Reviews of Chiawa Camp
(97%) From 69 travellersThey do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa.
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Chiawa Camp review
Our first thrill about Chiawa was its location - landing on a dirt strip in the bush, then a 15 minute drive to the river, followed by a 40 minute boat ride up the river. We truly felt that we were in the middle of nowhere.
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).
Expert Africa comments
Chiawa’s team came back to us immediately on this and agree that their guests come primarily to view wildlife, and they will remind the kitchen that they need to be flexible to this. Chiawa is very sorry that these guests felt the meal schedule was a little rigid - even though this family had at least four private meals including a barge dinner and a bush dinner. They admit that their managers should have checked, and offered more, as more could have been offered especially seeing they were staying in the Safari Suite.
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
Arrived to be safely ushered to reception due to the presence of an elephant visiting the camp. This place was just luxury throughout - we were treated to a private lunch on the river, a private dinner on the balcony overlooking the river, a further "camp dinner" under the stars in the bush. It was just fabulous and a superb experience.
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.
Chiawa Always Delivers
Wonderful time at Chiawa.
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.
Chiawa Camp review
5th visit says it all. Chiawa and particularly its staff are both amazing and do great credit to Lower Zambezi National Park.
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.
Chiawa Camp review
Our second time here and just as good as the first.
For us this is the standard that all camps should aspire to.
Warm hospitality
The flight and the boattrip to Lower Zambezi and Chiawa Camp is already beautiful. What a splendid environment and what a warm welcome.
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.
High expectations realised
As a return visitor to Chiawa ( last visit 2014) I had very high expectations in respect of every aspect that makes up "The Chiawa Experience".
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.
Chiawa Camp review
Best sited camp in whole trip. Most comfortable and loads of game in the camp.
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.
