Chiawa Camp is located within a copse of mahogany trees on the banks of the Zambezi River. It is one of the oldest camps in the Lower Zambezi National Park, having opened originally in 1989, and not coincidentally it occupies one of the very best locations, between the Zambezi and Chowe Rivers. This is a region rich in wildlife, where the game viewing is reliably good throughout the year.
Chiawa is a luxury camp, but it's not overly formal. In fact, it does a good job of combining the relaxed atmosphere of a rustic bush camp with the comforts and amenities of a luxury camp. A few nights' spent here is always a pleasure. The game activities are diverse and very well run, while the camp itself just invites you to relax, whether in the comfort of your private verandah or at the plunge pool and sundeck overlooking the Zambezi River. You can also take in the view from the bar and lounge which occupies the top floor in the double storey main building. Alternatively, in a hidden corner of camp there is a viewing hide situated in a mahogany tree from where you can watch the Zambezi go by.
NB. Chiawa Camp is only open for seven months each year, between April and November, as this region of the Lower Zambezi sees exceptionally heavy rainfall during the green season.
Accommodation
There are nine tents at Chiawa, accommodating no more than 16 guests at a time. A majority of the tents overlook the Zambezi River, though some of the newer tents instead overlook the Chowe River (this is dry for much of the year and sees less game). The tents are spaced reasonably far apart and accessed privately via the back, ensuring a good level of privacy. They open out at the front onto a private veranda, and all have been carefully positioned to ensure a good view.
The tents are raised on wooden platforms. They're very spacious, with a large bedroom and lounge leading into an en-suite bathroom and dressing area with bathtub and shower (hot and cold running water). The design is stylish but not excessive, with dark mahogany furniture. The tents have king-size beds.
There is a single luxury honeymoon tent.
Dining
Excellent cuisine can be enjoyed al fresco on the veranda or privately on a nearby island. Bush breakfasts and picnic lunches can be provided for full-day game activities.
Special dietary requirements can be catered for.
Facilities
- Plunge pool
- Lounge and bar
- Veranda
- Viewing hide
Activities
- Day and night game drives
- Bush walks
- River safaris
- Game viewing
- Canoeing
- Tiger Fishing
Child Policy
Children aged 12 and over can be accommodated at Chiawa. Do keep in mind that the camp is unfenced and in a region of the park that sees a lot of wildlife. While all of the lodge buildings are raised and generally very safe, even older children shouldn't be unaccompanied.
Environmental Policy
Chiawa Camp is involved in a number of conservation projects to protect the Lower Zambezi River and the wildlife that resides there, including Conservation Lower Zambezi, of which it is a founding member.
