Tusk and Mane

The Zambezi river is magnificent with smaller magic channels that branch off from the main river that are highly productive with wildlife sightings. They are lined with delicate aquatic flowers, wading birds and grazing animals. The Lower Zambezi also has magnificent populations of big game. Buffalo and elephant are common, and move freely between Zimbabwe and Zambia, often grazing on the islands in the middle of the river. If you want to see elephants in the water or crossing the river, this is the place to be.

The major predators in the Lower Zambezi are lion, leopard and spotted hyena. The varied terrain (with many large trees) seems to suit leopards, whilst the large herds of buffalo attract prides of lion.

Tusk & Mane consists of  two fly camps (Kutali & Chula) which are situated in different habitats to give you the full Lower Zambezi experience. The camps are simple with old style luxury camping, under the stars and around the campfire. The key is the difference between both Kutali & Chula Camp in terms of atmosphere and location. The magic lies in the combination. Chula Camp is only accessible by boat, this gives it a wild and remote atmosphere and feeling. This little camp is set back from the main river amongst thick natal mahogany trees overlooking a lagoon and the main river. The focus is on walking and river activities here. Kutali Island is a classic Lower Zambezi valley location set amongst Elephants in a thick winter thorn forest directly on the banks of the main river. Access is an adventurous drive through 3 river channels and all activities are offered at Kutali Camp. We recommend that you stay at least 4 nights to experience both fly camps.

Each camp consists of only 5 tents (stand-up height) which will have single comfortable beds with top quality linen provided (can be joined to form doubles on request), en-suite bathrooms with hot hanging bucket showers, flushing toilets and a washbasin with a mirror.

The canvas can be left open at night (spectacular views) but can also be dropped down if it is cold or for privacy reasons. These are raised during the day to allow for good airflow if it’s hot as well as the fact that you are able to view the Zambezi from your bed.

Two activities are offered per day and can be organised at the time according to guests’ preferences. Game drives in open-topped 4WD land cruisers are a fantastic way to see the park, a walking safari with a quality, qualified guide and armed Wildlife Police Officer is a MUST DO here. On the water, there are boat trips to explore the Zambezi, getting up close to relaxing hippos and crocodiles sunning on the banks and an impressive array of birds. It’s also perfect for photographing elephants up-close feeding on the edge, swimming or crossing the Zambezi.

The more intrepid might prefer to take to the waters in a canoe and float silently down gorgeous channels, passed Elephants eating under the winterthorns and birdlife galore including Pels fishing owl if lady luck is with you. Anglers won’t want to miss the opportunity to seek out the aggressive tigerfish or the powerful vundu. All fishing here is on a catch-and-release basis to keep our waters and fish populations in prime condition.