Chinzombo Lodge

In the eastern sector of the Mosi Oa Tunya National Park and about 12 kilometres from Victoria Falls, Wilderness Toka Leya gets immediate and fantastic views over the Zambezi River, and taking advantage of these are its twelve tented rooms. Each comes with a large decking area at the front leading out from large glass sliding doors, behind which is your large stylish open plan lounge area and bedroom. The camp’s main area is situated on a large decking area, and underneath a canopy of trees right beside the main channel of the Zambezi River. Perfect for atmospheric campfires on the bank and spotting the resident wildlife. Here there is also a very spacious open-plan lounge and dining room, set beneath an enormous canvas roof and with open sides to maximise the views. The wall at the back of the living area is a really great feature; it’s made of “log tiles”, which gives the room a very natural feel. Each tent has its very own solar panel, water geyser and batteries in keeping with the camp’s aim to lessen its environmental footprint.

This camp sits in a stunning location, on the confluence of the main Zambezi and Chongwe Rivers, offering a rustic but comfortable option for those that want to experience Africa in a similar pioneering style as the courageous explorer Dr David Livingstone, 150 years ago. We recommend Chongwe Camp for travelers wanting to encounter one of Africa’s remotest areas, and the animals of the relatively undiscovered wilderness that is the Lower Zambezi. Chongwe River Camp is the sister to the Chongwe River House, and offers a more informal and adventurous experience that allows guests to get closer to Zambia’s wild and pristine tranquility. Each of the eight river facing tents is secluded in the shade of a large grove of old Winterthorn trees, ensuring the tents stay cool in the heat of the midday sun. The camp also gives you uninterrupted views of the river and the wildlife that comes there to drink or cool down. A range of guided activities can be tailored to meet specific interests to ensure your time here is truly memorable. Also part of the camp are the Chongwe suites which offer sublime luxury and service against a beautifully wild setting. Nestled under ancient winterthorn trees at the confluence of the Chongwe and Zambezi Rivers are the Cassia suite (one bedroom) and the Albida suite (two bedrooms). The suites are perfect for honeymooners or families and friends travelling together. Both have butler service, plunge pools overlooking the river and private dining options. Also included are private game viewing activities.

Largely untouched by crowds and paved roads, Liuwa Plain National Park boasts one of the oldest conservation histories in Africa; it was proclaimed a protected area by the lodge’s namesake, King Lewanika of the Lozi tribe in the early 1880s. The camp is a beautifully modern take on the traditional safari camp, retaining features and simple materials such as canvas drops, leather and wooden decks overlooking the wilderness with local thatch and grass in the main area in a refreshingly simple, sustainable, and meaningful way. There are just six spacious tents here sat on platforms which open up dramatically to the surrounding plains and feature both indoor and outdoor showers. One is a family suite which features one double and one triple room. The communal thatch building has lounge, dining and bar areas, with stairs leading down to a fire pit. King Lewanika Lodge has experienced guides for intimate safari excursions with unrivalled access and absolute exclusivity to this unspoiled region. Unique wildlife experiences include witnessing hyenas hunt in packs of up to 50, the second biggest wildebeest migration in Africa, rare birds, a growing cheetah population and its famed lion pride. Explore on guided walks as well as day and night game drives, with boating and canoeing possible between December and March, depending on water levels.

Nestled within a tree island in the game-rich and utterly beautiful Busunga Plains, Shumba Camp fuses its wild and remote location with stylish design for a superior safari experience. Soak up these fabulous sweeping views of a wide array of animals including wild dog, antelope and prides of lion, from your elegant tent or the camp’s wide deck. The spacious tents here are perched on raised wooden platforms and enjoy both indoor and outdoor showers. After a day of wildlife spotting, whether it’s been from a hot air balloon, 4×4 or boat, return to Shumba for some relaxing moments. Take a dip in the pool, dine on delicious food, indulge in a massage and spend a cultural evening around the boma.