Reviews of Chiawa Camp
Wildlife sightings and reviews
89 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Chiawa Camp and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
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"Chiawa Camp review"
Excellent food.
Large and well maintained comfortable rooms, with internal bathrooms.
Attentive staff. Excellent award winning guiding team.
Excellent on land and river safaris.
Elephants roam through the camp, as did 2 sub-adult lions at 2am one morning." See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia; 2n in South Africa
"Chiawa Camp review"
In general our stay at Chiawa was really great. Our accommodations were lovely though we had come from a more luxurious camp and our suite at Chiawa wasn't as spacious, plus we shared a bathroom with our teenage children rather than having one for each room, which wasn't quite as easy - but all in all it was very nice and comfortable. Additionally, the food was excellent and the chef did a lovely job of catering to our gluten-free needs.
Because we were on the Lower Zambezi River, we got do enjoy water activities as well as game drives. We spent a morning fishing (though unfortunately didn't catch anything) and an afternoon canoeing which was amazing. The guides took us down a channel off the river and we were scarily close to hippos and crocodiles - even the guides got tense on a few occasions. We also got 'stuck' when a herd of about 15 elephants decided to cross the channel in front of us and we had to stay put for about an hour while they entered the water, a few at a time, took a drink, and enjoyed the water until eventually all of them had crossed. That was a truly spectacular hour.
Our game drives were also excellent. While we didn't see such a wide variety of animals as we had in South Luangwa (there are no giraffes and we didn't see zebras in the part of the park that we spent time in, although they are in a different part), we did see excellent and close up lions and leopards every time we went out, more than we had in South Luangwa. We went with different guides each time and all were superb.
For us, the only downside of Chiawa was that the meal schedule was a little rigid and usually communal. Lunch and dinner were at a set time and because everyone ate together no one sat down until everyone had gathered. At our previous camp we enjoyed one communal lunch and some chatting over drinks but had meals at our own table which suited us better and also meant there was flexibility on timing. I know many camps have communal meals and it was really nice to share information with other people but we did feel rushed a few times to get to dinner or lunch (including once when we were on a game drive watching a leopard stalk a prey)." See all these reviews: 9n in Zambia
The Safari Suite is a one bedroom/one bathroom suite, with a lounge with a separate loo and washbasin. This works well for families with young children who are happy to share, but for families with older children it may not be as ideal as a 2-bedroom house, or even taking another safari tent for the older kids.
"Luxury in the Bush"
All the staff were friendly, helpful - they couldn't do enough. Due to the presence of animals in camp you were escorted from you room to reception on all occasions - the staff were prompt, efficient and really cared about you. Outstanding management that runs this place so well - Simon and Juliet.
Game drives brilliant - exceptional guides. Took the opportunity to go canoeing (well sat in the boat whilst the guides paddled) - this was a highlight to see the place from a completely different aspect, no shortage of animals on any of the safari activities.
Cannot praise Chiawa enough for the entire experience and would never have thought you could get such perfection in the "middle of nowhere" - credit to the all the staff." See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia
"Chiawa Always Delivers"
Our guide Boaz was great, and had an awesome time fishing with Clement.
New room decor was very nice, but they need a place to unpack clothes." See all these reviews: 16n in Zambia
"Chiawa Camp review"
There has not been as much rain as hoped during the rainy season so the surroundings were dry with little vegetation and consequently we saw far more game than anticipated at this time in the season. Impala, baboons and elephant seemed to be everywhere and is a reflection on the conservation work being carried out.
My companion follows a vegan diet and, with prior knowledge, was well catered for." See all these reviews: 9n in Zambia
"Chiawa Camp review"
For us this is the standard that all camps should aspire to." See all these reviews: 11n in Zambia; 7n in Malawi
"Warm hospitality"
The camp with very luxery beautifully furnished "tents" is very good organised with excellent perfect service. The food is incredible good. Enjoyed the dining in a fairy like lighted bush, lunch on the river and my early morning tea in bed.
The guides are superb! They found everything we wanted. Also enjoyed the canoe trip very much." See all these reviews: 12n in Zambia
"Chiawa Camp review"
"High expectations realised"
In all respects even these were exceeded.
Quality wildlife/ rooms/ food/ service and activities. Excitement, fun, interesting people ( guests and staff ),educational, healthy outdoor living and a great environment to stimulate ( and rest) body and mind.
Note: I am not a fisherman at home, but at Chiawa it is one of the activities a visitor has to try.On my last morning I caught a 62 lbs Vundu ( a freshwater catfish)......I know, boasting!!
The fish was returned unharmed to the river.
I will return to Chiawa." See all these reviews: 10n in Zambia
"Chiawa Camp review"
In one hour we saw a troop of baboons, a small herd of elephant, bush buck, water buck, impala, warthogs and hippo from our verandha!
Most enjoyable canoe trip. Not at all strenuous and very relaxing." See all these reviews: 10n in Zambia
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