Chongwe River Camp is located at the confluence of the Zambezi River and its tributary, the Chongwe River, which forms the western boundary of the Lower Zambezi National Park. The camp stands in a game management area that reaches a further 80km west along the Zambezi. This means that although it is outside the (unfenced) park boundary, the camp is still situated in a very productive wildlife area.
The location of Chongwe River Camp is one of the most picturesque of any camp in the Lower Zambezi valley. On this west bank of the Chongwe River is a large grove of tall winterthorn trees and the camp stands under their shady, cool canopy.
Chongwe River Camp has eight safari tents with en-suite bathrooms set along the river bank. Each tent is on a polished concrete base and covered by a separate canvas roof to help keep it cool during the hot summer months. (Read more about the safari tents at Chongwe River Camp...)
The newest addition, the Cassia suite, is due to open in August 2008. It will also have its own private lounge and pool. Where the Albida suite accommodates a group of four family or friends, the Cassia suite is designed to be a private hideaway for two.
Chongwe River Camp's main area is covered by two large canvas marquee-style roofs suspended from the trees above. The bar here is a popular gathering spot for lively conversation before dinner and the comfortable lounge with its colourful cushions and small library is a cool place to relax during the day. In front of this, overlooking the camp's jetty, is the outdoor dining area and campfire, which is surrounded by comfortable wooden armchairs.
On our last visit, in July 2008, we were treated to the sight of a leopard drinking on the opposite bank just after our own afternoon tea break here! Separate from the main area is a refreshing swimming pool a sturdy fence designed to keep the elephants out!
Numerous activities are on offer from Chongwe River Camp. Boat trips and canoeing can be done on the Zambezi River, whilst only canoeing is offered on the slower moving Chongwe River. Fishing is possible on a strictly 'catch and release' basis: the local specialty is the fighting tiger fish. Sizeable catfish and bream are also caught, and the best months for fishing are April, September and October. Day and night safari drives both in the park and in the game management area are offered. If staying for a few days, opt for a full-day excursion into the Lower Zambezi National Park; this encompasses a variety of terrains and includes a sumptuous and lengthy picnic lunch.
Walking safaris are recommended, especially to the north where the foothills of the Zambezi escarpment form the Chongwe Falls. In this area you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the elusive Samango or Blue monkey (Corcopithecus mitis). Although not rare, as these monkeys prefer humid, forested areas making this one of the few more accessible pockets in southern Africa where they can be seen.
Other species usually only found in this little-visited area of the Lower Zambezi valley is the diminutive klipspringer, which prefer the rocky outcrops found in these foothills, and bush pigs which prefer the forested areas.
The birdlife is also particularly good around Chongwe River Lodge, with sought-after species including Schalow's and Livingstone's turacos, Pel's fishing owl and ospreys. Given the diversity offered in this area, it is well worth combining a stay at Chongwe River Camp with two nights at its more rustic, but well situated bush camp – Bushbuck bushcamp.
Ideal length of stay: A three-night stay at Chongwe River Camp is ideal in order to enjoy the full range of activities offered.
Central facilities: Chongwe River Camp has a fairly large main area set on the banks of the Chongwe River and overlooking the jetty below. Two large canvas roofs are suspended from the high canopy of winterthorn trees. The floor is polished concrete and at one side stands the well-stocked bar. Built in benches scattered with brightly coloured cushions invite you to sit back and relax after an exciting game activity. There is a continuous supply of tea, coffee and juice available in the lounge and a good selection of books to browse through in the library.
In front of this is the camp fire surrounded by a large circle of comfortable armchairs covered in the same cushions found in the lounge. Beside this sits a long dining table where most meals are taken under the shade of the trees.
Separate from the main area there is a swimming pool surrounded by comfortable sun loungers. The pool is encircled by a sturdy fence designed to keep the elephants out.
Directions: A light aircraft flight from Lusaka or Mfuwe takes guests to Royal airstrip. From there it is a 20-minute road transfer to camp.
Accessible by: Fly-and-Transfer
Key personnel
Owner: Chris Liebenberg
Food & drink
Usual board basis: Full Board
Food quality: Meals at Chongwe River Camp are delicious, wholesome and of a high standard. Breakfast is usually served around the camp fire. Guests can help themselves from a table laden with a good variety of cereals, yoghurts, juices and fruit. Porridge will be warming over the camp fire and toast is made to order. There is usually an added treat – we had scotch pancakes on our last visit in July 2008.
Lunch is usually a relaxed affair. A buffet table often includes a selection of salads, fresh bread and a hot dish. We enjoyed chicken sosaties (shish kebabs), rice salad, Mediterranean salad, a large green salad and freshly baked bread.
Dinner is often a three-course meal served at a communal dining table set under the stars. When we stayed we started with butternut soup and fresh bread rolls, followed by beef fillet in garlic sauce, mashed potatoes and a selection of vegetables. Desert was crepes filled with bananas in caramel sauce and served with cream – scrumptious!
Dining style: Group Meals
Dining locations: Outdoor Dining
Cost of meal e.g. lunch: Included
Drinks included: All drinks available in Chongwe's well stocked bar are included in the price.
Special interests
Honeymoons: The Cassia suite at Chongwe River Camp offers the perfect combination of a private hide-away and the chance to join other travellers on excursions guided by knowledgeable, professionals. The secluded suite overlooking the confluence of the Zambezi and Chongwe Rivers has its own lounge, plunge pool camp fire.
- See more of our suggestions of the best places for honeymoons in Zambia
Birdwatching: The bird life seen around Chongwe River Camp is exceptional. Fish eagles cry; carmine and white-fronted bee-eaters nest in cliffs, giant and malachite kingfishers flit along channels whilst herons fish. Special species include the red-winged pratincole, crested guinea fowl, Verraux's eagle, trumpeter hornbill, osprey, Pel's fishing owl and the stunning narina trogon which visits in the summer (Oct – Apr).
- See more of our suggestions of the best places for birdwatching in Zambia
Wildlife: A guided walking safari from Chongwe River camp into the foothills of the Zambezi escarpment could produce sightings of the Samango or blue monkey (Corcophithecus mitis). Although found in pockets throughout south, east and central Africa, this species prefers humid areas with abundant water and tall trees making this is one of the only easily accessible spots in the Lower Zambezi to find them.
- See more of our suggestions of the best places for wildlife in Zambia
Children
Attitude towards children: The minimum age welcomed at Chongwe is 8 years. Walking activities are only possible for children aged 12 and above. Although the decision on whether youngsters aged between 12 and 16 can join walking activities at the discretion of the managers.
Equipment: The Albida suite has two rooms separated by a private lounge and plunge pool. Accommodating up to four guests, this suite is ideal for small family groups.
Notes: Parents should be aware that the camp is unfenced and dangerous animals pass through exceedingly frequently. (During the dry season, there are elephants wandering around almost constantly.) Children should be supervised at all times.
Central communications
Power supply: Generator
Communications: The camp has radio connection with their guides at all times. Satellite email and phones are used for contact outside of the Zambezi Valley. Email facilities are available for guests on request. A wireless connection is planned for the main area soon.
Health & safety
Malarial area: Yes
Medical care: The guides at Chongwe are trained in first aid. For more serious inflictions guests will be taken to Lusaka by light aircraft.
Dangerous animals: High Risk
Security measures: Night watchmen are on duty in that camp after dark to escort guests back to their tents safe from wildlife.
Fire safety: There is a fire extinguisher in the camps kitchen. Water hoses are available throughout the camp in case of fire.
Extras
Disabled access: On Request
Laundry facilities: A laundry service is offered at the camp and included in the price. This does not include ladies smalls which cannot be washed by the camp staff for various reasons. Washing powder is supplied in each room for guests who wish to hand wash any items.
Money: A stay at Chongwe River Camp includes all meals, drinks and activities. It is possible to purchase a cap or t-shirt bearing the camp's logo, but otherwise the only additional cost would be any tips or gratuities.
Accepted payment: Credit cards are not accepted. US Dollars and the local currency, Kwacha, are the only acceptable forms of payment.
Chongwe River Camp review
This camp has great facilities. I liked that the tents had doors and curtains, and also appreciated the lamps, as I usually read before I go to sleep. The bathroom was very nice, and the hot water wa...
Super whole day drive with lunch!
We had a very nice stay at Chongwe. The experiences on the Zambesi (by boat)were very nice, interesting , relaxing, and also a little bit exiting because of the hippo's and crocs!!
Chongwe River Camp review
The kayak trip down the Zambezi down the narow cut was excellent.
Helpful guides and staff.
The comment below about the food is because we were comparing it to the Kapani where the catering was firs...
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