Planning a trip to Africa is an adventure in itself. The thrill of heading to the other side of the world in search of wild landscapes and authentic encounters is unlike anything else. This time, our destination takes us deep into Zimbabwe, along the eastern edge of Mana Pools National Park, to a sanctuary known as Chikwenya.
Often described as a photographer’s paradise, Chikwenya offers breathtaking views over a floodplain, the wide Zambezi River, and the dramatic backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment. Towering albida and Natal mahogany treesprovide much-needed shade during the hottest hours of the day. In the dry season, the albida trees drop their protein-rich pods, a vital food source for many species—especially elephants.
Chikwenya’s seven luxury tents are perched on elevated wooden decks, connected by pine walkways to the camp’s main area. The dining room and bar are perfect for laid-back afternoons, while the pool and terrace offer open-air spaces to take in the surrounding wildlife and nature in its purest form.
What to Do
Game Drives
Whether it’s your first visit to Africa or your tenth, game drives remain one of the best ways to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Chikwenya offers both day and night drives with exclusive access to a stunning stretch of the Zambezi River, the forests of Mana Pools, the Sapi River, and the fertile floodplains that define the region.
Catch and Release Fishing
Fishing has long been part of the region’s traditions. The mighty Zambezi River is teeming with tigerfish, known for their ferocious looks and fighting spirit. Landing one is not only a thrill but also considered a sign of good luck.
Guided Forest Walks
Beneath the canopy of trees along the Zambezi, you’ll discover a different kind of safari: guided nature walks with local experts. Wildlife here is abundant and diverse—every turn reveals something new, from tracks in the sand to the unexpected call of a nearby animal.
Wildlife by Boat
Cruising along the river offers a serene way to observe animals that frequent its banks. From aquatic birds to hippos and buffalo, each journey brings close encounters with species drawn to the water.
Birdwatching
With its rich avian biodiversity, Chikwenya is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Even those new to birding will find themselves captivated by the explosion of color, sound, and movement, as rare and native species gather in this untouched landscape.
Sunset Cruises
It’s been said before, and we’ll say it again: there are no sunsets quite like the ones in Africa. Watching the sun cast its golden-orange glow over the Zambezi River from a boat is the kind of moment that stays with you forever.
Conservation Projects
For over two decades, Wilderness Safaris has built its model on conservation-based tourism, supporting both local communities and wildlife. In recent years, the camp’s efforts have focused on the repopulation of the endangered African wild dog—also known as the painted dog.
After a long conflict between a local community and a wild dog pack, Wilderness Safaris relocated the animals to Mana Pools National Park in 2019. Within a year, the population grew from nine to nineteen, and the dogs were successfully released into the wild. In partnership with the NGO Painted Dog Conservation, the camp has built secure bomas (enclosures) to shelter and protect these animals as part of the rewilding process.
Across all of Wilderness’s camps, the company strives to understand local challenges and create positive environmental impact wherever they operate.
When to Go
Chikwenya Camp is open from April to November, with autumn being the most rewarding time to visit. During this season, animals gather in greater numbers around the camp, offering spectacular wildlife sightings.
wilderness-safaris.com
Text by: María Zapata
Photos: Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris
