A significant feature of Hwange is the absence of permanent surface water. Animals rely heavily on a series of waterholes, many of which dry up completely during drought years. The Friends of Hwange now maintain a number of these waterholes throughout the year thereby ensuring the livelihoods of thousands of animals, and excellent game viewing as wildlife congregates at these points. The landscape is also diverse, dense teak forest in the north gives on to Kalahari sandveld in the south. In between, open grassy plains lined with acacia lie alongside mopane woodland and islands of ilala palms. The seasons, too, impose dramatic changes on the park. During the hot summer rains between December and March the bush becomes lush and the wildlife disperses. Between June and October, the winter months see the bush rapidly dry and thin out, all but a few waterholes remain, and the wildlife is concentrated and easy to spot.
 
Friends Of Hwange
In 2005, a serious drought caused all but a couple of the waterholes in Hwange National Park to dry up. In the absence of any permanent surface water throughout the park, these waterholes are vital to the survival of all animals in the park. That year, over 1000 elephant died along with many thousands of other species. Desperate scenes were witnessed as herds of buffalo and impala, travelling long distances, arrived at a waterhole only to find it dry. All they could do was rest awhile before turning away to search for water elsewhere, or lying down to die. Elephant bullied their way through to hold their trunks at the pumps, depriving smaller animals of any chance to drink. To mitigate this distressing situation in future years, the Friends of Hwange formed a trust to try and keep as many waterholes supplied with water all year round. The Hide Safari Camp is proud to support this endeavour and the other work that Friends of Hwange undertakes. The camp is home to Friends of Hwange staff and helps to raise awareness and funding for the ongoing work.