Somalisa Camp, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

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We recommend a 3 night minimum stay

At a Glance...

Style: Classic bush camp with unexpected touches of luxury

Our opinion: Elegant, timeless 3 star plus tented camp where the emphasis is on providing a great 5 star wildlife experience

Accommodation: Six tents (4 twin and 2 double bedded) each with en suite open air bucket shower and flush toilet. Larger groups can be accommodated by combining Somalisa Camp with Somalisa Acacia

And the kids? Restricted to children of 6 years and above

Activities: Morning, afternoon and night game drives, bush walks and hide sits

Season: Open year round

Highlights: A small, intimate, remote, environmentally low-impact camp; Up to 40 elephants at a time visit the waterhole in front of camp

Somalisa Camp, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Located in the heart of Hwange National Park, along the Kennedy vlei line on the Somalisa flood plains

Set in a huge private concession in the heart of Hwange National Park Somalisa Camp is the remotest of all the Hwange camps. An authentic bush camp, Somalisa has mastered the art of blending understated elegance with African charm to offer an exclusive wildlife experience.

Its stunning location, tucked away on an acacia island along the edge of an ancient seasonal flood plain, gives it breath taking views of the savannah plains of the famous Kennedy Vlei. After the first rains have fallen the vlei transforms as it is littered with the flamboyant colours of seasonal wild flowers. Once the grass begins to dry out large herds of buffalo, zebra and elephant are to be found in abundance.

Having only 12 beds Somalisa has been designed as an environmentally low impact camp offering a barefoot luxury experience. Thoughtfully positioned to face the sunrise the tents are extremely comfortable and well thought out in terms of design and furnishings. The decor is reminiscent of a bygone era from colonial to ancient African tribes.

Tucked under a soaring canopy of trees the main guest area and pool lends to complete relaxation, whether it be with a cup of tea or a refreshing cocktails; overlooking the pan where herds of game congregate in large numbers, offering rare moments of outstanding nature. The plunge pool in front of the camp has been claimed by the elephants as it is not uncommon to find herds of up to 40 elephants including babies drinking out of it.

Wining and dining is an important part of the overall safari experience at Somalisa. Using organic produce and seasonal flavours the chef creates delicious cuisine that is an inspired fusion of Far East, Europe and Africa influences and complemented by a choice of South African and Australian wines.

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe's oldest and largest national park. It supports all the Big Five as well as kudu, sable antelope, zebra, wildebeest, gemsbok, the rare and endangered roan antelope, giraffe, hyena, cheetah, aardvark and various other nocturnal species. Activities include game drives and spot lighting as well as game viewing from hides. Guided bush walks are led by qualified and passionate guides who love nothing more than to share their knowledge and passion for the bush and its many inhabitants. Having said all this some of the best game viewing may be experienced whilst in camp relaxing on the deck or sitting beside the plunge pool.

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