In this series of blogs we feature Wild Zambezi’s network partners which are Safari Lodges or Camps located directly on the Zambezi River within Zimbabwe. Check out our location maps, images and the links provided below to these beautiful places – all reliant on the wonderful wilderness surrounds of this magnificent river.
CHIRUNDU AREA: ZAMBEZI RIVER LODGES & CAMPS
Once the waters of the Zambezi River have made their escape northwards from the vast open expanses of Lake Kariba, through the electricity turbines of the Kariba Dam hydro-electric project, their passage is channelled between the high border mountains separating Zimbabwe from Zambia, through the narrow, 25-km-long Kariba Gorge.
When the river exits the Kariba Gorge, it spreads out to cover a much wider part of the Zambezi Valley passing under the two large road bridges at the border down of Chirundu and flowing past the Mongwe fishing camps towards the Middle Zambezi World Heritage Site complex of Mana Pools/Sapi and Chewore.
In the Chirundu area, there are five more Wild Zambezi riverside network partners (see pictures and numbered descriptions below):-
Nyamoumba Fishing & Birding Lodge & Camp (agent is Wild Dog Tours) – is situated at the point where the Zambezi River exits the Kariba Gorge - some 35 kms upstream of Chirundu and not shown on our map. It has 4 comfortable and stylish self-catering en-suite chalets with a central dining/living area, swimming pool, braai/barbeque facilities and four campsites set under shady trees at the river's edge (pictured). This is a perfect venue for fishermen keen to access the fast-flowing waters of the Gorge. Boat launch facilities are available.
Tiger Safaris – is a family-orientated self-catering or fully-catered fishing camp and wedding venue in Chirundu just downstream of the two road bridges that cross the Zambezi between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The River Camp is set on beautiful green lawns at the edge of the river and accommodates up to 30 people in 5 thatched, 2-bedroom chalets each with a central bathroom, kitchenette, braai/barbeque facilities. The complex includes a shared swimming pool. A sixth chalet (which sleeps 8) is located about 1km upstream near the bridge. Boat launching facilities are available and speedboats with excellent drivers and fishing guides are also for hire to visitors.
Jecha Point Fishing Lodge & Camp - is located about 3kms downstream from Chirundu and accommodates 12 people in comfortable, en-suite, stone-under-thatch chalets set in shady and lawned surroundings on the banks of the river. An attractive campsite with newly-constructed ablutions and a braai/barbeque pit can accommodate several parties of campers adjacent to the Lodge. Self-catering and fully-catered options are available as are boat launching facilities. The hire of boats and experienced drivers/fishing guides can be arranged. An attractive feature of this lodge is its raised wooden “tree-house” game & bird-viewing platform built into an Acacia tree and overlooking a watercourse behind the lodge. It makes an adventurous and romantic “first night boudoir” for newlyweds, and the lodge is a popular choice for weddings.
Tamarind Camp & Chirundu Safari Lodge - are situated on a private wildlife estate about 5kms downstream of Chirundu. The self-catering camp is set right on the river bank and sleeps 10 people in 5 twin-bedded en-suite tents with a central living/cooking area and a large wooden deck overlooking the Zambezi. Staff are on hand to help and to provide security for vehicle and boat parking. The Safari Lodge is set back on a ridge about 1 km from the river. It overlooks a wildlife waterhole, is fenced and has 10 en-suite, air-conditioned bedrooms and a swimming pool. Activities include game-viewing, boating and fishing. This is a ideal wilderness location for small, informal conferences or workshops. There is a private airfield nearby and boat-launching facilities.
Halsted Safaris - is one of several privately-owned fishing properties located at Mongwe, on the Zambezi River some 20 kms downstream from Chirundu. The lodge bills itself as an upmarket fishing destination, with four, elegantly-furnished en-suite chalets with verandahs, built around a central living/dining/deck area with a riverside plunge pool. Fully-catered or self-catering options are available, and three fully-equipped Osprey speedboats with drivers/fishing guides are on hand for visitor use. Activities include dining in the wild, boat cruises, fishing, and game viewing by boat.
If you have visited any of the above properties and would like to tell us about your experience, submit a Travel Review on Wild Zambezi.com at one of the above links.
Related blogs in this feature series: RIVER LODGES & CAMPS ALONG THE ZAMBEZI
Victoria Falls area - River Lodges & Camps along the Zambezi
Kariba Town - Hotels, Lodges & Self-catering options
Lake Kariba and Matusadona: Safari Lodges & Camps in the Eastern Basin
Mana Pools area - River Lodges & Camps along the Zambezi
Middle-Lower Zambezi area - River Lodges and Camps along the Zambezi