The Camp

Location: Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
Number of Tents: 7

Situated on the eastern boundary of Mana Pools National Park, Chikwenya is a photographer’s paradise as it looks out over an open floodplain and the broad Zambezi River, with a backdrop provided by the mountains of the Rift Valley escarpment. The camp is surrounded by a dense forest of albida and Natal mahogany trees, which provide deep shade in the heat of the day. The albidas shed their protein-rich pods during the dry season, providing vital sustenance for many species, particularly elephant. Chikwenya’s seven tents stand on low wooden decks with pine walkways linking them to the raised main area. The lounge, dining and bar area are places of hospitality and relaxation, and a pool and deck offer alternate spaces to enjoy the scenery and passing wildlife.

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Facilities & Amenities

• En suite bathroom with tub and indoor/outdoor showers
• Shampoo, conditioner, soap and lotion
• Room fan
• Tea/coffee in room
• 220v charging outlets in room
• In-room safe
• Central plunge pool
• Laundry included
• Local drinks included (house alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks)
• Credit cards not accepted
• No air conditioning, hair dryer, telephone, Internet or cellular coverage

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Wildlife Viewing & Activities

Mana Pools National Park lies at the heart of the Zambezi Valley, a remote, beautiful place with spectacular views. The area offers large concentrations of buffalo and elephant, while predators such as lion, wild dog, leopard and cheetah are often sighted. Greater kudu, Burchell's zebra, impala, warthog and common waterbuck can be seen on the surrounding plains, and the grunting of hippo can be heard all day. Bird life is superb, with numerous local specials like collared palm-thrush and racket-tailed roller. Day and night game drives provide exclusive access to a spectacular stretch of the Zambezi River, its woodlands, the Sapi River and fertile floodplains. Guided walks can also be experienced along the Zambezi River, among the riverine vegetation and under the shady trees. Cruise down this stretch of the Zambezi to watch the sun setting over Africa. Boating is a wonderful way of seeing large numbers of waterbirds and wildlife attracted to the river and seasonal pans.

Mana Pools' wildlife moves inland during the emerald season months of November to April, and camps are also closed at this time. In the dry winter, between June and October, the lack of water within the park brings wildlife in large numbers closer to the river. The below chart illustrates major wildlife sightings experienced in the area. There are no giraffe, wildebeest or rhino found in Mana Pools. There are a number of other small mammals, birds and reptiles found here. Exact sightings will depend on seasonality and wildlife movements.

Climate