MANTIS OPENS BAINES' RIVER CAMP, LOWER ZAMBEZI VALLEY, ZAMBIA IN AUGUST 2010

- 27 May 2010

In the midst of the unspoilt African bush, set amongst the giant Tamarind and Jackal-Berry trees on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, in the Lower Zambezi Valley in Zambia, opposite the Mana Pools World Heritage Site in Zimbabwe, the newly built safari camp, Baines' River Camp, named after the legendary artist and explorer, Thomas Baines, is to be officially opened by world leading hospitality group, Mantis, in August 2010.

Baines' River Camp includes 8 colonial styled suites, each commanding captivating views over the Zambezi River. Each air-conditioned suite is refined with ceiling fans, colonial interiors, rich fabrics blended with leather, rattan, oriental rugs, granite and natural hardwood timber furnishings with a spacious covered verandah. The terracotta tiled verandahs include two-meter sofas, comfortable chairs and antique coffee tables allowing guests to relax in the privacy of their own suites, marvel at the continuous flow of the river and yet maintain a watchful eye for frequent visitors to the camp, including elephant, buffalo, various antelope, hippo, leopard and the rare and elusive Samango Monkey.

The main camp features a boardroom and library with seating for 20, open plan dining and lounge area, guest restrooms, reception with wireless internet facilities, a bar, warm fireplaces for cool winter nights and a refreshing pool for hot summer days, all with commanding views over the Zambezi River and Mana Pools. The boardroom and library is ideal for corporate functions and can be converted into a studio suitable for photographic workshops and incentive groups.

With over 60 species of mammals and 374 species of birds, the Lower Zambezi National Park and surrounds is the perfect location for game viewing, whether on foot, by game-drive vehicle or by boat with a qualified guide. Various water and land activities are on offer such as sport angling (strictly catch and release), canoeing, game and bird viewing, sunset cruises and bush-dinners.

Selected specialised workshop packages at Baines' River Camp include activities ranging from art, photography and birding to fly-fishing clinics, each hosted by internationally renowned experts who are passionate about their area of expertise in the African bush. For example, award winning photographers Roger and Pat de la Harpe will guide you through the versatile world of photography in the relaxing and ever changing scenery of the Lower Zambezi Valley. It's an excellent way to get in touch with like-minded people who enjoy the combination of photography, wildlife and, of course, the good life.

The intimate atmosphere of the camp with breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife and the kindhearted local people is not just an ideal location for an unforgettable get-away experience, it's also suitable for the corporate industry with its well appointed facilities, which can accommodate up to 16 guests.

Standard bed night rates range from $495 per person per night sharing, including two scheduled activities per day, entry fees into the Lower Zambezi National Park, community development levies, all meals and local beverages, same day laundry service and free wireless internet connectivity. Rates exclude private use of game-drive vehicles and boats, government taxes, fishing tackle and transfers between Baines' River Camp and Lusaka. Due to climatic conditions, all camps and lodges in the Lower Zambezi Valley typically operate their season from April to November annually. Owing to the nature of the establishment and its surrounds, children under the age of 14 cannot be accommodated.

Baines' River Camp is located in what is currently known as the Eastern Chiawa Game Management Area, soon to be proclaimed as the Chiawa Partnership Park, with the same protected status as the neighbouring Lower Zambezi National Park - a community conservation initiative spearheaded by the owners. The entrance to the National Park is a 20 minute boat ride from the camp. There are no fences in the area and wildlife roams freely between the areas and in and around Baines' River Camp.

The Royal Zambezi Airstrip is located nine kilometers from the camp. The drive between the camp and Royal Zambezi Airstrip takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on the wildlife along the way. In general, guests will fly from Lusaka (approximately 30 minute flight), Livingstone (approximately 1 hour flight) or any of the other wildlife areas in Zambia to the Royal Zambezi Airstrip. A game-drive vehicle, complete with refreshments and cold hand-towels awaits the guests on arrival.

Apart from the spectacular Victoria Falls, Zambia is blessed with many magnificent waterways, massive lakes and some of the last remaining true wilderness areas in Africa, along with an abundance of big game and fishing opportunities. Lusaka and Livingstone are serviced daily by a number of international carriers.

Visit the Baines River Camp Website