Sell Africa, from anywhere in the world
Sell Africa, from anywhere in the world
Bucket list travel
One of our staff members is pleased to share first-hand experience of her stay at the 5-star premium Mpala Jena Camp during her recent stay in September 2022. The camp is an intimate one, set alongside the mighty Zambezi River and is open-year round. Mpala Jena means ‘white impala’.
The camp is situated in the Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe and exactly 9.94 miles inside the park.
Arrival is by a 25-minute boat ride along the Zambezi River and the jetty is just 10 minutes from Victoria Falls town. On the way you can see elephants, hippos and maybe even crocodiles. This is a good property to combine with an activity to visit the iconic Victoria Falls, although it is far away enough to feel like you have escaped the vibrant town and unwind with the perfect Zimbabwe luxury safari.
Upon arrival, your client is greeted by the entire staff and management – a sure way to feel like a VIP. Arrival takes place at the bottom of a sandy hill and there is no boardwalk, so not recommended for those travelers with walking hindrances or disability, although they do offer wheelchair access and reduced mobility rooms. While your client unwinds with refreshing towels and welcome drink and soak up the surroundings, their luggage is whisked away to an opulent tent. The staff brief all guests on meals, activities and options for the next few days of their stay. The main area has thatched roofs and the sand floor in the bar area is a special touch.
The bar is like a beach area and is surrounded by hammocks, all-weather bean bags and leads out to the adjacent swimming pool. Sitting back and relaxing on the pool loungers reading a good book is definitely recommended after the morning game drive. This is the perfect area for your clients to take off their shoes and relax.
The bar is like a beach area and is surrounded by hammocks, all weather bean bags and it leads out to the adjacent swimming pool
Meals are served at the lunch and dinner table which are in the center.
The lodge can provide a telephoto lens for cameras and the staff are able to download photos that your clients can add to a memory stick.
There are 5 flowing air-conditioned canvas en-suite luxury tents so the camp is recommended for those wanting an intimate stay without the crowds. Out of the 5 tents – tent number 4 has two bedrooms with two bathrooms. The suites which all face the water, are expansive with a Zanzibar feel and have a large freestanding tub, indoor and outdoor showers, a minibar in the room and there is even a private plunge pool with amazing views over the river with a spacious decked terrace. Decor is modern with crisp white linen and furniture. Nothing could be faulted about the decor or the spacing
There is even a private plunge pool with amazing views over the River with a spacious decked terrace
As you settle in your comfortable king size bed, you will hear the sounds of nature and the wind rustling in the trees as you fall asleep. A perfect ending to your day in the bush.
World-class services come in the form of a butler who will do your clients laundry if required.
There is a morning and late afternoon game drive offered in Toyota Land Cruisers, to explore the surroundings in the park with experienced and professional guides. We saw a lot of elephants. Both times of the day are recommended as you will see spectacular sunrises and sunsets. One thing that was noticeable is that the animals are not used to vehicles so you know you are on a ‘true safari’. The guides also provide you with a lot of local knowledge and share wonderful stories of their adventures.
There is a morning and late afternoon game drive offered in Toyota Land Cruisers, to explore the surroundings in the park with experienced and professional guide
There are also walking trails leading out from the camp for a guided nature walk. Friendly staff are on hand to send you off and welcome you back for the activities.
I would also recommend a wonderful massage.
Although not on an activity, the team do go out of their way to set up unique locations for meals e.g. breakfast on a sandy island and of course a highlight was the bush dinner – which was out of this world.
Although not on an activity, the team do go out of their way to set up unique locations for meals e.g. breakfast on a sandy island
There is a good mix of land and water based activities as you do a river cruise on the untamed Zambezi River and also catch-and-release fishing is available with plenty of tiger fish, catfish and bream. The water is definitely more the focus for game activities.
Catch-and-release fishing is available with plenty of tiger fish, catfish and bream
The beach area is suitable for ‘younger travelers’, although with the price point it is for a luxury safari goer that wants to stay in a private concession. Ideal for travelers who are very keen on a luxurious camp that focuses on conservation and wildlife – as Great Plains Conservation camps are well known for. The camp has solar-powered electric supply and used recycled hardwood in the construction of the camp.
As there are over four hundred bird species it is a bird lover’s paradise for those wanting to do bird watching. Listen out for the cry of the African fish-eagle that provides a great backdrop.
Quick fire questions
Why do you like it? Arrival by boat – this is the best selling point.
What do you think could be improved? The Internet is not reliable, but it is available. This is offered complimentary.
What would you combine with this lodge? I would suggest 3 or 4 nights in Hwange National Park so you get to experience 2 good safari destinations in Zimbabwe.
Do they accept kids? Yes, Mpala Jena welcomes families with children from 6 years old.
Do the suites have plunge pools? Yes and also a main swimming pool
Amazing detail that you absolutely loved about the property? I think the food is fantastic with the interactive kitchen and the great selection of wines which can be hand-selected by guests out of the large wine cellar.
Get in touch with one of our travel experts at Grand Africa Safaris today to include Mpala Jena Camp in your client’s Zimbabwe itinerary.