Somalisa

By road from Victoria Falls, Somalisa is a 200km (124m) drive which takes up to 4 hours, however, you can choose to fly in around 45 minutes.

Yes, children are welcome at Somalisa Camp. The camp provides a family-friendly environment with several features and activities tailored to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for younger guests. Key highlights include:

• Family Tents: Spacious family tents are available, providing comfortable accommodation for families with children.
• Child-Friendly Activities: Special activities and programmes are designed for children, including guided bush walks, nature lessons, and interactive wildlife experiences.
• Childcare Services: Babysitting services can be arranged to allow parents some time to relax and enjoy the camp’s amenities.
• Safety Briefings: Families with children receive thorough safety briefings to ensure everyone understands the rules and guidelines for staying safe in the wild.
• Educational Experiences: The camp offers educational opportunities for children to learn about wildlife, conservation, and the environment in an engaging and hands-on manner.

Somalisa Camp is a member of The Long Run, a global organisation dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism. As a member, Somalisa adheres to the 4Cs framework (Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce), which guides their sustainability efforts and ensures a holistic approach to responsible tourism.

Key components of their sustainability program include:

• Eco-Friendly Accommodations: Somalisa features solar-powered tents equipped with energy-efficient lighting and appliances, reducing the camp’s carbon footprint.
• Water Conservation: The camp utilises innovative water-saving technologies, including water-efficient fixtures and a greywater recycling system, to conserve this precious resource.
• Waste Management: A strict waste management policy is in place, focusing on reducing, reusing, and recycling waste to minimise environmental impact.
• Wildlife Conservation: Somalisa actively participates in wildlife conservation efforts, including anti-poaching initiatives and habitat restoration projects, to protect the diverse species within Hwange National Park.
• Community Support: The camp supports local communities through employment opportunities, educational initiatives, and healthcare programmes. They also engage with local artisans and suppliers to promote sustainable economic development.
• Environmental Education: Guests are educated on the importance of conservation and sustainable practices through informative sessions and interactive activities, encouraging a greater appreciation for the environment.

• Elephants: Hwange National Park is famous for its large elephant population. Elephants frequently visit the camp’s waterholes, providing close-up viewing opportunities.
• Lions: These majestic predators are commonly seen, with several prides inhabiting the area around Somalisa.
• Leopards: Although elusive, leopards are occasionally spotted, often seen resting in trees or stealthily moving through the bush.
• Buffalo: Large herds of buffalo roam the park, often seen grazing in open grasslands or near water sources.
• Wild Dogs: Hwange is one of the best places to see African wild dogs, also known as painted wolves, which are critically endangered.
• Giraffes: Tall and graceful, giraffes are frequently observed feeding on acacia trees throughout the park.
• Zebras: Plains zebras are commonly seen in large groups, often in the company of other herbivores.
• Various Antelope Species: Including impala, kudu, waterbuck, sable, and eland, providing a diverse array of sightings.
• Hyenas: Spotted hyenas are often heard at night and can sometimes be seen during the day, especially near lion kills.
• Birds: Hwange boasts over 400 bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Notable species include the martial eagle, southern ground hornbill, and carmine bee-eater.
• Hippos and Crocodiles: Found in the park’s water bodies, these aquatic animals can be seen during game drives and walking safaris.