If you want to take part in an African safari holiday that genuinely benefits the local community, start with the doyens of cooperative spirit. CAMPFIRE are the pioneers of community-led conservation tourism in Zimbabwe and custodians of the stunning Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge in Gonarezhou.
It all started 40 years ago with Clive Stockil, founder of Chilo Gorge Safari Lodge and recipient of the Prince William Award for Conservation in 2013. Clive saw community involvement as the way forward for tourism in Zimbabwe, and campaigned tirelessly to win over both conservationists and the local people in order to set up his dream at Chilo.
His efforts paid off, and today poaching is down dramatically, the community has a new school, and is benefitting from employment opportunities at the lodge as well as financial remuneration from touristic activities.
Upscaled peace and quiet
Each lodge has been carefully assembled by local craftsmen out of wood, stone and thatch to offer sublime comfort, privacy, light and space without encroaching on the natural environment.
In the communal areas, a swimming pool dappled by shade, and an opulent lounge, library, bar and dining room provide all the home comforts you need, while an exciting itinerary awaits the adventure seeker.
Enter Africa
Clever use of glass and an elevated viewing deck mean that the sights and sounds of Africa are never far away, with panoramic views of hippos, elephants and crocodiles in the river below.
Guided safaris offer a sneak peek into the lives of these and other wild creatures such as buffalo, big cats and all kinds of antelope, unspoiled by the constant onslaught of safari jeeps so common in better-known destinations.
At Gonarezhou peace and tranquility still reign, giving you the best chance to enjoy Africa as it was intended to be. Red sandstone blushes pink in the sunset, untamed thorny scrub and towering baobabs dominate the scenery and everywhere you look you will find an Africa untainted by commercial tourism.
Activities on site
Seek out your share of the 400 species of bird found here on a guided walk, take a game drive, spend the night in a rustic tented camp, take a walk through rugged landscapes to the lovely Chivilia Falls or sip sundowners on the beach at Mahenye Island, – you can do it all at Chilo Gorge safari lodge.
Be sure to pay a visit to your hosts at Mahenye Village to see how the lodge is benefitting them and find out more about their way of life as you give thanks to them for allowing you to enjoy their bountiful home.
Chilo Gorge offers a southern African safari which epitomizes the harmony between community, conservation and the natural world. Get in touch and we will arrange it all for you.
