Chiawa Camp is family owned and operated and said to be the best all round safari camp in Africa. It is in the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia and offers a premier, luxury safari.
Varied activities such as game drives, walking, canoeing, boating, and fishing in the presence of Africa’s finest guides. With a fascinating history and conservation background too. Chiawa Camp lives up to its reputation for imaginative delivery and consistently high standards in all aspects. Exceptional guiding and wildlife. A friendly and unpretentious atmosphere, personalized and efficient service, great accommodation, and fabulous cuisine. A wonderful variety of safari activities, excellent vehicles, and boats, make for an unsurpassed safari.
Enjoy gorgeous “tents” and a spectacular setting with leopards, lions, elephants, hippos, and other wildlife as your neighbors. Chiawa Camp also has a gorgeous pool and fitness shack. Both overlooking the Zambezi River. There are also 2 x viewing hides and viewing platforms for the use of all guests.
It is part of the Chiawa Safaris brand. This also includes Old Mondoro (Lower Zambezi) and Puku Ridge in the South Luangwa National Park. Evident throughout every aspect of these three different but complementary safari camps is a strong conservation ethos and a commitment to the local community.
Each tent naturally blends in respectfully with its sensational surroundings. Overlooking the Zambezi River with locally crafted furniture including hanging lampshades.
Safari Tents I-VI are along the Zambezi riverfront with bathrooms to the rear. Tents VII & VIII are sideways onto the river. While the Safari Suite, Tent IX, is ideal for honeymooners or families. It is the most private, spacious, and luxurious.
Safari Tents (x 8)
Each tent is about 100 sq meters in area. Comprising canvas roof (TVII & TVIII have thatched roofs), and canvas walls with screen windows. A super king sized bed can split into 2 x oversized single beds. All under a massive mosquito net within which spins a cooling electric fan. A lounge area with another fan and the option for an third bed or bunk bed for younger families.
The en-suite bathroom has a ball & claw bath, his and hers double vanity/washbasins, an indoor loo and shower. There is a large changing area with ample storage for luggage and his & hers closets. A vanity desk with hairdryer, a writing desk and numerous international plug points with USB ports. And lighting, lots of it, for mood and function!
The tents open onto the shaded veranda which features an outdoor “waterfall” shower, and a dining table for two. Comfy leather reclining safari chairs and the piece de resistance – Chiawa Camp’s very own “bench wallow”. In cool weather, it is a sunken lounge area. In hot weather, a plunge pool on demand fills after just a couple of minutes at the turn of a tap. And empties at the push of a button.
Bench wallow
The unpretentious luxury tents at Chiawa Camp, offer ample comforts, conveniences, and unexpected luxuries. Complemented by high quality, Eco-friendly amenities.
Lower Zambezi accommodation
The Safari Suite (x 1)
Tent IX, the Safari Suite, of almost 220 square meters, redefines luxury safari accommodation for Zambia. Perched about 3 elephants high above the Zambezi and its flood plains. With the most commanding view in the Lower Zambezi. The Safari Suite is ideal for honeymooners, families or any couple looking for more space, luxury and privacy.
It is slightly removed and secluded from the rest of camp with a massive king bedroom. And a lounge with couches, arm chairs and daybeds. This can convert easily into a second bedroom for families. The en-suite bathroom has a ball & claw bath, his and hers washbasins, with views to the Zambezi. The bathroom also has a loo, and a walk-in shower. All opening onto a massive deck with private dining facilities, and more lounge furniture. And a 16 square meter private plunge pool and gazebo with outdoor shower.
Four overhead fans and international plug points with 24/7 power and free WiFi make the Safari Suite a retreat that is difficult to leave, even for the amazing game viewing and guiding.
Safari Suite
Family Safari at Chiawa Camp
Children 8 years and over are welcome at Chiawa Camp. The tents can sleep up to 2 adults and 2 children. The Safari Suite can accommodate children from 5 years. However, children younger than 8 are requested to refrain from public areas unless the camp is booked exclusively.
Children must be 12 years and older to do walking and canoe safaris.
Lower Zambezi National Park
The Lower Zambezi National Park, by virtue of the Zambezi River and its parallel escarpment, is one of Africa’s most scenic wildernesses. In comparison to typical African safaris, the Lower Zambezi safari experiences are unique. More remote, more exclusive, and experiential in nature. For safari experiences viewed not only on land based activities, but also on a variety of water based activities. It is home to an impressive quantity and variety of wildlife.
Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro are located in the middle of prime wildlife and habitat zones of the Lower Zambezi National Park. Guests do not have to travel far to see wildlife. What’s more, often wildlife make their way into camp. Providing out of this world game sightings. Wildlife encountered includes elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, waterbuck, hippos and crocodiles.
Game drive vehicles
The game drive vehicles are specially adapted open 4wd vehicles with comfy seats, and pockets to stow your gear. Plus, of course, bean bags to steady your camera for those all important photos. Although vehicles with canopies are available upon request, we suggest going open! Canopies interfere with the overall safari experience. The views of the trees and birds during the day. And at night the stars, aside from leopards feeding in the trees. Game drive vehicles have 3 bench seats with a back rest and a foot rest for each, so up to 6 guests can each travel comfortably with a ‘window seat’. However, Chiawa Camp typically allow a maximum of 4 guests per vehicle.
The vehicles have cooler boxes and first aid kits. They all have a VHF radio for safety and for the guides to share news of interesting sightings.
Chiawa Camp Activities ↓
Explore the safari activities below. All of which are included during your unforgettable stay at Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro.
Game drives
Game drives can last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. This is depending on what’s seen and the requirements of the guests. The early morning drives catch the bush coming to life. And can be a good time to find how successful predators have been after a night of hunting. A mid morning coffee stop, perhaps watching a pod of hippos. In the late afternoon drives set off for an hour or so before stopping at a scenic point for sundowners.
Hippos
Once the sun has set, night drives continue. Zambia is one of the few countries that permit night drives. Perhaps the most interesting of all safari activities. They use filtered spotlights, which do not interfere with the well being and behavior of wildlife. Making it much easier on your eyes too. This is an opportunity to see nocturnal creatures such as civet, porcupine, and 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. These drives last as long as they need to.
Lions with vehicle
Bush walks
A walking safari is the purest safari experience. And often the most thrilling! Pioneered in Zambia, bush walks are essentially a “micro safari”. You don’t cover as much area than in a vehicle. But you get a better understanding of the Eco-system and the circle of life.
An armed ranger and qualified and experienced pro guide will guide you through the wilderness on foot. Interpreting spoor, identifying the various flora and fauna, and highlighting conservation issues. Elephants and buffalo are seen on most walks and sometimes the big cats. So expect anything at anytime. The pace is leisurely. Flexibility on duration so guests determine this. Typically, a few hours are sufficient.
Lion cubs
Canoe Safari
Trade land for the mighty river with a canoe safari experience. Drifting in near silence past birds, crocs and a variety of mammals makes for a time to remember. No where else is there such a combination of breathtaking scenery, varied wildlife and such interesting channels to paddle through.
Canoe safaris may last anywhere from 1 hour to 1 day. The most popular is the 90 minute trip where guests paddle (always downstream!) from the lodge to “Sunset Strip”. Enjoy sundowners and then a night game drive back to Chiawa Camp. Please note: Canoe safaris are river level dependent.
Canoe safari
River safaris
One of the great aspects of a visit to Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro is the variety of activities offered by virtue of it’s presence on the Zambezi river.
The river safaris are in custom built, motorized pontoons with a canopy that can be raised or lowered according to circumstance. They are powered by near silent, environmentally sensitive 4-stroke outboard motors. Thus, each river safari gives guests the opportunity to see more of the river and perhaps more Zambian wildlife by being able to cover more area. And in more comfort and safety than a canoe.
Enjoy morning or afternoon cruises exploring numerous channels. While viewing hippo, buffalo, elephant and prolific bird life. You never know what to expect, coming across fish eagles, herons, perhaps a buffalo lurking in the reeds. You’ll see crocs and hippos sunning themselves, or elephants crossing the river. This is a relaxing way to enjoy wildlife viewing all the while in awe of the scenery. As the sun sets, your guide will pour your cocktails of choice. And serve you snacks before gently motoring back to camp. Or dropping you off at a waiting 4×4 to take you on a night drive.
Boating safari
Tiger Fishing
Tiger fishing on the Zambezi is recommended by authoritative anglers and in publications such as The Best Fly Fishing Trips Money Can Buy. And Forbes Traveler. Expert guides are on hand to assist you in finding the notorious tiger fish which are caught on fly or conventional tackle.
The best time to catch them is from late August to mid November during the hotter months. However, tiger fish and other species can be caught throughout the Zambian safari season. Netting and killing of any fish is not permitted within the National Park. And a 100% catch & release applies for all species.
Tigerfish
The Star Drift
Zambia’s most romantic and luxurious sleep out. Ideal for romantic honeymoons, anniversaries, any special occasion or even for those “just because” moments!
Imagine a private, four course dinner served to you while drifting on the Zambezi River, under the stars. After your dinner, your private boat will deliver you to Chiawa Camp’s luxurious Star Bed Tower. A hot bath will have been run for you and a bottle of delicious bubbly on ice will be waiting. Then drift off to sleep, under the incredible night sky, in this wildest of locations with camp on call nearby.
The star bed tower has a sumptuous Queen size bed under mosquito netting, a bath tub, loo, wash basin and mirror. The side tables have red filtered flashlights to see what’s around and a 2-way radio for just in case.
Star Bed with Drift dinner
A continental breakfast with a selection of teas and a pot of freshly pressed coffee will be delivered to you at a wake up time of your choosing. After which you can go right out on safari or return to your tent.
Top tip: the ground floor boasts a superb photographic hide. Perfect to just sit and watch whatever wildlife comes down for a drink.
Star Bed Photo Hide
Dining at Chiawa Camp
Dining at Chiawa Camp is a culinary experience not to be missed. The varied menus, the paired wines, the presentation, the great company and of course the location. All this changes all the time so prepare to be surprised as well as delighted.
Its excellent Afro/Euro fusion cuisine suites most palates. From simple to complex. Menus and recipes have been enhanced over time with a view to balance health, variety and some indulgence. You are on holiday after all!
Meals are prepared with the freshest of ingredients and with the utmost care. Vegetarians, vegans, gluten free, and lactose intolerant diets are all well catered to with advance notice. Some of the gluten free breads are world class, and said to be better than you would find in many specialist delis overseas.
Depending on the time of year and the day’s activities, breakfasts, brunches and lunches are served plated. Or hot and cold buffet style. Usually al-fresco, sometimes in the bush, and even on a boat in the middle of the Zambezi!
Floating lunch on the Zambezi
Afternoon tea with sweet and savory snacks is usually overlooking the river and just prior to the afternoon safari activities. Dinners are multiple courses, and usually under the stars or by the camp fire.
Responsible Tourism
Although by no means perfect, Chiawa Safaris is leading the way in Zambia in responsible tourism. And making sure that future generations will inherit a better planet and be able to see the wildlife and scenes that we enjoy today.
The owner of Chiawa Safaris, Grant Cumings, is a founding member and Trustee of Conservation Lower Zambezi (CLZ). A non-profit organization committed to the protection of the wildlife and habitat of the Lower Zambezi National Park and the surrounding Chiawa Game Management Area. Chiawa Safaris’ basic ethos is to consider communities as stakeholders and ultimate beneficiaries of conservation and Eco-tourism.
Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro were Africa’s first carbon neutral certified safari camps. Through their initiative, other camps joined in making the Lower Zambezi NP Africa’s first Carbon Neutral national park. This has now spread to the South Luangwa where other camps too are achieving Carbon Neutrality. So, what does this mean exactly? This means that the carbon emissions of their camps, including all logistical/supply/conservation activities and even domestic flights of their guests and management, have been carefully calculated and that these emissions are offset through the purchase of internationally verified Carbon Credits through BioCarbon Partners.
Every stay contributes through: Guest pay a Park, Conservation and Carbon Fee. Staying at Chiawa Safaris supports Conservation Lower Zambezi. Which funds environmental education and essential conservation in the area. Taking part in safari activities in the area, together with contributed funds, supports anti-poaching efforts. Practicing only catch and release tiger fishing on the Zambezi River. Supporting a camp which employs more than 70 local Zambians. Who in turn support another 500 individuals. Choosing to stay at a camp which has a Carbon Neutral, Silver status.
Best time to visit Chiawa Camp
Chiawa Camp is open from 1st May to 14th November each year. This is when there is little rainfall and low humidity. Shoulder Season: 1st May – 30th June & 16th October – 14th November Peak Season: 1st July – 15th October
Lower Zambezi Seasons & Wildlife Calendar
Daily Avg Temperature °C
Rainfall
Wildlife & Scenery
May
27°C Cooler AM/PM
0 mm
Flowers bloom, very green landscapes great for photography contrast with wildlife
June
Predators abound making for excellent sightings of hunting
Lower water levels great for canoeing, Tiger Fishing at its peak time
Getting to Chiawa Camp
Jeki (JEK) airstrip services Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro
Fly: From Lusaka Airport or Mfuwe, both camps are serviced by flights into Jeki Airstrip. Boat & Drive: From Jeki it is a safari transfer by vehicle and boat to access both camps. Between camps is a very scenic 60 to 90 min boat transfer. This depends on stops you may make to view wildlife.
Chat with us to arrange these and any other transfers.
Chiawa Camp Accommodation Rates
2024
Safari Tent Rates
1st July – 15th October 2024
16th October – 14th November 2024
Per adult sharing
US$ 1 700
US$ 1 255
1st child (8 – 17 yrs) sharing with 1 or 2 x adults
US$ 575*
Safari Suite Rates
1st July – 15th October 2024
16th October – 14th November 2024
Per adult sharing (min 2)
US$ 2 025
US$ 1 560
Per additional adult
US$ 1 400
US$ 945
Per child (5 – 17 yrs)
US$ 575*
*Child rate: The second child (up to 17 years) stays for free when sharing with 2 parents.
2025
Safari Tent Rates
1st May – 30th June 2025
1st July – 15th October 2025
16th October – 14th November 2025
Per adult sharing
US$ 1400
US$ 1875
US$ 1400
1st child (8 – 17 yrs) sharing with 1 or 2 x adults
US$ 575*
Safari Suite Rates
1st May – 30th June 2025
1st July – 15th October 2025
16th October – 14th November 2025
Per adult sharing (min 2)
US$ 1750
US$ 2250
US$ 1750
Per additional adult
US$ 945
US$ 1 400
US$ 945
Per child (5 – 17 yrs)
US$ 575*
*Child rate: The second child (up to 17 years) stays for free when sharing with 2 parents. Single supplement is 35% for more than per person per night rate.
The Star Drift experience is an additional $400 per couple or single in 2025.
Rates Include: 16% VAT and transfers between Chiawa Safaris camps and airfields. Accommodation. All meals (private dining available), beverages, house wines, local spirits & laundry. Professionally guided safari activities: Game drives (day & night), Bush walks, Boat trips, Angling, Canoe trips.
Privately guided safari activities will be offered as much as possible. *NB: Walks & canoe trips restricted to 12+ years of age and at the discretion of the guide.
In addition, get one free privately guided activity per full day at Chiawa Camp. Valid for bookings of 2 guests or more.
Rates Exclude: Park, Conservation, Community & Carbon Collection Fees. Air or river transfers to/from Lower Zambezi. Any airport departure tax or access fees. Park angling permits and lost or broken fishing tackle. Gratuities, visa fees and personal extras.
Chiawa Camp Accommodation Special Offers
Shoulder Season Offer
Stay 3 and pay 2 at Chiawa Camp. Valid: 1st May – 30th June & 16th October – 14th November every year.
The below offers are valid all seasons
Stay 5 pay 4, or Stay 7 pay 5 at Chiwa Camp.
Best of Both Worlds
Stay 5 pay 4, or Stay 7 pay 5 at a combination of Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro.
Best of Both Parks
Stay 7 pay 5 at a combination of Chiawa Camp, and Puku Ridge.
Safari Ultimate at Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa
Stay 9 pay 6 at a combination of Chiawa Camp, Old Mondoro or Puku Ridge. Three nights at each camp with one night free per camp. So, three nights FREE!
Group Offer
Save 10% when staying with a group of 6 or more guests. Can be combined with other specials.
Family Offer
A second child stays free when sharing with their parents at Chiawa Camp. Park and conservation fees apply.
Exclusive-use Offer
Save 15% when booking the entire Chiawa Camp on an exclusive-use basis – the ultimate family/multi-generational safari for up to 18 guests.
