A unique haven of exciting wildlife and warm hospitality
The place to stay in the Lower Zambezi National Park
Location
Chiawa's location beneath a beautiful canopy of mahogany trees on the banks of the Zambezi River makes it the perfect spot to truly unwind and immerse in Zambia’s spectacular wilderness. You’ll love how the river gently flows just steps away, with the sounds of wildlife and bird calls in the background.
Rooms
There are six elegant Safari Tents and one exceptional Safari Suite, each designed to blend comfort with a natural safari charm. We love the raised wooden platforms that give you sweeping river views, and the airy interiors with soft, neutral tones. The tents have spacious beds, open-plan bathrooms with freestanding baths, and private decks that make early mornings and sunset drinks feel truly special. The Suite adds a splash of luxury with its own plunge pool and outdoor shower, perfect for those who want a little extra indulgence.
Amenities
Chiawa’s main area is a relaxed and inviting space, with a thatched dining room, lounge, and bar all elevated above the ground to maximise those stunning river views. Guests love cooling off in the pool or simply unwinding on the sun deck with a drink in hand. The food here is fresh and thoughtfully prepared using local ingredients, making every meal a highlight. There’s even a small exercise area overlooking the river if you want to keep up your fitness while soaking up the scenery.
Activities
Your days here will be filled with incredible wildlife experiences. You can set out on guided game drives in search of elephants, lions, and leopards, or take a serene canoe trip along the river to see animals from a different perspective. Walking safaris let you connect with the bush on a more intimate level, while night drives reveal the fascinating creatures that come alive after dark. Guests often tell us the variety keeps every day feeling fresh and exciting.
Sustainability
Chiawa Camp is genuinely committed to protecting this remarkable environment. They’ve gone Climate Positive, offsetting their carbon footprint through verified projects, and use solar power to reduce energy consumption. The camp actively supports local conservation groups like Conservation Lower Zambezi, helping to safeguard wildlife and combat poaching. They’re also part of Pack for a Purpose, encouraging guests to bring supplies for local schools and clinics.
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Best places to stay in Lower Zambezi
Lower Zambezi Trip Inspiration
When to go to Zambia
Find out the best time to visit Zambia with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is a good time to visit Victoria Falls, but the rest of the country is very humid and wet leading to many camps shutting during January.
February
February remains wet, so its a good month to visit the thundering Victoria Falls, however only a few camps stay open for boating and walking. The rains have created lush vegetation, during this time of year it is alive with the sound of migratory birds in their breeding plumage, an excellent time for birders to visit Zambia.
March
If you want to witness Vic Falls at its fullest, March is the month to visit, with huge volumes of spray often obscuring the view. The birding is still magnificent in March, and camps offer fantastic value for money as there are no crowds.
April
In April the weather starts to dry, however rain remains a prominent feature of April. In the Lower Zambezi National Park, lush vegetation is at its thickest making animals more difficult to spot. April is seen to be the best time of year to witness the rarely seen Wild Dog in South Luangwa National Park.
May
May is a mixed month, the onset of the dry season means rains are unlikely, however access to certain camps is tricky due to sodden grounds. Game viewing in South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi begin to improve as the vegetation things and waterholes begin to dry up, forcing wildlife together.
June
June is a great time to visit Zambia, the ground starts to dry out and camps are offering excellent deals and there are few visitors to share safari vehicles so you may have some areas to yourself.
July
July is high season, temperatures rise and all the camps are officially open. If you want to see game then South Luangwa is the best option, whereas the Lower Zambezi is perfect for river cruises and fishing.
Victoria falls is at its best, without being overly wet and clouded with spray.
August
August's hot and dry weather kicks off what Zambia is famous for, walking safaris. It is the prime time to combine game viewing with Victoria Falls.
September
Temperatures sore in September reaching high 20's making the long days particularly pleasant. This month sees Carmine Bee Eaters arrive, flocks of hundreds nest in river banks providing a thrilling spectacle of colour and sound.
October
October sees temperatures sore again, game viewing is best done in the early mornings to avoid the hot midday sun.
November
November brings the start of the rainy season, but the good news is the sporadic showers are not too disruptive and visitors get to see dramatic skies and stormy skies brewing. Temperatures are high and it can be humid, but the mixed weather brings great value stays. Plus many young animals are being born, making it a fantastic time to see the parks come to life.
December
The rainy season is in full force in December, grasslands begin to lengthen, foliage thickens and game viewing becomes a little trickier. The rivers rise and dependant on water levels travellers can visit 'devils pool' at Vic Falls, providing high excitement and a head for heights needed if you want to get close to the drop off.
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Alistair
Tamara
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