Linkwasha Travel Guide

Linkwasha is not a conventional city or town. It is a remote safari destination — specifically a small, exclusive camp area — located within the Linkwasha Concession in Hwange National Park, Matabeleland North Province, Zimbabwe. Any references to it as a "city" are a misclassification; there is no urban settlement, municipality, or public infrastructure here in the traditional sense.

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's largest national park and one of the most significant wildlife reserves in southern Africa. The Linkwasha Concession covers a private area within its southeastern sector, known for some of the highest elephant densities on the continent. The landscape shifts between open vlei grasslands, mopane woodland, and teak forest, offering diverse habitat and outstanding game viewing.

Because Linkwasha operates as a private concession, access and accommodation are managed exclusively through licensed safari operators. Independent travelers cannot simply drive in and explore freely. Planning well in advance — and working through established operators or travel agents — is essential for a visit.

Visas

Zimbabwe has its own entry requirements that vary by nationality. Do not rely on this guide for specific visa rules. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section and consult the official Zimbabwe Immigration Department website for current, authoritative requirements before travel.

Health

Malaria is present in Hwange. Consult a travel medicine clinic well before departure regarding prophylaxis and vaccinations relevant to Zimbabwe. Yellow fever vaccination may be required depending on your country of origin or transit — verify with your doctor and the official health authority. Bring adequate supplies of any personal medication, as there are no pharmacies or medical facilities within the concession.

What to Pack

• Neutral-toned, lightweight clothing suitable for warm days and cool early mornings and evenings
• High-quality insect repellent and sunscreen
• Binoculars and a camera with a long lens
• Any personal medication in sufficient quantity for your stay plus contingency days
• A headlamp or torch
• Cash in accepted currencies (verify with your operator before travel)

International Access

Most international visitors arrive in Zimbabwe via Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare or Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport in Bulawayo. Both cities are served by a range of regional and international carriers. Verify current routes and schedules directly with airlines or your travel agent, as connectivity changes.

Reaching Linkwasha

Linkwasha Concession is most commonly reached by light aircraft charter. There is an airstrip within or adjacent to the concession that safari operators use for guest transfers, typically from Victoria Falls or Hwange Town airstrips. Road access from Hwange Town exists but is lengthy and requires a suitable 4x4 vehicle; conditions vary significantly by season. In virtually all cases, your safari operator will coordinate transfers as part of your booking package — confirm logistics directly with them.

Important Note

There is no scheduled public transport to Linkwasha. This is strictly a fly-in or operator-arranged destination.

Movement within the Linkwasha Concession is conducted exclusively on guided game drives in open safari vehicles operated by trained, licensed guides. Walking safaris may be available depending on the operator and season — confirm in advance.

Guests do not self-drive within the concession. This is both a safety requirement and a condition of the private concession arrangement with Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority. All activities are scheduled and led by camp staff.

Transfers between Linkwasha and other destinations (such as Victoria Falls or Mana Pools) are typically arranged by your operator, usually by light aircraft.

Accommodation within the Linkwasha Concession is limited to a small number of high-end tented safari camps. By design, the concession operates on a low-volume, high-quality model to minimize environmental impact and maximize the exclusivity of the wildlife experience. Camp capacity is intentionally small.

One well-known operator in the area is Wilderness Safaris, which has historically operated a camp called Linkwasha Camp within the concession — however, verify current operational status, pricing, and availability directly with the operator or a registered Zimbabwe safari agent, as camps in this region occasionally undergo refurbishment or changes in management.

There are no guesthouses, budget lodges, hostels, or self-catering facilities within the concession. Budget-conscious travelers should plan a broader Hwange itinerary that incorporates camps at different price points elsewhere in the park.

Wildlife Viewing

The primary draw of Linkwasha is exceptional game viewing. The concession's open vlei (grassland) plains and permanent water points attract extraordinary concentrations of wildlife during the dry season, particularly large elephant herds — Hwange is home to one of Africa's largest elephant populations. Lion, leopard, wild dog (an endangered species for which Hwange has a notable population), buffalo, giraffe, zebra, and a wide range of antelope species are regularly recorded.

Birding

Hwange supports over 400 recorded bird species. The Linkwasha area is considered rewarding for birders at all levels, from raptors to woodland specialists.

Night Drives

Depending on operator and current park regulations, night game drives may be available within the private concession, offering opportunities to observe nocturnal species not visible during daylight hours.

Walking Safaris

Armed walking safaris led by qualified professional guides may be available. These offer a more immersive and sensory experience of the bush. Confirm availability with your operator.

Connectivity

Mobile phone coverage within the Linkwasha Concession is extremely limited to nonexistent. Do not rely on your phone for navigation, communication, or emergencies. Camps typically have satellite-based communication for emergencies.

Power

Electricity supply in camps is generally from solar or generator systems and may be available only at certain hours. Bring a universal adapter and be prepared for limited charging opportunities.

Currency and Payments

Within the concession there is effectively nothing to purchase independently — meals, activities, and transfers are typically included in your all-inclusive rate. Verify exactly what is and is not included with your operator before departure. Gratuities for guides and camp staff are customary; carry appropriate cash.

Emergency Services

There are no emergency services, hospitals, or clinics within the concession. Evacuation in a medical emergency would require coordination through the camp and potentially medical evacuation by air. Travel insurance that explicitly covers emergency medical evacuation is strongly recommended — consider this non-negotiable for a remote bush destination of this type.

Wildlife Safety

Linkwasha is unfenced wilderness. Large and potentially dangerous animals — including elephant, lion, buffalo, hippo, and leopard — move freely through and around camp. Always follow guide and camp staff instructions precisely. Never walk unescorted between tent and common areas after dark without a guide or staff escort.

General Safety

As a private concession with managed access, the immediate area tends to be stable and low in crime. However, travelers should review current government travel advisories for Zimbabwe issued by their home country before travel, as national context can affect travel decisions.

Travel Insurance

Given the remote location, the absence of medical facilities, and the cost of light aircraft evacuation, comprehensive travel insurance including emergency evacuation cover is essential. Verify your policy covers activities such as game drives and walking safaris.

The Linkwasha area is within a national park concession and does not have a resident local community on-site. The broader Hwange district is home to Ndebele-speaking communities, and many camp staff come from surrounding areas.

Respectful interaction with staff is important. Ask before photographing any individual. Tipping is a meaningful source of income for guides and camp employees; ask your operator for guidance on customary amounts rather than guessing.

Conservation is central to the ethos of the concession. Travelers are expected to adhere to responsible wildlife viewing principles: maintaining appropriate distances, minimizing noise, and not pursuing or disturbing animals. Follow your guide's lead at all times.