An extraordinary safari where wildlife comes remarkably close

Picture yourself watching elephants from a sunken hide as they pass just metres away, or walking across dusty plains before heading out on a game drive in search of African wild dogs racing after impala through the teak woodland. Follow lions as they quietly approach a buffalo calf at a waterhole, one of the vital sources of life in this arid wilderness.

As evening arrives, raise a glass to a spectacular orange-red sunset reflected across the water. After dark, the wilderness takes on a completely different character.

Search for nocturnal creatures such as lesser bushbabies, civets and genets, and if you're looking for something truly special, keep an eye out for the elusive pangolin. For an unforgettable night, retreat to a Star Bed high in the trees and fall asleep beneath an incredible canopy of stars while the sounds of the African bush continue below.

Exceptional Wildlife Encounters

Hwange offers some of Africa’s finest year-round wildlife viewing, with the dry season providing particularly rewarding sightings. Wilderness Linkwasha has exclusive access to approximately 34,000 hectares of diverse wilderness across the private Makalolo and Linkwasha concessions.

The landscape encompasses seasonal wetlands, pans, lala palms, teak woodland and open savannah, creating ideal conditions for an extraordinary variety of wildlife. During the dry winter months, 14 solar-hybrid pumped waterholes become essential gathering points, drawing impressive concentrations of animals.

Wilderness Linkwasha Highlights

Located in the wildlife-rich southeastern region of Hwange, Linkwasha provides access to some of the park’s most productive habitats.

Large herds of African elephants and buffalo move through the plains, while roan and sable antelope add to the impressive diversity of plains game. The open grasslands are also hunting grounds for healthy populations of lions, African wild dogs and cheetahs, creating thrilling predator-prey encounters.

When water becomes scarce, wildlife congregates around the pumped pans, offering exceptional opportunities to observe animals interacting in large numbers.

Accommodation

The nine elegant tents blend contemporary comfort with subtle influences from Zimbabwean Ndebele culture. Interiors reflect the natural surroundings through soft, neutral tones, while colourful Ndebele-inspired patterns add character and warmth.

Fresh Ndebele designs appear across the tent interiors, echoing the distinctive homes found in nearby communities. Handmade embroidered cushions and locally produced baskets complement the décor, while the bar area incorporates these traditional influences into its furnishings.

Relax beneath the surrounding leadwood trees or on your private deck overlooking the waterhole, where wildlife activity provides an ever-changing spectacle.

Cuisine

Dining at Linkwasha focuses on fresh, wholesome food prepared to accommodate a range of dietary requirements. Traditional menu evenings introduce guests to authentic Zimbabwean flavours and ingredients.

Highlights may include fire-roasted bread, spicy corn soup, sadza, sugar beans and slow-braised meats, including Zimbabwean beef served with local relish. Dessert might be finished with a rich Amarula chocolate mousse.

Discover Hwange

Covering approximately 14,651 square kilometres, Hwange is Zimbabwe’s largest national park and is roughly half the size of Belgium.

The Linkwasha-Makalolo Private Wilderness Area combines teak forests, golden savannah and Kalahari sands, supporting a remarkable diversity of habitats and wildlife. During summer, the nearby Ngamo Plains become particularly productive, drawing large numbers of plains game and the predators that follow them.

Activities

Game Drives

Explore the plains and teak forests in search of elephants, buffalo, antelope, lions, cheetahs, wild dogs and other wildlife.

Star Bed Sleep-Out

Spend a magical night outdoors on an elevated Star Bed, surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness and an uninterrupted sky filled with stars.

Sunken Hide

Get exceptionally close to wildlife from a concealed sunken hide, offering intimate views without disturbing the animals.

Conservation Experiences

Visit a nearby community to learn about local conservation initiatives and projects designed to support sustainable development and community upliftment.