Tranquil Luxury in the Wilds of Zimbabwe

Where the Sapi and Zambezi Rivers meet, Wilderness Chikwenya offers an extraordinary combination of peaceful seclusion and untamed African wilderness. Situated within a private conservation area along the eastern boundary of Mana Pools National Park, this exclusive seasonal camp is surrounded by spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife.

Nestled beneath shady albida trees – a favourite with Mana Pools’ elephants – Chikwenya provides an intimate safari experience far removed from the crowds. The camp is open from April to November, with seven elegant suites overlooking the Zambezi River and the dramatic Rift Valley mountains beyond. Wildlife moves freely through the area, creating unforgettable encounters right around camp.

Chikwenya Moments

Set at the meeting point of the Sapi and Zambezi Rivers, Chikwenya offers privileged access to the remarkable wilderness of Mana Pools, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional wildlife and untouched landscapes.

Explore this iconic region in whichever way suits the moment – venture out on foot, cruise the waterways by boat or head into the wilderness on a game drive. Every experience reveals another side of Mana Pools.

Accommodation

Chikwenya’s seven beautifully appointed tented suites are designed as peaceful retreats immersed in nature. Set beneath indigenous trees, the suites attract regular visits from elephants, eland and an abundance of birdlife.

The camp features a soft, neutral palette of creams and natural tones, creating an elegant yet understated atmosphere that blends naturally into the surrounding wilderness. Two of the suites are family units and each includes a private swimming pool.

Cuisine

Dining at Chikwenya celebrates Zimbabwean flavours and local ingredients. Enjoy a leisurely brunch beneath the broad canopy of a Natal mahogany while monkeys and birds provide the soundtrack from above.

As evening approaches, relax with a cool drink and watch the Zambezi take on warm pink and golden hues as the sun disappears beyond the horizon. Meals showcase traditional Zimbabwean cooking, with dishes prepared over open coals and enjoyed beneath the stars.

The Magic of Mana Pools

Renowned for its extraordinary landscapes and remarkable biodiversity, Mana Pools is one of Zimbabwe’s most treasured wilderness areas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Acacia-covered plains, indigenous woodland and the mighty Zambezi create an ideal habitat for a spectacular variety of African wildlife. Chikwenya forms part of a conservation-focused landscape that helps protect this important ecosystem while offering guests an intimate way to experience it.

Activities

Game Drives

Explore the wilderness in search of predators, elephants, antelope and the other wildlife that thrives across the Mana Pools ecosystem.

Guided Boat Excursions

Take to the Zambezi for a peaceful water-based safari, watching wildlife along the riverbanks and experiencing the landscape from a different perspective.

River Cruises

Glide along the mighty Zambezi with a sundowner in hand as the river and surrounding wilderness are transformed by the evening light.

Tiger Fishing

Try your hand at one of the Zambezi’s most exciting fishing experiences, with the chance to land a powerful tiger fish before releasing it back into the river.

Birding

Discover Mana Pools’ remarkable birdlife, with hundreds of species inhabiting the forests, floodplains and waterways surrounding camp.