Compiling this list for the #ChooseChanga campaign was great fun, although our list of reasons on why Changa Safari Camp is the best place to stay in Kariba, exceeded 22, so we have kept some to share with you on another day! If you have not yet experienced our unspoilt piece of paradise in Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe, then read on to find out what is in store for you…
1. Food
If you are looking for freshly prepared gourmet meals, served with a view and combined with warm hospitality then this is the place for you. Our Head Chef, James Chareka, will ensure your dining experience is memorable, with each day bringing you something delicious and new to look forward to.
2. Sunset Cruise
Lake Kariba has been said to have some of the best sunsets in the world, so unsurprisingly being able to soak up the last rays of sunshine on the vast glassy water on a relaxing sunset cruise, tops the list for us.
3. Bathing Under the Stars
Listening to the sounds of the wild, enjoying a cool breeze and a luxury bubble bath by candlelit, whilst gazing out at the starry sky, is arguably hard to beat. All our rooms offer luxurious “under the stars” bathrooms!
4 . Birdlife
With over 350 different bird species found in the Matusadona National Park, you will be checking off birds from your in-room checklist, quickly.
5. Solar Power
With all the beautiful sunshine in Kariba, we have utilized this natural free resource by having the safari camp operating on almost 100% solar. This new eco-friendly solar power system runs from 60 solar panels (15.6Kw) which are placed above the workshop and vehicle garage (not in the view of guests) where these panels work overtime by also insulating this once overly hot work-space. The solar panels charge up to 12 super long-life flooded batteries, which have been specially designed for our hot climate.
6. Sanyati Gorge
With just a short boat ride across the lake, you will be surrounded by steep cliffs for up to 10km through the gorge. The scenic Sanyati Gorge is unspoilt and undisturbed with an abundance of birdlife, small antelope and fantastic fishing so don’t forget your camera and binoculars, as this activity will leave you speechless with its dramatic landscape!
7. The Beach
With up to 4km of lakeshore frontage with white Kariba sand and lapping water from the lake, our beach area is a popular spot for our guests where they can enjoy private dining under the open skies or sitting around the camp fire.
8. Guided Walks
Experience the bush from a different vantage point, on foot, and truly experience being up close to wild animals where you can appreciate their magnificence from just a few meters away. A guided walk with your pro-guide will also provide you with ample time to learn about the beautiful flora and fauna that surrounds you.
9. Romance
If you are looking to celebrate a special occasion with a loved one, we would love to make it extra special by creating a memorable experience for you with a private candlelit dinner on the beach, a sunset cruise or lakeside sundowner set up – just let us know exactly what you would like and we can arrange it for you.
10. Cocktails
Relax back with an ice-cold speciality cocktail in hand by the refreshing pool, on a sun lounger and absorb the spectacular views that surround you.
11. Luxury in the bush
Designed to blend in with the environment using natural materials, each luxurious tent has been individually and tastefully decorated with an East African influence, providing you with a true authentic bush experience.
12. Location
If you are looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, then this is the place for you! Our remote and secluded location in the Matusadona National Park will allow you to really relax and leave you feeling rejuvenated after your stay with us.
13. Dining under the stars
Enjoy a romantic evening under the African skies with a selection of imported wines and deliciously prepared food.
A major attraction at Lake Kariba and especially along the shores of Matusadona National Park, is the fantastic fishing. From the world-famous tiger fish, a popular and thrilling sport for fishermen, to fishing for different types of bream which you can then take back to James to make up some delicious bar snacks.
15. Sprinklers
Discreetly positioned in the front of each tent amongst the trees, have been placed small sprinklers that you can turn on at leisure, inviting a flurry of feathers to your doorstep where you can watch the colourful birdlife darting in and out the spray to keep cool.
16. Matusadona Mountains
The rugged and beautiful mountains are the perfect backdrop when relaxing at the pool or from your private balcony. The beauty of the 600m high Matusadona mountain range offers superb photographic opportunities for all our guests. You can find out more about the Matusadona area here.
17. Hammocks
What better way to relax and listen to the sounds of nature than floating in a comfortable hammock outside your tent?
18. Sunsets
Lake Kariba is a superb place to watch a sunset, where you can truly absorb the beautiful red and orange colours that fill the sky and lake.
19. Homemade Iced Tea Welcome Drink
The ice-cold and refreshing ice tea that awaits your arrival is so delicious it will keep you coming back for more!
20. Guest Reviews
We love to read and hear about all your safari experiences whether it be on TripAdvisor or in our visitor’s book. Receiving your praise and knowing you had a wonderful stay is important to all of us on the team.
21. The little things
From the individually decorated rooms each with their own wooden carved animal and printed fabrics, to the array of treats that await you at afternoon tea, our warm and friendly staff are here to look after your every need, ensuring you have a memorable stay with us.
22. Easy to Get To!
Whether you are continuing your safari from Hwange, Mana Pools or Victoria Falls or coming up for a long weekend from Harare, Changa is very accessible by light air craft and road.