Slender Mongoose Safari: Day-by-day

On the banks of the Zambezi River, beneath a grove of mahogany trees, Chiawa Camp sits in the heart of Zambia's wildlife-rich Lower Zambezi National Park. Chiawa was the first camp in the park, opened by the Cumings family in 1989, and is still run by Grant Cumings. Over the years, it has evolved in size and comfort to a high degree of understated luxury.

"Staff and guides were good..All in all a lovely camp"

Mrs JDfromW London

Arrived 30 Sep 2019, 4 nights

In many ways, we think Chiawa is one of the best, and best-run, camps in Africa. The service and food are top-notch, with a team who tend to go out of their way to make everyone feel comfortable – and have consistently left us feeling that nothing was too much trouble. The camp manages to be luxurious, while still feeling homely and welcoming, a balance that can be difficult to get right. A good complement of excellent guides and a flexible attitude towards activities means that guests will usually get to do what they want, more or less when they want. We love it. See our full report on Chiawa Camp

Hidden deep in the Lower Zambezi National Park, Old Mondoro is small and traditional – with plenty of subtle creature comforts. Owned and operated by the Cumings family, the camp has long been renowned for exceptional guiding in a truly peaceful area of the park. In such experienced hands, this is a place where the wildlife comes first – so don’t be surprised to have an impromptu night drive if leopard are spotted during dinner.

With just four reed-enclosed chalets, intimacy here is guaranteed. Looking out over the water – the Zambezi or a natural lagoon – from waist-high walls, the chalets are as close to nature as possible.

Canvas flaps can be rolled down at night should you wish, and discreet electric lighting is on hand, but foregoing these “luxuries” simply enhances the connection with the bush. Few would begrudge the permanent hot water, though – especially if you choose to take a bath under the trees.

"Excellent bushcamp experience."

MrD & MsKfromGold Coast

Arrived 30 Aug 2019, 4 nights

The open layout of the camp allows wildlife to roam through unhindered. And as elephants are partial to the overhanging winterthorn trees, you may well have to let them finish browsing before returning from a hearty lunch to your chalet. That’s the deal at Old Mondoro – and it’s very much a bonus. See our full report on Old Mondoro Bushcamp