Old Mondoro Camp

The Shona word for lion is Mondoro. The name Old Mondoro is derived from the local legend of an old white lion that used to frequent the area. Although the old white lion has long gone, Old Mondoro Camp reflects the wild spirit that lives on in his descendants still roaming free in this unique part of Africa.

The camp is set in a grove of Acacia trees on the banks of the Zambezi River near the Chakwenga River confluence. It is a beautiful site overlooking a maze of hippo-inhabited islands and channels.  The area is characterised by vast flood plains and open woodland, which is ideal for walking and game viewing opportunities. This is very different from the rest of the Park, which is on higher ground with thicker bush and large inland lagoons.

Appropriately constructed of canvas and natural materials, the camp has an open and more adventurous feel yet provides a comfortable retreat after a day filled with excitement in the bush, where emphasis is placed on non-motorised safari activities.

Accommodating only eight guests and of traditional design, Old Mondoro is somewhat reminiscent of the mobile camps of East Africa, rebuilt from scratch and then dismantled each safari season. The "tents", resting on temporary slabs, have en-suite facilities with flush toilets, and canvas bucket showers and washbasins.

Furnishings in the tents are simple, with rustic shelving throughout, a coffee table and chairs in each. All tents have outstanding views of the Zambezi. Paraffin lanterns provide ambient lighting. The tents are left with open views during the day, and at night canvas drop-down blinds with windows are lowered to provide more privacy and security.

Two of the tents have two twin beds and two tents have a double, all with thick foam mattresses, comfortable bedding and large mosquito nets.

The Main Tent, which serves as a lounge and dining area, rests under a Winter Thorn tree and next to a Sausage Tree overlooking the Zambezi.

A traditional bush kitchen will supply outstanding meals and fresh bread baked daily from a homemade oven. The entire experience is unpretentious and uncomplicated, but promises a unique safari that gives guests the best bush experience possible.

The concept of Old Mondoro is to provide guests with an authentic remote safari that concentrates on the wildlife and bush experience. Here the call of the hyena replaces the hum of a generator and the harsh electric light is replaced by the soft glow of a lantern.

There are some excellent walking areas right out of Camp, and more just a short drive away. It is unquestionably the best walking area in the Lower Zambezi. Also on offer with the introduction of Old Mondoro will be multi-day canoe trips. Old Mondoro is a joint venture between the owners of Sausage Tree Camp and Chiawa Camp and these up-market trips will be unlike any other, as the entire trip will take place within the National Park, staying at Chiawa Camp and Sausage Tree Camp along the way.

Never before has so much variety been available in the Lower Zambezi. A weeklong visit combining Sausage Tree with Old Mondoro Camp is strongly recommended to enable guests to fully appreciate the natural spectacle that is the Lower Zambezi. 

Old Mondoro Camp is only open between 1 May to 31 October.

Children: Children 12 years and older are welcome. Younger children may be welcome through prior arrangement with management. Terms & Conditions apply.

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