Camelthorn Lodge

The large crescent-shaped thatched structure of the main area hugs an expansive outdoor patio, in the centre of which is a large camel thorn. Meals are often served here in the shade of the tree. The open-sided thatched room houses a large bar with wooden countertop and several comfortable sofas and seating areas. The decor is simple with dark wood, iron and touches of African art.

There are eight double-sleeping forest villas, each with a patio and a spiral staircase that leads to a shaded upper-deck game viewing area, furnished with a daybed - perfect for an afternoon nap. The structures are concrete and stone and feel more hotel-like than a bush camp. All the amenities are accounted for: an ensuite bathroom with shower and bath; a fireplace; plenty of light and a safe to secure your belongings. The surrounding woodlands ensure adequate privacy and the free-standing hammock is a lovely touch.

The activities available to you at Camelthorn will immerse you in the ecological and cultural richness of Hwange. The focus of your game viewing experience centers around the water holes, both near camp and in Hwange National Park itself. Around the camp, petit water sources dapple the forest floor - more like bird baths than a water hole - these attract antelope, birds and all manner of smaller wildlife. Game drives typically ramble from one water hole to the next and if the game viewing is good, will stay and enjoy sightings for a decent length of time. Walking with a guide here can be very rewarding - if only for the chance to switch off the engine and tune into your senses. These walks give you the chance to follow in the footsteps of some of the Big Five and Camelthorn lodge prides itself on offering its guests the unique privilege of walking with rhinos. While on foot, you can also duck into an underground game-viewing hide, which gives you a safe way to get close to the animals without disturbing them. As you watch, you will see animals ambling to and from the water hole, just meters away. To complement your game viewing activities, you also have the opportunity to contribute to the local community. Whether delivering food to attendants of the National Park, visiting the children at a rural school, or learning about the anti-poaching efforts of the Cobra Community Wildlife Protection Unit at Ngamo Wildlife Sanctuary, these experiences are sure to enrich your experience in Zimbabwe and give you deeper insight into the communities living there.