Set on the banks of the great Zambezi River under acacia trees that often attract elephants, Old Mondoro looks out over a maze of hippo-filled channels and small islands in the Lower Zambezi National Park. The camp is simple in style but with all the comforts active travellers need: the philosophy behind Old Mondoro is simply to provide you with an authentic safari experience, without distractions from the game viewing. An exciting activity here is guided walking safaris, and in this remote area where there are few other camps, this is an ideal activity.

You can also set out in 4x4 vehicles each morning and afternoon for guided game drives, or view hippos, elephants and other wildlife along the Zambezi from motorboats or canoes. There are plenty of opportunities for tiger fishing from canoes too, and Old Mondoro sits in one of Southern Africa's top birding regions, with 391 recorded species. Although this is not a Big 5 country (there are no rhinos) and there are no giraffes or wildebeest because of the topography, be on the lookout for 57 mammal species, including civets, genets and hippos.

'Mondoro' was an old lion that used to patrol the area and the surrounding plains are still full of winter thorn trees (also known as apple-ring acacias) that are a favourite of buffalo. The owners of Old Mondoro are passionate conservationists deeply involved with preserving Zambia's wildlife, and this passion is echoed in the camp's guides, who enjoy venturing out into the bush as much as guests do. The camp is open during Zambia's dry season, from April to November.

Highlights

• Simple and authentic bush camp on Zambezi River banks
• Active travellers will enjoy guided walking safaris
• Excellent game viewing and award-winning guiding - great for lion and elephants
• Raised suites with Zambezi River or channel views
• Personal, friendly service for a maximum of eight guests
• Owner-managed, personalised service, four guests per vehicle
• Officially carbon neutral and off the grid
• A true 'back to basics' bush camp in the heart of Lower Zambezi

Activities

• CANOEING
• FISHING
• FLY FISHING
• GAME DRIVES
• GUIDED WALKS
• NIGHT DRIVES
• RIVER CRUISES
• SUNSET CRUISES

As wild and authentic as you can get in Africa, this camp has a classic bush atmosphere and offers a complete digital detox. The reed chalets offer unparalleled views out over the river and lagoon. I loved waking up to the birdcalls and hippos snorting just metres from our room. This intimate camp offers a comfortable stay where you truly do feel at home, with excellent activities and passionate guides – it’s a camp that gets to the heart of what a safari should be.

Rooms

Bush Chalet

With outstanding views of the Zambezi River, the suites at Old Mondoro rest on raised platforms and have en suite facilities with flush toilets, washbasins and outdoor showers plus 'splash tubs' open to the sky. The showers and tubs are completely private but have lovely views, ensuring you do not miss a minute of game-watching!

The tents have open views during the day while canvas drop-down blinds with windows are lowered at night to provide more privacy. Spend time on your private veranda, reclining on your day bed as assorted animals stroll past.

All the tents are comfortably furnished and have king-size or twin beds with Egyptian cotton linen and are draped with large mosquito nets. In keeping with the rustic, no-frills atmosphere, paraffin lanterns are used to provide ambient lighting although electric reading lights and battery-charging facilities are available in each room for your convenience.

Facilities

The Main Tent serves as Old Mondoro's lounge and dining area and is set under a winter thorn tree overlooking the Zambezi River. The lounge has comfortable sofas for relaxing with a book from the small reference library or a drink from the camp’s bar.

Boats and canoes are available to go game viewing, bird watching and fishing on the Zambezi River. In the evening, sit around the campfire and listen to the sounds of the Zambezi and its wildlife.

Dining

The traditional bush kitchen at Old Mondoro creates outstanding meals and fresh bread baked daily from a homemade oven. An early breakfast snack is enjoyed around the campfire before the dawn game drive while lunch and afternoon tea are served in the main dining and lounge area.

The evening's hearty 3-course dinner is shared around the camp’s communal dining table. Expect dishes such as chicken breast stuffed with feta, cauliflower soup and salted caramel pudding.