, wildebeest, gemsbok, the rare
and endangered roan antelope, buffalo, giraffe, lion, leopard, hyena and many other wildlife species.
Hwange National Park is the largest in Zimbabwe, covering an impressive 5,700 square miles. The park is named after a local Nhanzwa chief, and was once the royal hunting ground for the Ndebele warrior-king Mzilikazi, before being classified as a protected National Park in 1929.
As you’d expect from a park of this size, the breadth of wildlife species is astounding. Over 100 species of mammals reside here, whilst almost 400 species of birds decorate the skies. Perhaps most exciting is the 40,000-strong population of tusker elephants, whose presence is world-renowned and a joy to watch day after day.
The dry season (from July to October) is the best time to visit Hwange, as large concentrations of wildlife - particularly the wonderful elephant herds - descend upon the area to drink from the waterholes in order to survive in this hot and unforgiving environment. Yet, whilst the rains from December to March will see the wildlife dispersing across the park, thus making them harder to spot, the summer showers also bring forth stunning vegetation. This ensures mesmeric bird-watching opportunities as the local population finds itself bolstered by the migrants coming down from the Northern Hemisphere. Hwange National Park truly is a year-round wonderland.
AT A GLANCE
- 6 Meru raised tents with private decks
- En-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, copper slipper-style bathtub & flushing toilets
- Splash pool
- Private concession along the famous Kennedy vlei line
- Known for large concentrations of elephant and buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah, hippo, giraffe, hyena, kudu, sable antelope, zebra, wildebeest, gemsbok, roan antelope, wild dog and many other wildlife species
- Game drives, night drives
- Walking safaris
- Birdwatching
- Cultural tours of local villages
- All Inclusive: 3 meals daily, soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beer, safari activities, laundry
- Solar power with in-room charging facilities
