We stayed at Old Mondoro for several days in June, as the last part of our 2 week Zambia experience (first time in Africa). It was probably the most rustic of the camps we stayed at, but there was no skimping on accommodations, service, activities or food. A couple of families were return guests, one couple had been to Old Mondoro for 10 years straight, and with plenty of camps to choose from, that says a lot! If we are lucky enough to have the chance, we would definitely return. Old Mondoro is small -- 4 well spaced and spacious cabins each sleeping 2, plus a family suite that can accommodate up to 4 people. The setting is very rustic, and it is right on the stunning Zambezi River, where hippos rant, elephants play, and all sorts of birds dazzle and enthrall . You are right in the middle of your own game experience! The leopard sightings here were one of the main reasons we came, and our wishes were fulfilled on the ride to camp from the Jeki airstrip. Our guide (Old Mondoro guides are reputed to be among the best) was following sounds and tracks, and sure enough, we came upon a mother leopard and her adorable cub. We followed them for quite a while, taking many pictures and were awed by their beauty and grace. On our arrival to the camp, Karen and Jonathon met us with hospitality and welcome beverages. They were wonderful hosts, offering advice, conversation, and even a recipe for some delicious apple muffins! The camp is intimate, and the staff will meet your every need. We went canoeing on the Zambezi, and had a bit of an exciting standoff with a macho hippo, other days we fished, and had a wonderful walking safari, where we encountered some elephants and other game close by. On a night drive, we had probably the most dramatic sighting of our entire trip: a confrontation between a male lion and a couple of leopards who were feasting on an impala. The lion won, and we were literally 15 feet away! Breathtaking. That's not all you'll see though. Elephants, monkeys, baboons, buffalo and hippos are prevalent throughout the camp, and each cabin has a generous back deck with a daybed where you can nap, read or simply watch the wildlife world go by. It's hard to describe the beautiful setting of this camp, every need is attended to, the food is absolutely fabulous, and the staff are completely at your service. Would you like to have fresh baked bread/rolls/muffins at every meal? Old Mondoro. Great selection of South African wines? Old Mondoro. The best Zambian beef you will ever taste? Old Mondoro. Breakfast round a firepit with hot coffee and good conversation? Old Mondoro. A variety of activities including game drives, walking safaris, fishing and canoeing? Old Mondoro. You will encounter bugs and lizards, but they are harmless and part of the bush (besides, the lizards eat the bugs). Our accommodations were wonderful, this camp was somewhat chillier in the evening than other places we had stayed, and every night, a hot water bottle was placed in our beds to warm us up. The outside shower and tubs were lovely. Laundry service was efficient. Highly recommended!
