Chongwe River Camp is situated on the confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi Rivers, directly opposite Mana Pools. The Chongwe River is the boundary of the Lower Zambezi National Park. The camp has a wonderful view of not only the confluence of the two rivers but also the mountains of the impressive Zambezi escarpment. Situated under a canopy of Albida thorns and surrounded by cool lawns, the 8 chalets are large, well appointed safari tents under thatch, with luxury ensuite open air bathrooms.
The bathrooms are an experience on their own. All fittings are made from natural materials found near the lodge and the front of the room have doors not zippers so they are easy to get in and out! There is solar power electric meaning that guests can now charge camera batteries and have lights in the rooms.
There is a swimming pool, large shady gardens and a comfortable lounge bar area. A variety of land and water based activities are on offer including game drives (day and night) and walks, canoeing, motor boating and fishing.
A normal day consists of an early morning activity followed by a hearty brunch and siesta time through the heat of the day, then afternoon tea and cakes followed by another activity and evening dinner.
Lion, leopard, buffalo, hippo, and elephant are frequently seen on activities. In between big game sightings at the camp, one can expect to see plenty other game such as impala, warthog, waterbuck, kudu, bushbuck, hyena and baboon. The area also has rarer species like honey badger, porcupine, aardvark, klipspringer and pangolin.
One of the most appealing things about Chongwe River Camp is the scenery from camp and surrounding the area - changing from riparian woodland to open plains and dense forest all with the backdrop of mountains and the mighty Zambezi make this area simply beautiful to immerse yourself into, away from the modern, western world.
New at Chongwe in 2007 the 'Albida Suite' on the edge of the main camp in a gorgeous position on the river looking towards the mountains, this luxury suite consists of two large bedrooms share a central lounge and dining area with a private plunge pool. The luxury bedrooms are en-suite and have octagonal sides with 7 sides of gauze letting air through with a walkway to private garden areas. Bathrooms have a canvas roof but open to the bush with bath and showers.
New for 2008 is the 'Cassia Suite'. Built in the same style as the Albida Suite with a custom-designed octagonal room tent, this has gauze windows, which may be rolled up during the day, on seven sides of tents. The adjoining bathroom has a canvas roof with double basin, shower and free standing bath. A lounge appointed with comfortable chairs and sofas and furnished with fine antiques is at the front of the suite alongside a private pool set at the edge of the river. This area is perfect for relaxing and a dining area allows meals and drinks to be taken in the suite or in the main camp.
Chongwe also offer a bush camp - Bushbuck Camp is a seasonal rustic camp for the guest seeking the more traditional remote safari experience. Whilst every comfort is catered for with Maluti tents with twin or double beds, flush toilet and hot bucket showers, the camp is truly rustic but comfortable. Lit only by hurricane lamps there is no generator or engines. Situated on a 60 foot cliff overlooking a bend on the Chongwe River near the idyllic Chongwe Water Fall which tumbles out of the Muchinga escarpment. Walking safaris are enjoyed in these mountains.
