Chongwe Camp incl. Suites and Chongwe House (Lower Zambezi)

Dotted along the forested riverbanks, Time + Tide Chongwe Camp (incl. Suites and Chongwe House) is surrounded by wild beauty. Set at the confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi Rivers against a beautiful mountainous backdrop, the camp has the best views in the Lower Zambezi. Sit outside your tent, listening to playful vervet monkeys scampering in the winterthorn trees overhead. Before you, an elephant wades across the languid river, dwarfed by the mountainous escarpment beyond. The resident hippos bellow their displeasure at this intrusion, breaking the tranquility. A warm breeze drifts past, carrying the earthy aroma of the river. Lean back and breathe deeply, letting the energy of this extraordinary, wild land revitalize your mind and soul.

Chongwe Camp operates on generator power and have British three pin plugs. There is limited WiFi.

Every day the team serves up satisfying meals, your favorite drinks and big smiles in the relaxed main lounge.

The wildlife hide is great for photography and for spotting rare nocturnal creatures.

Skip to Chongwe Camp, Suites and Chongwe House Rates, Activities, or Specials and Packages

Time + Tide Chongwe Camp Accommodation

Time + Tide Chongwe Camp has eight Safari Tents (double or twin configuration with overhead fan). These are charming, with a spacious open-air bathroom. Sit on the comfortable lounge chairs on your private deck and watch as the wildlife visits the river banks. Local textiles and furniture which has been hand crafted. Everything has been beautifully thought out and blends in perfectly with the scenery.

Chongwe Suites Accommodation

Indulge in luxury and seclusion while immersing yourself in the wildest of settings. The one bedroom Cassia Suite is a private suite for two. Perfect for honeymooners and couples. The two bedroom, two bathroom Albida Suite sleeps four guests. Therefore it is great for families wanting their own space or friends traveling together.

Both have en-suite open air bathrooms with a claw foot bath, a canopied lounge and dining area, a pool overlooking the river, a fire pit and a dedicated butler. The suites are open air. With views of the confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi Rivers on one side and the Zambezi Escarpment on the other. Wildlife regularly pass through the area. With elephants often playing and crossing the channel directly in front of the suites.

Dine privately in your suite or in the main camp on the riverbank for a more lively ambiance. Enjoying cuisine that celebrates local seasonal ingredients. Notice how much better your nightcap tastes when it’s served in a crystal glass by the fire.

The Albida Suite includes privately guided activities.

Lower Zambezi private safari accommodation — Cassia Suite

Lower Zambezi accommodation at Chongwe Camp — Albida Suite

Chongwe House Accommodation

Explore a wild wonderland in this award winning private home away from home. Time + Tide Chongwe House rests on a peaceful stretch of the Chongwe River. Set against a beautiful mountainous backdrop.

A two story, four bedroom, four bathroom private house, its design blends effortlessly into the undulating landscape around it. With river pebble accents and furniture carved from a fallen winterthorn tree. The house sleeps four to eight people and features private open air bathtubs and waterfall showers. A large pool and spacious indoor and outdoor lounges with dining areas are perfect for spending time together.

Listen to fish eagle calls and the faint sound of a resident family of warthogs ‘mowing’ the grass outside. Watch elephants wade across the river right in front of the house. Savor fine dining in the wild, featuring local and seasonal ingredients.

Game drives, walking safaris, canoeing safaris, boat cruises and tiger fishing are all on offer at Time + Tide Chongwe House. Throughout your stay, a dedicated staff and guiding team will look after your every need. Ensuring you make the most of this haven for lions, leopards, wild dog, 370 species of birds and more.

Exclusive use accommodation in Lower Zambezi National Park — Chongwe House bedroom with open plan bathroom

Yoga on safari — Enjoy yoga on your deck at Chongwe House

Zambia Family Safari

Spend time in the places you love, with the people you love. Time + Tide believe in introducing children to the wonders of the wild from an early age. The team takes great care in sharing a deep appreciation for the land, wildlife, and culture with every guest. Including the youngest explorers. Unforgettable encounters, immersive experiences, and inspiring stories help families connect with nature. Whether simply enjoying time together or diving into fun filled activities on safari.

Children’s experiences at Time + Tide will spark curiosity and wonder for all kids. Beyond thrilling game drives, younger guests can track wildlife with the guides, try their hand at cooking with the chefs, and enjoy a host of other engaging activities. Opt for a family suite (Albida), or enjoy the exclusivity of Chongwe House.

Children of all ages welcome in all Time and Tide camps. When sharing with an adult, children under 18 years old are charged 50% of the nightly adult rate. Children 3 and under are free of charge when sharing with an adult. Families of four or less including at least one child younger than 12 years, are required to pay for the use of a private vehicle. Adults are responsible for supervising children at all times. Minimum age for walking, canoeing and sleep out is 12 years old and at the discretion of the guide. Earlier dinners are available for any younger guests but please do let us know beforehand.

Activities

Zambia’s wild places are rich with life at every turn. In the Lower Zambezi, the river is the lifeblood of the ecosystem, drawing in elephant, hippo and buffalo, and offering glimpses of shy bushbuck at the water’s edge. Not to mention the birds!

The Lower Zambezi National Park is best known for its impressive variety of safari activities that few, if any, other destinations can offer. Therefore, Time + Tide Chongwe is a fantastic destination for adventurous and active travelers.

Safari Game Drives

Safaris are in open 4X4 vehicles (Land Cruiser or Land Rover) with either two or three ‘rows’ of seats. Generally there are 4, with no more than 6, people on a vehicle ensuring everyone has a ‘window’ seat.

Night drives are generally an extension of your afternoon game drive, canoe or walking safari. As the sun begins to set stop to watch the day come to a close with a drink in the bush. As dusk falls set off to explore as the nocturnal animals start to emerge.

The best chance of seeing genets, civets, elephant shrew, porcupine and the fierce honey badger is after sunset. The large predators, with the exception of wild dog, are most active at night. Night time birding can be very rewarding with nightjars, owls great and small, dikkop, bat hawk and coursers are all abundant.

Chongwe Camp wildlife on safari — Wild dog with buffaloes

Walking Safaris

There is little to compare to the thrill of a walking safari. The Lower Zambezi valley offers some of the best terrain for exploring on foot. Walking is the only way you really become intimate with Africa. Learning about the small, seemingly irrelevant plants and animals which are often overlooked on a game drive.

Walks are with an armed scout, and your safari guide. They will show you an amazing secret world of tiny wonders. Leading you slowly through the bush along ancient animal pathways. Examining plants, trees and insects along the way.

Walking safari in Lower Zambezi — Walking safari

Canoeing

Canoeing offers you a completely different perspective. Glide gently along either the Zambezi and its beautiful channels or the Chongwe River. Allowing you to fully appreciate the magical beauty of this incredible area and the creatures and plants that inhabit it.

It truly is a special experience for the nature lover using only the safest of routes. The canoes seat two guests and a guide in comfort, with ample room for cameras and binoculars. Previous canoeing experience is not necessary, and life jackets are provided. All you need to do is sit back, relax and watch Africa slip by!

Canoeing safaris are great all year. During the driest months of August to November, wildlife congregates along the river.

Fishing

The Lower Zambezi is tiger fish country! Tiger fish have sharp teeth that are matched only by its fighting spirit and reputation as one of the world’s top game fish. Head out onto the river in search of this formidable combatant. Operating a strict catch and release policy in order to preserve stocks of this incredible fish. You can fish with both fly and popper.

Alternatively, you can try your hand at bream fishing on the river itself. Where a limited catch can be brought back to camp and served up with a delicious lemon butter sauce!

Fishing can be combined with game activities and all equipment is provided. There is both conventional tackle and entry level fly rods available. We recommend serious fly fisherman should bring their own tackle.

Fishing is good year round, but peaks in October and November during the breeding season.

River Safari

Sit back and relax as your guide navigates the islands and main channels of the mighty Zambezi from the comfort of a luxury boat. Cruise the river looking at game, and birds. You can enjoy some of the most spectacular sunsets you are ever likely to see. All without the bumps and dust of game drives.

Morning coffee or evening sundowners can be enjoyed from either the boat or from your own island in the middle of the Zambezi River!

Boat cruises are excellent all year on the Zambezi River. Expect plenty of hippos, crocodiles, birds and elephants. There are over 370 species of bird in the Lower Zambezi!

Lower Zambezi Birding Safari

For birders, Zambia is a dream. The Lower Zambezi National Park is home to more than 370 recorded bird species. From seasonal carmine bee-eaters to the ever present African fish eagles or a special pel’s fishing owl. The air rings with their calls, especially in the green season. Even those who don’t call themselves birders find themselves reaching for binoculars again and again. As waters settle in April and May, floodplains remain lively with species such as African jacana and white-fronted bee-eater. The cool, dry months of June and July reveal exposed sandbanks where African skimmers, Goliath herons, and white-crowned lapwings gather. By August and September, the river draws in specialized species such as nesting southern carmine bee-eaters. As heat builds into October and mid November, the first summer migrants return, woodland kingfishers call, and European rollers bring color as the season turns toward the rains.

Photographic Safari

Photography safaris are shaped for those who value time behind the lens, with the freedom to slow down and work carefully with light and composition. The Lower Zambezi offers a beautifully varied photographic setting shaped by water and wilderness. Meandering river channels, winterthorn forests, open pans, and wide sandy banks create layers of depth and contrast. From intimate wildlife portraits along the water’s edge to wider landscape compositions that capture the scale and stillness of the valley, the diversity here rewards both patience and creativity.

April and May mark the transition to the dry season. The landscape remains green and fresh, rivers still run strong, making it ideal for rich color and atmospheric scenes. From June to August, the dry months bring gentle light and thinning vegetation, with wildlife gathering around water sources, offering excellent opportunities for crisp wildlife photography. September to mid-November becomes warmer and more dramatic, with golden grass, dust and haze in the air, and deep, glowing light that lends itself to striking silhouettes, textured landscapes, and powerful sunrise and sunset imagery.

For your kit, a telephoto lens in the 200 to 500 mm range is ideal, paired with a wide angle for landscapes. Pack spare memory cards, cleaning gear, a dustproof bag, resealable bags for smaller items, plus extra batteries and a charger.

Cultural Village Visit

Your journey begins on the river, crossing from Time + Tide Chongwe to the nearby Mugurameno village. Here, community and conservation go hand in hand. This guided experience shares the tangible outcomes of your presence. From young girls entering secondary school for the first time to fresh produce on your plate, grown just downriver by local farmers. Learn about the lives of the Goba people, their traditions, trades, tools, edifices and arts. Including dance, song and handiwork of local craftspeople. For more information.

The Chiawa Cultural Village is a partnership between conservation organizations, Lower Zambezi Lodges and the Goba people of Chiawa. Championing a cultural tourism enterprise prototype that empowers local people to benefit directly from the tourism trade generated by the profusion of wildlife in the region. It is owned by the Chiawa community through the Tsika Development Company.

Sleep Out Under the Stars

Rediscover the romance of safari’s earliest days with our exclusive sleep out under the stars. This experience invites you to trade four walls for open skies, flickering firelight, and the quiet pulse of the wild.

The camp is perched high on the escarpment, offering sweeping views across the valley below. A private camp with custom tents, cozy bedrolls, warm water, and a small, attentive team to look after every detail.

Evening unfolds with a gentle ritual: a waiter offers you sunset drinks by the fire, stories are shared with your guide, and a three course meal is prepared by a chef under the stars. As darkness deepens, you drift off beneath the vast African sky. Serenaded by the distant calls and the hush of the wild. Wake to the rising sun and the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and a full breakfast cooked on the fire.

In this delicate balance of adventure and ease, Africa’s grandeur becomes personal and intimate. Your room is held back in camp should you wish to return. This experience can sleep from 2 to 10 people. This is set up exclusively for you for the night, it is not shared with other guests in camp.

Wellness

Between activities, enjoy wellness therapies that combine the healing touch of expert therapists with the richness of African botanicals. Yoga kits are available at camp.

Wining and Dining at Chongwe

The culinary team uses locally produced ingredients to create delectable meals that satisfy the soul and delight the palette. Despite the remote and tranquil setting. Dine under the stars, in the privacy of your suite, or overlooking the river. The attention to detail and warm hospitality will create a wonderful experience. At the end of a lively day on safari, enjoy your sundowner, a cherished African tradition. Whether you prefer a crisp gin and tonic or a local beer, the excellent bar staff have got you covered!

Meal times at Chongwe are fluid depending on the time of year and the choice of activities but this is a general guide.
Breakfast 6am – 7am. Watch the hippos stir and early morning game drinking from the river bank in front of you. While you sip hot coffee and enjoy a light breakfast buffet.
Brunch 11.30am – 12.30pm. After returning from your morning activity, enjoy a buffet brunch. Join your guide and fellow guests to share tales of the morning’s adventures.
High Tea 3.30pm – 4pm. Meet for drinks and a delicious, freshly baked treat before setting off on your afternoon activity.
Dinner 7.30pm – 8.00pm. After drinks and canapés before dinner around the fire, guests enjoy a delicious three course dinner al fresco under a canopy of stars.

Guests staying in Albida or Cassia Suites have the option of dining privately or joining guests for meals at the main camp.

The team of highly trained, local Chefs cater for any special dietary requirements you may have (vegetarian, vegan, gluten, dairy free etc).

Getting to Time + Tide Chongwe

Flights are available from Lusaka, Livingstone and Mfuwe (South Luangwa). Chongwe is about 20 minutes drive from Royal Airstrip. Jeki Airstrip is about 3 hours away.

Time + Tide Chongwe Camp Accommodation Rates

The Chongwe camps are all open from the 1st April – 15th November every year.

2026 and 2027 Chongwe Rates	Green Season: 1st April – 30th June & 1st – 15th November	Safari Season: 1st July – 31st October
Chongwe Camp	$810	$990
Chongwe Cassia Suite / Albida Suite (min. 4 adults)	$950	$1330
Chongwe House	$900	$1270

Single Supplement: 50% of the nightly rate

The rates include:
Accommodation and all meals.
Standard drinks (soft drinks, house wine, beer and spirits).
Transfers to/from local airport (except Jeki Airport**).
Local inter camp road transfers, laundry and service charge.
Two daily activities: Game drives, walking safaris, cultural visits.
Seasonal activities: Boat cruises, fishing and canoeing.

Chongwe House, Albida & Cassia Suites have private vehicles and guides.
A 20 minute welcome massage (for Chongwe House and Cassia and Albida Suites).

These rates exclude:
Reserve spirits, wines and champagnes.
Entry visas, flights.
Meet and Greet in Lusaka.
Spa treatments.
Gratuities, personal expenses and extras.

Time + Tide Chongwe Camp Accommodation Special Offers

Stay/Pay Offers

Stay 10, pay 8, stay 7, pay 6 or Stay 4, pay 3* at all Time and Tide camps in Zambia (see below under Jet Set Safari).

*Valid all year except the 4 for 3 offer which is only available in the green season (1st – 15th November and 1st April – 30th June).

Spontaneous Safari

A wildly generous offer that allows you to follow the road less traveled and enjoy this exceptional, untouched and uncrowded wilderness. The Spontaneous Safari rates are valid for travel until 30 June 2026. With the exception of Time + Tide Luwi and Time + Tide Nsolo, valid until 15 November 2026. This offer can be combined with the Stay Pay offers, which give you complimentary nights to enjoy more time on safari.

Spontaneous Safari Rates	Green Season: 1st January – 30th June 2026	Safari Season: 1st July – 15th November 2026
Chinzombo	$ 950	–
Chongwe Suites and Chongwe House	$ 700	–
Chongwe Camp, Mchenja, Kakuli, Nsolo, Luwi	$ 600	$ 800 (Nsolo, and Luwi only)

Jet Set Safari

Stay a minimum of 5 nights at any Time + Tide Safaris camps in Zambia and 5 nights at Time + Tide in Madagascar and receive 2 nights complimentary.
Valid all year.

These are:
Madagascar: Miavana* by Time + Tide or Tsara Komba Lodge.
Lower Zambezi, Zambia: Chongwe Camp (including Suites and Chongwe House).
South Luangwa, Zambia: Time + Tide Chinzombo, Mchenja, Kakuli, Nsolo, Luwi.

*For stays at Miavana, you also get complimentary return helicopter transfers from Diego Suarez / Nosy Be.

Zambia Honeymoon

Stay a minimum of 5 nights at any Time + Tide Safaris camps in Zambia within 6 months of your wedding and receive 50% off your partner’s accommodation.
Valid all year.

Lower Zambezi Accommodation ↓

Chongwe Camp incl. Suites and Chongwe House (Lower Zambezi)

Time and Tide Chongwe Camp
Lower Zambezi National Park Zambia

Chongwe Camp incl. Suites and Chongwe House (Lower Zambezi)