Sarah Taylor Explores Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park

Greetings from Zambia! – Day 01-03

My name is Sarah Taylor and I am AAC’s Special Projects Coordinator. I have been blessed to spend the last three nights in the Lower Zambezi National Park staying at Chiawa Camp. What a spectacular camp in a truly glorious region of Zambia. Chiawa is intimate in size with only nine tents and is ideally positioned on the Zambezi River with every tent enjoying spectacular views of the river. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay in the decadent Safari Suite, with its own plunge pool and expansive deck.

The wonderful staff has gone out of its way to personalize every activity – from morning and night game drives, to guided walks, canoeing and boating. One of my favorites was a surprise lunch on a river cruise. The game viewing has been incredible and I was thrilled to see so many lions, as well as leopard, elephant, several types of owl and eagles (just to name a few).

A special thanks to camp manager, Simon and hostess Juliette – who are both stellar examples of the Chiawa team. I am sad to leave but excited to continue my adventure with its sister camp, Old Mondoro. Be sure to check back for my next update as I explore the Lower Zambezi.

Hello again from the Lower Zambezi National Park – Day 04-06

My adventure has continued to Old Mondoro Camp, sister camp to Chiawa. I have thoroughly enjoyed my three nights at this rustic bush camp. With only four reed chalets, this is one of the most intimate camps I have had the privilege to visit. The camp sits directly on the Zambezi River and with only one other camp nearby, this region of the park feels very private.

Activities include morning and night game drives, guided walks, boating and canoeing. One of my favorite days was canoeing on the “Discovery Channel.”  This tributary parallels the Zambezi River and is the ideal place to canoe at a relaxing pace and view the wildlife, which included a herd of buffalo, a variety of antelope, several elephants and of course, hippos (including one large male aptly named “Mr. Grumpy”). I loved every second of our adventure and highly recommend the activity to guests.

The team at Old Mondoro is headed up by camp manager, Michelle, who is just wonderful and made very guest feel special. We adored all the staff including guides Sebastian and James.

The Lower Zambezi holds a special place in my heart and I look forward to returning to Old Mondoro and Chiawa.

Visiting Livingstone and Thorntree River Lodge – Day 07+08

Sadly it’s the end of my safari adventure to Zambia. If you have been following along, I have had a wonderful week on safari in the Lower Zambezi National Park, staying at Chiawa and Old Mondoro. I bid the camp staff farewell and flew back to Lusaka and then onward to Livingstone. I was quite excited to be staying at the new Thorntree River Lodge and it exceeded my expectations! What a fantastic lodge! Located on the Zambezi River, the beautiful property features ten stunning suites, each with its own plunge pool and shaded deck. Just listening to the rushing water was pure serenity! The lodge includes several exciting activities including a visit to Victoria Falls, a visit to Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park to visit the resident white rhino and sunset cruises. I look forward to returning to the lodge in the future!