Chiawa
Chiawa Camp is situated in the Lower Zambezi National Park, on the banks of the river. The Zambezi is 1,700 miles long and meanders through the park, attracting much wildlife to its banks and islands. Children eight years and older are welcome in the main camp, while children five years and older are welcome in the Safari Suite but restricted from public areas.
Accommodation & Facilities
Chiawa is a luxurious private camp owned and run by the Cumings family, who founded the camp in 1989 when they pioneered safaris into the area. Chiawa is tastefully designed to fit in with its magnificent setting amongst a grove of mahogany and acacia trees.
The stunning Safari Suite is ideal for families and can accommodate up to four guests; two adults in the main bedroom and two children in the lounge. The main bedroom has a king size bed, en-suite bathroom and a lounge with sofas, arm chairs and daybeds that convert conveniently if accommodating a family. A 16m wide series of folding/sliding screen doors opens onto an outdoor dining and lounge area with private fireplace and a 16sqm plunge pool.
The eight superior safari tents have king size beds, his and hers washbasins, ball and claw bath, indoor and outdoor showers, a sunken seating area below the deck incorporating a small plunge pool, and fabulous views. It is possible to include a bunk bed for two children in the bedroom/lounge area in some of these tents. The camp has a thatched lounge with an upstairs observation deck, and the bar and dining areas look over the Zambezi River and the animals that regularly drink around the lodge. There is a lovely 10m pool surrounded by a deck, under shade, with a shallow ledge all around and steps, all overlooking the Zambezi so an excellent retreat.
Eating & Sleeping
Children can eat at times to suit and child friendly meals are available. There is a complimentary listening/guard service where nanny or guard will sit on the veranda of the room, or inside if preferred, with radio and torch until parents come back from dinner.
Wildlife & Activities
While staying at Chiawa guests can explore the beautiful Lower Zambezi National Park either on foot with an armed guide or can enjoy excellent wildlife viewing on both day and night drives in open 4×4 vehicles. Canoeing on the Zambezi River is also a great way to view the birds and mammals along the riverbank, or for those who want the more relaxed option sundowner cruises can be organised. Chiawa’s guiding team is also on hand to assist those who wish to fish for the world’s most aggressive fresh-water fish – the tiger fish – and a strict catch and release policy is observed.
Specifically for children …..
The attentive and dedicated team at Chiawa ensure parents get some time out if required by offering kids only activities and there are specific guides who are allocated to families who are particularly good with kids. Activities include:
• Nature walks – shorter and in safer country than the adult bush walks. Learning to track animals, identify plants and animals and basic bush skills.
• Picnics with the guide.
• Fishing by boat.
