Zambian Ground Handlers

Safari Suite

The Safari Suite is the largest accommodation unit at Chiawa Camp and is positioned above the Zambezi and its floodplains, set apart from the main camp to allow for greater privacy. It offers elevated views over the river and surrounding habitat and is best suited to guests looking for additional space and seclusion.

The suite measures approximately 220 square metres and comprises a bedroom with a king-size bed, a bathroom with a ball-and-claw bath and his-and-hers washbasins overlooking the river, a separate loo and shower, and a lounge area with seating and daybeds that can be converted for families with children. Large folding and sliding doors open onto a private deck with an outdoor dining area, outdoor lounge, fireplace, outdoor shower and a 16-square-metre plunge pool.

The Safari Suite is equipped with overhead fans, international plug points, 24-hour power and complimentary Wi-Fi. The minimum age for children in the Safari Suite is five years. However, as the minimum age for Chiawa Camp remains eight years, children under eight may not access the main camp areas unless the camp is booked on an exclusive-use basis.

Safari Sleepout

For guests looking to spend a night a little closer to the wilderness, Chiawa offers a sleepout experience known as Star Drift, set along the banks of the Zambezi River beneath an uninterrupted canopy of stars.

The evening begins with a private four-course dinner served while drifting along the Zambezi River at sunset. After dinner, guests are transferred by boat to the Star Drift tower where a hot bath and a chilled bottle of bubbly are waiting.

The bed itself is set out in the open, allowing guests to fall asleep under the night sky with the sounds of the river and surrounding bush all around them. Camp staff remain nearby and on call during the night should anything be required.

In the morning, a continental breakfast is delivered at the time of your choosing, with freshly brewed coffee or tea, juices, warm scones and homemade preserves to start the day before returning to camp or heading out on safari.

This is a lovely addition to a stay at Chiawa and is particularly popular for honeymoons, anniversaries or simply for those wanting to spend a memorable night out in the Lower Zambezi.

Advance reservations are recommended.

Safari Tents

Safari Tents I – VIII at Chiawa Camp were completed in 2020 and represent the camp’s newer tented accommodation. Built in Chiawa’s classic style, they offer more space and additional features while remaining true to the traditional safari tent design.

Each tent blends naturally into its surroundings and is furnished with pieces made by local craftsmen using locally sourced materials. The tents are approximately 100 square metres in size, with canvas roofs (Tents VII and VIII have thatched roofs), canvas walls and screened windows for airflow.

Inside is a super-king bed that can also be configured as two oversized singles, set beneath a large mosquito net with an overhead fan. There is also a small lounge area and the option to add a third bed or bunk bed for families.

The bathroom includes a ball-and-claw bath, double vanity basins, an indoor toilet and shower, along with a spacious dressing area and ample luggage storage.

A large sliding door opens onto a shaded veranda with an outdoor “waterfall” shower, a small dining table, comfortable safari chairs and Chiawa’s signature “bench wallow”, which can be used as a sunken lounge or converted into a plunge pool.