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Chitake Springs, Mana Pools

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Chitake Springs in Mana Pools National Park is a growing talking point amongst photographic guides for producing raw, untamed wildlife action.

There are only three available campsites in Chitake Springs, and we have secured one during the prime safari season – when the lack of water during the dry season ensures a steady stream of thirsty wildlife and attendant predators. Our camp - Camp Chitake - is FULLY-CATERED and comfortable – freeing you up to make the most of the drama and expert guides. The action happens a short walk from the campsite, and for the rest, your main activity will be early morning and late afternoon bush walks.

This epic safari is for the adventurous traveller seeking the ultimate back-to-basics adventure

Overview

Length: 5 days / 4 nights
Group Size: Maximum 6 guests and expert local guides
Location: Chitake Springs, Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
Dates: 16-20 Sep 2024
28 Sep - 01 Oct 2024

From US$ 2,846 per person (5 days/4 nights)

Prices and dates

2024 Rates

COST PER PERSON

NO single-person supplement
Based on a total of 4 people at the camp

International

US$ 2,846

SADC

US$ 2,713

INCLUDES:

  • 4 nights' accommodation at Camp Chitake

  • All meals

  • Imported wines, local beers, spirits, mineral water, tea, coffee and cordials

  • Use of camping and canoe equipment

  • Services of a professional guide

  • All activities mentioned in the description above

  • National Park fees

  • Conservation levies

EXCLUDES:

  • All flights and associated departure taxes

  • Transfers to/from Camp Chitake

  • Visas

  • Travel and medical insurance

  • Items of a personal nature

  • Gratuities

Chitake Springs is a remote area in the southern reaches of Mana Pools NP – on the Chitake River, a tributary of the Zambezi River. The spring is a perennial water source in a usually dry riverbed and provides the only water source in the riverbed for concentrations of wildlife. Large herds of buffalos, elephants and other herbivores converge on the water – especially during the late dry season – and predators line the steep river channel banks to ambush their desperate prey as they drink.

You will be accompanied on all walks and game drives by an EXPERIENCED, QUALIFIED LOCAL GUIDE. Your safari day usually starts with an early wake-up for coffee and a selection of homemade muffins and biscuits. Your activities throughout the day will include bush walks, sitting near the camp to see what arrives to drink at the spring, game drives or resting at camp. Bush walks will be longer during the cooler winter months and shorter as the summer heat builds later in the year. Each day will be discussed and planned to suit your wishes.

Camp Chitake details:
  • This is a temporary bush camp that is erected during the dry winter season and taken down once the rains arrive in mid or late November

  • The camp has long-drop toilets, and each tent has a chemical toilet for use at night

  • A warm shower is provided on demand by way of a hanging bucket

  • The spacious tents have ensuite facilities for night use and comfortable beds with fresh linen

  • Tents are mosquito-proof via gauze roofs

  • The camp has a mobile kitchen with an experienced bush cook, bar facilities and a dining area with a waiter

  • All produce is fresh and prepared in camp; breads and pastries are baked over an open fire. Vegetarian and other dietary preferences are catered for

  • Breakfast usually consists of cereals, yoghurt, muffins, biscuits, pancakes, toast and jams. On the last day of your safari, a full English breakfast will be laid out for clients to enjoy

  • Lunch is usually fresh quiche, lasagne or similar, with a varied selection of freshly baked

    bread, salads and cheeses

  • Dinners are full 3-course meals with various starters, delicious main courses, and

    sumptuous deserts, all eaten by candlelight under the stars, accompanied by an

    imported bottle of wine

  • Drinks include a supply of local beers, spirits, imported wines, minerals,

    cordials, mineral water, tea and coffee


For a visual Chitake Springs feast:

1. Drool at this gallery of exceptional photographs from our 2020 Photographer of the Year – Jens Cullmann. But be aware that Jens’ observations about the conditions relate to the very peak of the dry season – late October - when he spent several weeks obtaining his images.

2. Check out this dramatic video of lions ambushing a large herd of thirsty buffalo. Spoiler alert: One buffalo does not make the trip back out of Chitake Springs.

3. Learn more about Mana Pools National Park

Ready to plan your safari?

How about other Zimbabwe safari options?

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Why us

Why us

We live here, in Africa, and have been doing this since 1991. Travel in Africa is about knowing when and where to go, and with whom. A few weeks too early / late or a few kilometers off course and you could miss the greatest show on Earth. And wouldn’t that be a pity?

Trust and safety

Trust & Safety

We are members of:
African Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA)
Southern African Tourism Services Association (SATSA)
✔️ Have Integrity ✔️ Are Legitimate
✔️ Are Audited ✔️ Are Insured

We are insured by Sutcliffe & Co (UK)

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Make a difference

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