Chongwe River Camp

Chongwe River Camp is situated on the confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi River, just outside the western boundary of the Lower Zambezi National Park. One of the most picturesque locations of any of the camps in the valley.

Chongwe River Camp looks onto the confluence of the Zambezi and Chongwe rivers with the mountains of the escarpment to the north.

A lovely relaxed and natural setting, with no fences so the animals have complete right of way, this is one of our favourite camps anywhere for its unpretentious approach and ambiant atmosphere.

The camps main lounge and bar area is covered by two huge marque-style canvas roofs suspended from the trees. This is a really cool place to relax and the style and colours of the furnishings works perfectly. Next to the bar is the outside dining and campfire areas which overlook the camps jetty.

The eight rooms are large, well appointed Mulati tents under thatch, with an open air bathroom ensuite. Situated under a canopy of Albida thorns and surrounded by cool lawns, they all command fabulous views towards to river. The furnishings are simple with a natural ivory and brown colour scheme whilst the mesh windows and open fronts keep the whole space light and airy.

The fabulous Albidia suite is made up of two customer designed octagonal tents with organic ferro walling interspersed with natural wood. The bathrooms have a canvas roof but are open to the bush with a bath, double basins and double shower. One shower is under cover and one is open air. The two rooms share a lounge and dining area appointed with fine furniture and antiques that overlook a private pool and the Zambezi.

The Cassia Suite is built in a similar style to the Albidia suite but with only one tented room, lounge and private pool set at the edge of the river.

All the usual and expected safari activities are available here with highly knowledgeable and professional guides providing an exhilarating, safe and informative experience. Activities include game drives, including night drives in the National Park or along the Chongwe River, walking safaris, boat cruising, fishing and canoeing.

We visited Chongwe River Camp in October 2009 and it continues to be our favourite option in the Lower Zambezi area. It really is wonderful.