Tembo Plains Camp and Zanji Suite
Set within the vast, untouched wilderness of the Sapi Private Reserve in Zimbabwe, Tembo Plains Camp offers an unparalleled safari experience on the banks of the Zambezi River. Neighboring the famed Mana Pools National Park, this exclusive camp sits within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where guests can explore some of the most diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes in Africa. The camp's location provides exceptional year-round game viewing, with the Zambezi River drawing wildlife to its shores, creating unforgettable encounters right from camp.
The Camp
Tembo Plains Camp is an intimate and luxurious retreat that reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment. The camp features four spacious tented suites and the opulent Zanji Suite, each offering privacy, comfort, and direct views of the Zambezi River.
Tented Suites: The tented suites are designed to embody both elegance and comfort, featuring large beds draped with mosquito nets, en-suite bathrooms with rain showers and freestanding bathtubs, and private outdoor decks perfect for wildlife viewing. The decor is an inspired fusion of traditional Zimbabwean craftsmanship and modern safari luxury, creating a serene and welcoming atmosphere. Each suite includes a private plunge pool and outdoor lounge area, ideal for relaxation after a day of exploring.
Zanji Suite: The Zanji Suite offers an even more exclusive experience with two bedrooms, a private dining area, and a personal guide and vehicle. It also comes with its own butler and chef, ensuring a highly personalized and luxurious stay. The Zanji Suite’s spacious outdoor deck, complete with a private pool, provides uninterrupted views of the river and its wildlife.
Dining and Facilities
Main Lodge: The main area of Tembo Plains Camp is an open-plan structure with a comfortable lounge, dining area, and bar. Designed to embrace the natural beauty of the Zambezi River, the central space features high ceilings, large open sides, and shaded terraces, offering a continuous connection with the outdoors. The decor blends natural materials with contemporary design, creating an inviting yet sophisticated ambiance.
Dining: Dining at Tembo Plains Camp is a gourmet affair, with the camp’s chefs creating dishes that celebrate the region’s fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy meals in the dining area, on their private decks, or under the stars with a bush dinner experience. The menu combines international culinary techniques with local flavors, offering a dynamic and varied dining experience that caters to all dietary preferences.
Plunge Pools and Lounge Areas: Each suite features its own plunge pool, and the camp’s central lounge area offers additional relaxation spaces for guests to unwind. The viewing deck and riverside seating provide idyllic spots for enjoying a sundowner while watching wildlife along the Zambezi’s banks.
Activities
Tembo Plains Camp offers a diverse range of safari experiences designed to provide intimate encounters with the region’s rich wildlife and landscapes.
Game Drives: The camp’s expert guides lead morning and afternoon game drives in open 4x4 vehicles, exploring the Sapi Private Reserve and the neighboring Mana Pools National Park. The area is renowned for its large populations of elephants, lions, and buffalo, as well as rarer species such as wild dogs and leopards. Game drives offer the best opportunity to witness the incredible diversity of wildlife, especially during the dry season when animals congregate near the Zambezi.
Walking Safaris: For a more immersive experience, Tembo Plains Camp offers walking safaris led by highly skilled guides. These walks allow guests to explore the bush on foot, learning about the intricacies of the local ecosystem, tracking animals, and discovering the region’s flora and fauna.
Canoeing and Boating: The Zambezi River provides a unique opportunity for water-based activities, including canoeing and boating safaris. Guests can paddle along the river, observing wildlife such as elephants, hippos, and crocodiles from a completely different perspective. These serene water-based safaris are perfect for birdwatching and exploring the river’s diverse ecosystems.
Cultural Visits: Guests can also visit nearby communities to learn about the local culture and the conservation efforts supported by the camp. These visits offer a chance to engage with local people and understand their traditional way of life, as well as the vital role they play in preserving the area’s natural heritage.
Camp from $1205 pppns
Zanji Suite from $3616 pn