Description
Chongwe River Camp is nestled under a complete canopy of huge winterthorn acacias, in an area where elephants are more numerous than people - there are no fences and the animals have complete right of way! Occupying a unique and unrivalled location the camp is located directly opposite Mana Pools and looks onto the confluence of the Chongwe channel and the Zambezi River with the mountains of the escarpment to the north. The Chongwe channel is perfect for canoe trips as it is relatively free of hippos and strong currents.
All eight large, well appointed Mulati tents are kept cool by their thatched roofs and situated under a canopy of albida thorns, surrounded by lawns with stunning river views. They have recently been upgraded and offer superb accommodation. The open-air en-suite bathrooms mean guests can shower both under the stars and in the early morning sunshine. Game including elephant, lion, hippo and buffalo – amongst many others – can sometimes all be viewed from your tent!
In 2007, Chongwe opened the Albida suite - designed by the same architect who designed the Chongwe River House, this superb suite has two bedrooms and is perfect for families or two couples travelling together. It is situated in a perfect position away from the main camp and with beautiful river views, while remaining secluded and private. Each of the tented rooms has a separate en-suite bathroom with his and hers sinks, twin showers and a claw-foot bath.
The rooms share a very comfortable and stylish lounge complete with a dining area (although you can take your meals either at camp or in the suite), a bar, your own camp fire and a refreshing plunge pool. The design is eclectic - much in the same style as Chongwe River House, the walls are organic and flowing without a single straight line in sight. The overall effect is one of stylish relaxation.
In 2008, Chongwe opened the supremely luxurious Cassia suite, designed along the same lines as the Albida, with a private living area and plunge pool. The Cassia has been specifically designed for honeymoon couples, a perfect private and intimate hideaway.
Activities offered at Chongwe are varied, from day and night 4WD game drives in open vehicles, walking safaris with your guide and an armed parks scout, to river activities including canoeing and gentler trips in the larger motor boats. You could also choose to take a full day drive into the park if you wish - Chongwe is situated just outside the park boundary in the Game Management area but still in a very game rich area. Or you can try your hand at fishing, on a 'catch and release' basis - tiger fish are a speciality and the guides at Chongwe are all expert fishermen.
Accommodation
There are 9 tents which are airy and spacious, with either a king sized or two single beds with cotton linens, local textiles and hand-crafted furniture blending seamlessly with organic fittings and fixtures, all designed to make the most of what Mother Nature has provided, including the incredible views. All of the tents are under thatch, ensuring maximum coolness in the heat of the day. Each has a large outdoor bathroom with hot and cold running water, shower, toilet, vanity unit and dressing area with a wardrobe and full-length mirror. The tents also have their own private verandahs overlooking the river, making them an ideal place for relaxing between safaris.
There are two tented suites which are luxuriously self-contained one which sleeps 2 and the other sleeps 4 guests in two spacious, octagonal bedrooms set on either side of a private dining room and lounge area with its own bar fridge, plunge pool and fire pit. It is ideal for families or friends travelling together.
Childcare
There are no specific child care facilities but children over 8 years are welcome. Food and meal times can be adjusted to suit younger guests and babysitting may be provided on request.
Facilities
The camp has a plunge pool for guests to enjoy between safaris.
Activities
At Chongwe River Camp, activities are tailored to make the most of this incredibly diverse wilderness. Game viewing can be done from a vehicle in either the Lower Zambezi National Park or the Chiawa Partnership Park or, if you prefer, from a boat on the Zambezi. Canoeing, walking and, of course, fishing, are also offered. And for those interested in the rich cultural heritage of the area, community visits can be arranged.
Services
The Albida and Cassia Suites each have their own butler, and meals can be taken either in private in the suite’s dining area or at the main camp.
When to travel
The Lower Zambezi has a moderate to sub-tropical climate with three distinct seasons: from November to March is the Emerald, or the rainy season, April to July is Zambia's winter, when the weather is cool and dry, and August to October is summer, when the weather is hot and dry. In terms of game viewing, the dryer months, meaning a higher concentration of game at the permanent water sources, are a superb time to visit. Alternatively come for some superb birdwatching at the end of the rains.
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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia
Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia
How to get there
10 hour international flight to Lusaka followed by a one hour flight by llight aircraft and then 20 minutes by road to camp.
