Luxury Tented Camp
Zimbabwe

Somalisa
Hwange National Park

Somalisa, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Somalisa, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Somalisa, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Somalisa, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Highlights

  • Luxury Tented Accommodation: Somalisa offers elegantly designed tents featuring en-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers, private decks, and stunning views of the African bush. The tents blend classic safari style with modern comfort, ensuring a luxurious stay.
  • Prime Wildlife Viewing: Situated in Hwange National Park, Somalisa provides exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities where you can witness a diverse array of animals, including large herds of elephants, prides of lions, elusive leopards, buffalo, and various antelope species, all in their natural habitat.
  • Eco-Friendly Practices: Somalisa is dedicated to sustainability, employing eco-friendly practices such as solar power for electricity, efficient water usage, and waste management systems. The camp’s design and operations are crafted to minimise environmental impact while providing a high level of comfort.
  • Elephant Pool: One of Somalisa’s unique features is the elephant pool, where elephants frequently come to drink and bathe. This provides guests with the rare opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close, often from the comfort of the camp’s lounge or dining area.
  • Cultural Interactions: Somalisa offers cultural tours and interactions with local communities, allowing guests to learn about the traditions, customs, and daily lives of the people in the region. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage and foster a connection between guests and the local community.

Good to know

How to get there

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.

Are children welcome?

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.

Giving back

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.

Wildlife are you likely to see

  • 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.

Why we love Somalisa

It has to be the unique elephant pool, where you can watch elephants drink and play up close, creating unforgettable, intimate wildlife moments. It’s definitely the best place to spend a lazy afternoon.

Aisha Gross

Specialises in

Africa and the Indian Ocean
Somalisa, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

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