Gwango Heritage Resort

Elephants drinking from pool were a highlight. Some nicities were missing e.g. soap in communal toilets, hand towels and washcloths in the room, napkins in dining room, formed paths to the rooms

Hwange was wonderful. The lodge is on the more rustic side, but it is super nice. The beds are comfortable. Everything is clean. The showers can be temperamental, but there is plenty of hot water (my brother struggled with the shower in their room and to be fair, the showers did a bit of alternating between hot and cold occasionally). The only complaint might be that the walls are thin. But our group took up the whole section where we were so we weren’t bothering anyone else and no one else could hear us. The food was very good, though there were some menu items which they were out of. Most importantly, the staff were super accommodating. They pulled out the green laser and turned off some lights for us to have a better look at the stars. And Brighton gave the best game drive ever. He knew the animals, the birds, the trees… it was like having a science professor driving the truck.

This place gets the biggest thumbs-up we have ever felt inclined to give in an accommodation review. We spent a week here and have nothing but fantastic memories. Food, chalets, beds, staff, restaurant (limited but wonderful, tasty, healthy food choices), service, incredible game drives, all perfect at a fraction of the price of the fancy Hwange resorts. A bonus is that the wildlife wander freely through the camp, with no fences. Very special to hear the lions roar and hyena call at night, share the swimming pool with thirsty elephants, and to be woken up by a tiny baby elephant rolling in the sand at the chalet door! Lloyd and his lovely wife run a fabulous lodge, with a great team of attentive, happy and helpful staff, from Thulan who picked us up at Vic Falls Airport, Fortune (a great story-teller!) who met us at camp, to Nicholas and Panashe at reception, Alfred at the restaurant, Batina and Omega at the bar, Ntokozo at housekeeping, and last but not least, our knowledgeable, eagle-eyed personal game guide, Ashley (Nomakhozi) for whom nothing was too much trouble, and who made our game and other experiences in and around the Park so memorable. Thank you!

Gwango Heritage sits about 5 minutes drive from the Hwange Main Gate and is within easy reach from Victoria Falls/Airport. Drive about 150km in a straight line passed beautiful Zimbabwean countryside, take a right, then drive circa another 15 minutes and your there Seriously, that easy!! The hotel is much, much better than the two stars it may have. This is a countryside paradise with beautifully presented accommodation in the mist tranquil of settings. The main hotel area has an elevated pool overlooking a waterhole which is visited by herds of elephants. Sun loungers with a lounge area with elegant furniture and comfy sofas. Great WiFi in this area, the main reception and restaurants. Some rooms may pick up WiFi (but I doubt it). Seriously not an issue though. Ate at the hotel for breakfast and dinner. Really enjoyed the food (I'm veggie). Seemed to be enough on the menu for regular dietary considerations too. No need to 'rush out' to the park too early. Gate opens at 7 and you'll virtually drive straight in. No queues like Kruger (just a point worth noting). There are multiple options for game drives that the hotel can organise seamlessly. Rather than a long day from Victoria Falls, stay overnight and do 2 days in Hwange (just a thought). Finally, rooms are very cosy, comfy beds and plenty of hot water. No TV (thankfully) and internet is limited to common areas Not unusual in places that are not 'mainstream'. I would stay here again in a minute and wish I stayed a couple of more days. Thanks to all the really kind and friendly staff who effortlessly made our stay a truly excellent one.

We had such a fabulous time at Gwango! Their staff are top notch and dedicated! We had several game drives with Fortune who kept us entertained all day. He was so committed to showing us the most and we were not disappointed! He knew of many small tracks that led us to obscure pastures full of animals. The cottages are spectacular and spaces all about are beautifully designed and decorated. The price point makes it available for all and we met some very nice people.

The resort is an amazing place. The staff were more than helpful and very friendly. I will be back again. The experience of sitting in the pool whilst an elephant drinks from it is something i wont forget.