About Chongwe River Camp
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. It lies in a game management area (GMA) that reaches a further 80km west along the Zambezi – so while it is outside the (unfenced) park boundary, it is still in a very productive wildlife area, with elephants regularly seen in camp.
Chongwe is a great camp with a stunning riverfront location. Due to its location outside of the park it can take a bit longer to get to the best wildlife areas further east, but this doesn’t detract greatly from your game viewing experience, partly due to the excellent guiding you’ll find here, but also due to the plentiful wildlife around the camp itself.
Our view
Chongwe is a great camp with a stunning riverfront location. Due to its location outside of the park it can take a bit longer to get to the best wildlife areas further east, but this doesn’t detract greatly from your game viewing experience, partly due to the excellent guiding you’ll find here, but also due to the plentiful wildlife around the camp itself.
Country manager: Zambia
Accommodation
8 tents and 2 suites
Children
Best for 12+
Open
1 Apr to 15 Nov
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Canoeing
Fishing
Night drive
Traveller reviews of Chongwe River Camp
122 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 87 pictures and 3 videos of Chongwe River Camp to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting Chongwe River Camp
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Duiker Safari
10 days • 3 locations • 1 country
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
Three luxurious bushcamps in stunning riverside locations, split between the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi national parks, offer a wide variety of expert-guided safari activities in stunning game-rich environments.
Visiting Lower Zambezi, South Luangwa
US$10,960 - US$14,470 per person
Chongwe River Camp: Our full report
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. It lies in a game management area (GMA) that reaches a further 80km west along the Zambezi – so while it is outside the (unfenced) park boundary, it is still in a very productive wildlife area, with elephants regularly seen in camp.
Set on the west bank of the Chongwe River, Chongwe River Camp has one of the most picturesque locations of any camp in the Lower Zambezi valley. It stands under a large grove of tall winterthorn trees, whose seed pods often attract numerous elephants into the camp.
Chongwe River Camp has nine safari tents and two suites all with a river frontage.
- Nine safari tents with en-suite bathrooms are raised on polished concrete bases and covered by separate canvas roofs to help keep them cool during the summer months.
- The private Albida suite, at the south end of the camp, incorporates two spacious tents that share a private lounge, dining area, swimming pool and campfire.
- The Cassia suite, at the far end of the camp, comprises a single spacious tent with its own bar, 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.
In front of the main area, overlooking the camp's jetty, is an outdoor dining area and campfire, surrounded by comfortable wooden armchairs. On one of our previous visits, we were treated to the sight of a leopard drinking on the opposite bank just after our own afternoon tea break!
Separate from the main area is a refreshing swimming pool, surrounded by a sturdy wall to keep the elephants out.
Numerous activities are on offer from Chongwe River Camp. Both boat trips and canoeing can be done on the Zambezi River, while the slower-moving Chongwe River is restricted to canoeing. Fishing, best in April, September and October, is possible on a strictly 'catch and release' basis. The local specialty is the tigerfish, named for its striped body and razor-sharp teeth, but sizeable catfish and bream are also caught. Day and night safari drives are offered in both the park and the surrounding GMA. If you’re staying for a few days, opt for a full-day excursion into the Lower Zambezi National Park; this encompasses a variety of terrain 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 this species isn’t rare, they inhabit humid, forested areas, and the Chongwe area is one of the most accessible pockets in southern Africa where they can be seen.
Other species usually found only in this little-visited area of the Lower Zambezi valley is the diminutive klipspringer, which prefers the rocky outcrops found in these foothills, and bush pigs, which favour 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.
Friends or family groups travelling together may prefer to stay just down the river at the stunning, four-bedroomed Chongwe River House, which comes with its own chef, vehicle and guide.
Geographics
- Location
- Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia
- Ideal length of stay
- A three-night stay at Chongwe River Camp is ideal in order to enjoy the full range of activities offered, though you could easily stay longer.
- 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
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- Meals at Chongwe River Camp are delicious, wholesome and of a high standard. They are well able to cater for vegetarians, and other special meals are certainly possible if they are given advance notice.
Breakfast is usually a self-service buffet, taken at the communal breakfast table. There is always a good variety of cereals, yoghurts, juices and fruit. Porridge will be warming over the campfire and toast and eggs are made to order.
Lunch is usually a relaxed buffet, which often includes a selection of salads, fresh bread and a hot dish. We have enjoyed chicken sosaties (shish kebabs), quiche, rice salad, Mediterranean salad, a large green salad and freshly baked bread. For those who like a little spice, try the homemade 'Chongwe chilli'.
Dinner is a three-course meal served under the stars. On our most recent visit in 2023, we started with cucumber and celery soup with homemade rolls, followed by beef fillet with roast potatoes and a selection of vegetables. Dessert was a pleasantly light orange sponge dusted in cocoa powder. - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- If you are staying in the Cassia or Albida suite it’s possible to eat here for a more private dining experience.
- Drinks included
- All drinks available in Chongwe's well stocked bar are included in the price.
Special interests
- Honeymoons
- The Cassia suite at Chongwe offers a private and romantic space, while still offering the chance to join other travellers on excursions during your Zambia honeymoon. The suite’s private lounge, bar, plunge pool and outdoor bath add to the romance.
- See ideas for Honeymoons in Zambia
- Birdwatching
- With special species such as the red-winged pratincole, Verraux's eagle, Pel's fishing owl and the stunning narina trogon, which visits in the summer (Oct–Apr), Chongwe River Camp is a great location for birdwatching in Zambia.
- See ideas for Birdwatching in Zambia
- Wildlife safaris
- Chongwe’s location near the foothills of the Zambezi escarpment allows sightings of species that you may not see elsewhere on your wildlife safari in Zambia. Such species include the Samango monkey (Corcophithecus mitis), and the crested guineafowl (Guttera pucheroni).
- See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Zambia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children of all ages are welcome at Chongwe. Walking activities are only possible for children aged 12 and above.
- 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. Larger families may prefer Chongwe River House, which is a four bedroomed private house situated just a little down the river.
- Generally recommended for children
- We would recommend Chongwe for sensible, mature children who are interested in wildlife and will understand the full safety implications of being in an area with dangerous big game.
- Notes
- 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 by a parent or guardian at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Chongwe River Camp
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Chongwe River Camp have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
100% success
100% success
93% success
86% success
79% success
61% success
54% success
16% success
13% success
8% success
7% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There are international plug points in each of the rooms. The generator means there is power for these, as well as the lights, 24-hours a day.
- Communications
- There is limited WiFi available in the tents.
There is no cell phone reception around Chongwe River Camp. - TV & radio
- None.
- Water supply
- Other
- Water supply notes
- Water is pumped from the Zambezi River and is filtered. Showers and bathtubs are plumbed in, with hot and cold running water. There are flushing toilets.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The guides at Chongwe are trained in first aid. In a medical emergency, guests would be flown to Lusaka by light aircraft.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Nightwatchmen are on duty in the camp after dark, when they will escort guests back to their tents.
- Fire safety
- There is a fire extinguisher in the camps kitchen. Water hoses are available throughout the camp in case of fire.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Canoeing
Fishing
Night drive
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’ underwear which cannot be washed by the camp staff for cultural reasons. Washing powder is supplied for guests who wish to handwash any items.
- Money
- A stay at Chongwe River Camp includes all meals, drinks and activities. It is possible to purchase souvenirs, but otherwise the only additional cost would be any tips or gratuities.
- Accepted payment on location
- Payment in cash are preferred in US dollars and Zambian kwacha. Visa and MasterCard may be used with a surcharge. Amex is not accepted.
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Chongwe River Camp's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Chongwe River Camp.
Other lodges in Lower Zambezi National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Old Mondoro Bushcamp
For an intimate safari in the Lower Zambezi, with superb guiding, Old Mondoro is up there with the best.
Chiawa Camp
One of Zambia's top safari camps, Chiawa is family owned and run, offering superb service and a flexible approach from a location well inside the Lower Zambezi National Park.
Sausage Tree Camp
Sausage Tree is a high-quality safari camp offering a luxurious stay and excellent personal service deep inside Zambia's Lower Zambezi National Park.
Potato Bush Camp
Potato Bush is located right in the heart of the Lower Zambezi National Park, with privately guided activities taking you on game drives, walks, boat trips and canoeing.
Anabezi Luxury Camp
Anabezi Luxury Tented Camp offers a high degree of understated luxury in a very lovely, quiet part of the Lower Zambezi with outstanding wildlife.
Amanzi
Opened in 2015, Amanzi is an intimate and rustic yet luxury camp in a very quiet area of the Lower Zambezi, with plenty of wildlife and good birding.
Kutali Camp
Kutali Camp offers the opportunity to experience the wilderness of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, in this simple tented camp located on Kulefu Island.
Chongwe River House
Chongwe River House is a stylish four-bedroom house designed for the exclusive use of families and small groups, affording the ultimate in flexibility on safari.
Chula Island Camp
Chula Island Camp offers the opportunity to experience the wilderness of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, in this simple fly-camp located in a natal mahogany grove on a small island on the Zambezi River.
Lolebezi
A chic safari spot, luxurious Lolelbezi is the Lower Zambezi’s newest camp and offers a mix of walking, canoeing and game drives led by excellent guides.
Royal Zambezi Lodge
This family-friendly lodge is located just on the outskirts of the Lower Zambezi National Park, in a great location overlooking the river.
When to go to Lower Zambezi National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Chongwe River Camp in Lower Zambezi National Park
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Lower Zambezi National Park in January
At the peak of Lower Zambezi's green season, expect heavy rainfall for a few hours on many days with sunny spells in between. Temperatures remain high, reaching over 30°C/86°F with high humidity. The landscape is lush and green, but wildlife disperses, making game viewing challenging. The thick vegetation limits walking safaris. However, this is an excellent time for birdwatching as migrant species boost the park's bird count.
Many camps close during this period, but those remaining open offer their lowest rates. The Zambezi River swells, creating spectacular scenes along its banks. Boat safaris can be particularly rewarding, offering chances to spot hippos, crocodiles, and various waterbirds. Despite the challenges, the park's beauty during this wet season is undeniable, with vibrant colours and dramatic skies.
- Peak of rainy season, hot and humid
- Most camps closed, limited accessibility
- Lush green landscape, great for photography
- Dispersed wildlife, challenging game viewing
- Lowest visitor numbers, cheapest rates
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Lower Zambezi National Park in February
February remains in the heart of the green season in Lower Zambezi National Park. Dramatic thunderstorms deliver a few hours of rain most days, interspersed with clear sunny skies.
The abundance of water disperses game, making wildlife viewing more challenging. However, the swollen Zambezi River allows for unique boat safaris, offering close encounters with hippos and crocodiles. Birdwatching is excellent, with many migratory species present. The lush vegetation creates a picturesque backdrop for photography.
While game drives may be less productive, canoeing trips can be particularly rewarding, allowing quiet approaches to wildlife along the riverbanks. The few camps that remain open charge their lowest rates, providing an opportunity for budget-conscious travellers to experience the park's wet season beauty.
- Continued rainy season, hot and humid
- Many camps still closed, limited options
- Green landscape, photographic opportunities
- Difficult game viewing due to thick vegetation
- Low visitor numbers, affordable rates
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Lower Zambezi National Park in March
March marks the last month of the green season in the Lower Zambezi. Heavy downpours still occur most days, with water levels at their highest. Temperatures reach over 30°C/86°F, with high humidity.
While many camps remain closed, those few remaining open offer unique wet season experiences. Boat safaris are particularly exciting, with the swollen Zambezi River providing extended exploration areas. Wildlife sightings may be sporadic, but many animals are raising young, offering heartwarming scenes.
Predators like lions and wild dogs are active, taking advantage of vulnerable prey. The lush, green landscape and clear air create stunning photographic opportunities. Birdwatching remains excellent as thousands of birds prepare for their winter migration. Despite challenges, March offers a different perspective of the park's ecosystem.
- Late rainy season, occasional showers
- A few camps begin to reopen
- Landscape still green, good for photography
- Improved wildlife viewing as vegetation thins
- Few visitors; rates for camps low
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in March
Lower Zambezi National Park in April
As the rains transition to lighter, sporadic showers, April marks a period of change in Lower Zambezi National Park. The landscape remains exceptionally green and lush. While larger wildlife viewing may be sparse, this is an excellent time for birding enthusiasts.
The Zambezi River is at its highest, creating spectacular scenes along its banks. Boat safaris offer unique perspectives of the flooded landscape. As camps slowly start to reopen, visitors can enjoy lower off-season rates. The park's famous canoe safaris become increasingly viable as water levels stabilise.
Night game drives can be particularly rewarding, offering chances to spot nocturnal animals like civets and genets. April's transitional nature provides a blend of wet and dry season experiences.
- End of rainy season, drier conditions
- More camps open, better accessibility
- Landscape transitioning, good for photos
- Improved game viewing, animals more visible
- Visitor numbers rise, rates remain low
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
Lower Zambezi National Park in May
May typically marks the start of the dry season in the Lower Zambezi. While there's a chance of an odd shower, most days are clear and sunny. As winter approaches, daytime temperatures reach highs of around 26°C/79°F. The landscape begins to dry out, improving access throughout the park.
Most camps reopen, offering a wider range of accommodation options. Game viewing improves significantly as animals start to congregate around permanent water sources. Boat safaris on the Zambezi River become increasingly popular, offering close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.
Walking safaris resume, providing intimate wildlife experiences. May's pleasant weather and improved game viewing make it an excellent time to visit, with some camps still offering shoulder season rates.
- Start of dry season, cooler temperatures
- Most camps open, full range of activities
- Landscape drying, clearer wildlife sightings
- Excellent time for walking safaris
- Visitor numbers increase, rates go up
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
Lower Zambezi National Park in June
The Lower Zambezi sees virtually no rainfall in June, with sunny days predominating. Humidity drops dramatically, and temperatures range from 10°C/50°F at night to 25°C/77°F during the day. The landscape remains relatively lush, but vegetation starts to thin, significantly improving game viewing.
All camps in the park are open, some offering shoulder-season rates. The Zambezi River's water levels begin to recede, concentrating wildlife along its banks. This is an excellent time for canoe safaris, offering unique perspectives of the park's ecosystem.
Game drives become increasingly productive, with higher chances of spotting predators like lions and leopards. June's pleasant temperatures and improved wildlife sightings make it a popular month for visitors.
- Dry season, cool days and cold nights
- All camps open, peak activity options
- Improved wildlife viewing around water sources
- Prime time for walking safaris and game drives
- High season begins, increased rates
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Lower Zambezi National Park in July
As the dry season continues in Lower Zambezi National Park, vegetation thins and water becomes scarcer. Wildlife is starting to cluster around major water sources, particularly the Zambezi River, leading to excellent game viewing opportunities.
July marks the heart of winter, with daytime temperatures in the 20s Celsius / 70s Fahrenheit but dropping to single digits at night. Early morning and late evening game drives can be very chilly, with camps often providing blankets and hot water bottles.
This is prime time for walking safaris, offering exciting wildlife encounters. Canoe trips on the Zambezi River are particularly rewarding, with high chances of spotting elephants coming to drink. Visitor numbers increase, and properties charge peak season rates.
- Peak dry season, clear skies
- Excellent game viewing, especially near river
- Popular time for canoe and boat safaris
- Night drives offer nocturnal wildlife sightings
- Peak season, highest rates and visitor numbers
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Lower Zambezi National Park in August
August in the Lower Zambezi offers excellent game viewing as wildlife congregates around remaining water sources. With virtually no chance of rain, sunny days are almost guaranteed. Temperatures can drop below 5°C/41°F at night but climb to the 20s Celsius / 70s Fahrenheit during the day.
The thinned vegetation provides clear views of animals, making this one of the best months for photography. Boat safaris on the Zambezi River offer close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and elephants. Tiger fishing is at its peak, attracting anglers from around the world.
Walking safaris provide thrilling up-close wildlife experiences. This is one of the most popular months to visit, with camps charging their highest rates and often fully booked well in advance.
- Very dry, animals concentrate near water
- Outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities
- Ideal for photography and walking safaris
- Zambezi River cruises highly recommended
- Peak season continues, advance booking needed
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Lower Zambezi National Park in September
September is one of the best times to visit Lower Zambezi National Park for wildlife enthusiasts. Rain is almost unheard of, humidity is low, and daytime temperatures climb to the low 30s Celsius / high 80s Fahrenheit.
Water is scarce, concentrating wildlife around the Zambezi River and remaining water holes. Game viewing is at its peak, with high chances of seeing predator-prey interactions. Elephant herds are frequently spotted crossing the river.
Canoe safaris offer thrilling close encounters with wildlife. Night game drives provide opportunities to spot nocturnal animals like leopards and genets. Birdwatching remains excellent, with many species nesting. However, this popularity comes at a price: camps charge their highest rates and are often fully booked far in advance.
- Hot days, warm nights, very dry
- Excellent month for wildlife viewing
- Zambezi River at its lowest, great for canoeing
- Increased elephant sightings near water
- High season, camps can be fully booked
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Lower Zambezi National Park in October
October marks the peak of the dry season in the Lower Zambezi. Away from the Zambezi, the national park is brown and barren, with little ground-level vegetation. Temperatures can be uncomfortably hot, often exceeding 40°C/104°F during the day.
Despite the heat, this is considered the best month for game viewing. The scarcity of water forces animals to congregate around the main river, leading to frequent wildlife sightings and predator-prey interactions.
Boat safaris offer relief from the heat and excellent opportunities to observe elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Walking safaris may be challenging due to the heat but provide thrilling wildlife encounters. October is prime time for spotting large predators like lions and leopards.
- Hottest month, animals congregate at river
- Peak time for wildlife viewing and photography
- Excellent for boat safaris and fishing
- Chance to see elephants crossing the river
- End of high season, some rate reductions
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Lower Zambezi National Park in November
November typically marks the end of the dry season in the Lower Zambezi. While the timing of rains is uncertain, temperatures remain high and humidity builds.
Early November may still offer excellent game viewing, with animals concentrated around water sources. As the month progresses, the arrival of rains leads to rapid vegetation growth and wildlife dispersal. This transition period can be fascinating to witness. The initial rains bring relief to the parched landscape, with new growth attracting grazing animals.
Birdwatching improves as migratory species arrive in the valley. While some remote camps close, those that remain open significantly drop their rates. November offers a unique opportunity to experience both dry and wet season aspects of the park.
- Start of rainy season, occasional showers
- Wildlife disperses as water becomes available
- Good birding as migratory species arrive
- Lush landscapes return, photography improves
- Shoulder season, lower rates and fewer visitors
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Lower Zambezi National Park in December
December marks the start of the green season in the Lower Zambezi National Park. Heavy thunderstorms occur most days, interspersed with sunny spells. Temperatures reach over 30°C/86°F with high humidity.
The rainfall brings abundant water to the landscape, encouraging lush vegetation growth. While game viewing becomes more challenging due to the thick bush and dispersed wildlife, this is an excellent time for birdwatching. Migratory birds arrive, boosting the species count. Boat safaris on the swollen Zambezi River offer unique perspectives of the flooded landscape.
Many camps close for the season, but those remaining open charge their lowest rates. Despite the challenges, December offers a green and vibrant aspect of the park, with dramatic skies and fewer visitors.
- Rainy season in full swing, hot and humid
- Some camps close, limited accessibility
- Newborn animals, great for bird watching
- Challenging game viewing, but lush scenery
- Low season, cheapest rates, fewer tourists
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December
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