Zambia - Chiawa Camp

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Chiawa Camp Zambia Safari Resting peacefully on the riverbank, in a grove of mahogany and acacia trees, the lodge is constructed essentially of natural material, and is designed to ensure its idyllic setting can be fully appreciated.

All tents are under thatch, have en-suite facilities with hot & cold running water, twin or double beds, insect screens a solar powered lighting. Sixteen guests can be accommodated in 8 well-appointed safari tents, each on a raised timber deck with private veranda. Access paths to the tents run through a grove of Mahogany trees behind them, maximizing privacy. The honeymoon suite has a beautiful private view of the Zambezi, the escarpment and the Chiawa River bed. The spacious lounge and bar area has an observation platform built into its roof, providing one of the best views in the valley.

Of course the dining area also looks out onto the river and the animals, which regularly come to drink and feed at and near the lodge. Enjoy barbeques under the stars on the al-fresco dining veranda, while your hosts oversee your comfort and the preparation of Chiawa's renowned cuisine. After dinner, retire to the campfire and enjoy a cocktail or two while taking in the sound and magic of the African night. Another viewing platform has been constructed in the quietest corner of the lodge, overlooking the confluence of the Chiawa and Zambezi rivers. Sip cup of tea or a Pimm's while watching nature move at nature's pace and savour the tranquillity of Real Africa.

Chiawa Camp Zambia Safari Chiawa Camp maintains a sufficient infrastructure that ensures maximum efficiency and flexibility. This means that guests will enjoy levels of choice and convenience not found elsewhere. The guides at Chiawa Camp are experienced and qualified to help you get the most from your visit to the Lower Zambezi National Park. Game drives are the most efficient way to view big game. Drives are conducted in open 4wd Toyota Land Cruisers that have been specially adapted for safari use. Usually departing in the early morning, drives can last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours depending on what's seen and the requirements of the guests.

In the late afternoon drives set off for an hour of so before stopping at a scenic point for sundowners. Once the sun has set and it's dark enough for the powerful spotlights to become effective, night drives commence. This is an opportunity to see nocturnal creatures such a civet, porcupine, genet and also to see some of the larger predators on the move. It is not uncommon to see a pride of lions on a kill or a leopard stalking through the bush.

Bush walks are essentially a "micro safari". An armed ranger will guide you through the wilderness of foot, interpreting spoor, identifying the various flora and fauna, and highlighting conservation issues. The pace is leisurely and the duration is determined by guests' requirements. Typically, a few hours are sufficient.

One of the great aspects of a visit to Chiawa Camp are the activities offered by virtue of its presence on the Zambezi River. Chiawa Camp is one of the few lodges permitted to conduct waterborne safaris within the National Park. Enjoy midday cruises through numerous channels, viewing hippo, buffalo, elephant and prolific bird life. Also on offer are sunset cruises, or breakfast served in the middle of the Zambezi.

Expert guides are on hand to assist you in finding the notorious tiger fish (camp record 8.75kg, average 2kg) and other species that abound in the Zambezi River. Chiawa Camp is currently the only lodge offering professionally guided sport fishing inside the Lower Zambezi National Park.

These waters are free from netting and are hence your best bet for lots of big fish. Naturally a strict catch and release policy is enforced. Best months for tiger fish are September - November. Boats used are 5m tri-hulls. Guide, fuel and tackle are provided, however it is recommend that serious sports fishermen bring their own gear. Medium-heavy action 20lb spinning or bait casting rods/reels work best. Wire leader is essential, as are good quality sharp hooks attached to bright, shiny spinners and spoons.

Although the Zambezi offers many activities, perhaps it is best know for canoeing. Nowhere else is there such a combination of breathtaking scenery, varied wildlife and such interesting channels to paddle through. Tranquil yet exciting, these trips through waters such as the Chifungulu Channel are an excellent way to best appreciate the Zambezi.

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