Mpala Jena
Zambezi National Park
Mpala Jena is an intimate safari camp positioned along the beautiful tree-laden banks of the mighty Zambezi River. A haven that epitomizes “Barefoot Luxury” at its best. The camp is located on the white sandy edges of the river and in the Zambezi National Park, and combines the elements of both by using thatched roofs in the main areas and flowing canvas luxury tents for the bedrooms. The sand floor in the bar area, and the adjacent swimming pool, set the scene for guests to kick their shoes off and relax after their morning safari drive or river cruise. The pool lounge makes you feel that you are right on the river and is the ideal place to hang out with a book during the heat of the day. ‘Mpala Jena’ means “White Impala”. According to the local National Park rangers, when the Zambezi National Park was separated from the Victoria Falls National Park and declared a National Park in its own right in 1979, sightings of an albino impala were reported. The area under conservation, within the Zambezi National Park is 138,000 acres, and has a healthy and ever increasing number of wildlife species, with higher concentrations of buffalo and elephant from June through to October. It has..
become an absolute gem of a reserve with some of the highest concentration of lion per square km than any other Zimbabwean park. The river is a magnet for wildlife and ensures consistent sightings of massive crocodiles and hippos who make their presence seen and heard throughout the day and night. This area is perfect for bird watching throughout the year, but with a higher diversity of species from November through April.
In August 2025, two new Mpala Jena Private Villas will open nearby. Each Villa will feature a private main area, swimming pool, three luxurious riverfront suites, and the inclusive services of a private butler, safari vehicle and guide.
Mpala Jena has been created to be sensitive to the environment of the Zambezi National Park. This is achieved by using canvas and local thatch in its construction and ensuring all the camp’s electricity needs come from its solar farm.
The property is conveniently located eleven miles inside the Zambezi National Park, making for easy access to Victoria Falls town. Still, it is far enough away from the hustle and bustle, allowing you to relax and unwind whilst enjoying an incredible setting amidst the wild habitat of the Zambezi National Park.
Mpala Jena offers professionally guided wildlife viewing in open safari vehicles, guided walks, morning or afternoon boat cruises (subject to water level and seasonality), either in a motorized boat or under sail in a traditional dhow, as well as catch-and-release fishing. The camp has custom-built Land cruisers, and the vehicles are fully stocked with reference books, drinks and snacks. In addition, guests should take the opportunity to enjoy an excursion into Victoria Falls town, including a visit to the thunderous and impressive mass of falling water of the actual Victoria Falls during their stay. A half-day guided tour of the Victoria Falls is included for those staying for two or more nights.
Additional cost activities are available for those who wish to participate in the varied adrenalin and more relaxing activities that this tourist hub has become renowned for. Encounter the excitement of a day navigating one of the world’s most intense white-water rafting, partake in the numerous high wire activities at the Gorge / Lookout Cafe, conduct a cultural village tour, a historical guided high tea tour, or simply enjoy wandering the streets of this bustling tourist town.
AT A GLANCE
- 3 large canvas suites with indoor and outdoor en-suite bathrooms
- 2 large family suites each consists of two large canvas suites with a central lounge area between two en-suite bedrooms
- Private Light sand colored canvas roof and stone walls with wooden decking floors compliment the “barefoot luxury” feel of the camp
- Fly netting on all suite windows and doors
- Ceiling fans over beds
- Writing desk
- Air conditioning
- Main guest area includes a large thatch lounge with fireplace and bar with sand floors
- Outdoor fire pit with seating
- Communal swimming pool and pool pavilion
- Situated on 138, 000 acre Zambezi National Park
- Twice daily game drives
- Boating safaris
- Walking safaris
- In-room massages
- All Inclusive: 3 meals daily, soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beer, safari activities, laundry
- Wi-Fi access
- Solar power produces 24-hour 220v electricity
Fly netting on all suite windows and doors
