CAMP ROBINS

Much less rugged than the Sinamatella area, in this northeastern part of Hwange Park the hills and valleys are lined with thorny bushes and small mopane trees. The Deka River flows through the area. The river flows close to Robins Camp. The river is a favorite place for buffalo herds, but also for species such as roan antelope and reedbuck. This part of Hwange National Park is also (according to local guides) a favorite hunting ground for lions. Cheetahs, who love the grassy plains, can also be found here. Leopards (though more numerous in the rocky escarpments of Sinamatella) also roam these parts, while hyenas are quite invasive. In Robins camp, signs warn distracted tourists that hyenas eat everything and that it is therefore highly recommended not to leave any pots, pans or shoes lying around outside. This camp is also distinguished by its square tower housing a restaurant, but originally built to serve as an astronomical observatory. Robins was named after Herbert Robins, a colourful member of the Royal Geographical Society, who mysteriously washed up in this remote corner of southern Africa to contemplate the stars. Eager to improve the comfort of his daily life, Herbert Robins donated in 1934, in exchange for a new house equipped with a water supply, two game farms which were transformed into hideouts and observatories. The astronomer died 5 years later and is buried 100 m from the arch at the entrance to the camp, near a small pond. There are fewer ponds and artificial lakes than in Sinamatella or Main Camp. Little Toms and Big Toms are nevertheless provided with observatory hideouts and the Deteema waterhole, or the crocodile pools are worth a visit. Near the latter are large boulders that are actually the remains of a petrified forest fossilized by time. Millions of years ago, the north of the current Hwange Park was indeed covered with forests and swamps, which would explain the presence of huge coal deposits discovered in this part of the country. It is possible to do the same walking safaris around Robins as in Sinamatella. Half-day, full-day or multi-day tours can be booked through the Central Office of National Parks.