A unique venue that seems to grow organically from the ground
Location
Tucked into a peaceful stretch of the Chongwe River, right where it meets the Zambezi, Chongwe House is one of those rare finds that feels both wonderfully remote and reassuringly luxurious. With the escarpment rising behind and elephants regularly ambling through the river shallows, the setting is pure wilderness magic.
Rooms
Designed for exclusive use, the house sleeps up to eight guests in four spacious, en-suite bedrooms. Each opens up to the outdoors, with canvas drop-downs that let in birdsong and fresh air while preserving privacy. We love the deep stone bathtubs and waterfall showers – perfect after a game drive – and the sense of being cocooned in nature while surrounded by thoughtful design. It’s ideal for families or groups looking to slow the pace and share the adventure.
Amenities
Everything here has been created with relaxed gathering in mind. The open-plan lounge, dining area, and riverside terrace lead out to a private pool and firepit, with a pizza oven and barbecue for al fresco feasts under the stars. There’s no set routine – meals, activities, and moments of stillness all flow naturally, tailored entirely to you.
Activities
Whether you’re tracking leopard on a private game drive, drifting silently past hippos in a canoe, or casting for tigerfish on the Zambezi, the rhythm is yours to choose. You’ll have a dedicated guide and team throughout your stay, so you can explore as much or as little as you like. There’s also a riverside wildlife hide for close-up encounters, and a star bed sleepout for the more adventurous.
Sustainability
Chongwe House is built using local materials and powered in part by solar. But what we really value is the work behind the scenes. Through the Time + Tide Foundation, your stay supports everything from anti-poaching efforts to girls’ education, conservation scholarships, and inclusive community health projects.
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Alistair