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CHIKWENYA CAMP

Chikwenya is located along the eastern boundary of Zimbabwe's famous Mana Pools National Park, on the banks of the great meandering Zambezi River. The Mana Pools area was recently declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site by virtue of its scenic splendour and diversity of wildlife.

The camp is situated at the point where the Sapi River joins the Zambezi, and enjoys some of Southern Africa's most spectacular views overlooking vast floodplains and the mountains of the Great Rift Valley in the background. To add to the picturesque beauty of the area, the Zambezi at this point is a flat and gently coursing expanse of water, up to 3 miles wide. Gazing across this vast expanse of pristine wilderness, dotted with herds of elephant, buffalo, and a variety of plains game, one cannot help but be struck by a very real appreciation of Africa's untamed beauty.

Chikwenya offers a diversity of activities. Game drives are conducted in specially-adapted open safari vehicles, carrying a maximum of eight guests per vehicle. Game-viewing is also conducted from motorised pontoons which glide quietly down the river, passing hippos, crocodiles, and an array of terrestrial mammals that come down to the life-giving waters of the Zambezi to quench their thirst. The area is also home to a very rich diversity of bird-life. For those wanting to try their hand at fishing for the feisty Tiger Fish, this is one of the best areas along the Zambezi for doing this.

Of all the activities at Chikwenya, the two most special are canoeing and walking. For the most silent and intimate way of experiencing the magic of the Zambezi, and exploring the many diverse life-forms that are dependent on it, paddle a canoe downstream under the watchful eye of your highly trained professional guide. For a different perspective on the animals and the landscape, take a walk through the African bush with your guide, tracking big game and taking time to stop and appreciate all the smaller components of this amazing ecosystem.

Zimbabwe's guides are arguably the best in all of Africa, and must pass through a rigorous training and apprenticeship programme (taking up to five years to complete) before they are qualified to lead guests on foot or in canoes through the National Parks.

Chikwenya Camp boasts nine gigantic "tents" set on polished wood platforms with high thatched roofs. Inside, the colour scheme is neutral and blends perfectly with the colours of the open flood plain in front of the camp. From the handmade wool area rugs on the floor, to the indigenous pots and sculptures nestled into cubby holes in the wall, to the enormous wooden doors, each tent is an harmonious work of art. The balcony running around the front and side of the tent will afford hours of daytime pleasure, gazing into the beautiful inspiring distance. In the evenings, take advantage of the wonderful open air shower or bath under copious stars.

The main lodge is similarly attractive, with a minimum of furnishings and lots of space. At night the entire camp is lit by lanterns, bathing it in a golden glow. Dinner is served al fresco under gigantic iron candelabras with white linen, and handmade pottery tableware. Every detail is attended to in order to create a relaxed yet elegant dining experience. Even the morning brunch buffet is presented artistically on a long table amidst driftwood and flowers.

Chikwenya is undoubtedly one of our favourite camps in Zimbabwe, offering the perfect balance between activities and relaxation, simplicity and luxury. The setting is breathtaking, and the camp is surrounded by an atmosphere of tranquil beauty. Chikwenya also offers a broad choice of activities by which to enjoy and appreciate the diverse wildlife and spectacular landscape of the area. The camp itself is simple yet very stylish and comfortable, and fits in wonderfully to the inspirational landscape around it.

To find out more about Chikwenya, or to make a reservation, call on

27-11-463-7889 or email us.

LIYATSHWA SAFARIS PORTFOLIO - Mana Pools National Park