Chada Katavi Camp is a small and intimate camp, comprising just six spacious and comfortable safari tents, set under a canopy of tamarind and acacia trees. Each tent is raised on a wooden platform to offer panoramic views over the surrounding plain.
Some 20 years ago, the pioneers of this camp were the first to arrive in Katavi, and little has changed since then. Designed to blend into the bush environment, the tents are hidden in the shade of trees, with open fronts and shaded net windows to let in the breeze. The adjacent en suite bathrooms have flushing eco-toilets and hot and cold water. Safari-style bucket showers help control water-use, although there is no better way to wash off the dust.
The dining tent and library, both comfortable spaces in which to relax when you’re not out on safari, stand in a clearing. The camp blends into its surroundings, so much so that you don’t have to leave your verandah to see all manner of wildlife. Elephants are frequent visitors to Chada Katavi, attracted to the shady fruit trees, while buffalo herds graze on the plain.
Activities are based around bush walking (you’ll need a good pair of boots), with a guide and an armed scout, across the endless plains under vast open skies. You can watch elephants from close by, or wander along the river to see birdlife around the pools, plus the crocodiles and hippos that feature at Katavi. There is also an option to walk out to a flycamp to spend a night out under the stars, sleeping in a small tent made of mosquito-netting rather than canvas. Despite the three-course candlelit meal with chilled wine, the main event is being out amongst the sounds of the nocturnal bush, looking up at the night sky.
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