Mpala Jena | | Great Plains Conservation | Zimbabwe Positioned along the tree-lined banks of the Zambezi River within Zambezi National Park, Mpala Jena represents the pinnacle of luxury safari accommodation near Victoria Falls. Intimate, refined, and deeply connected to its natural surroundings, this exclusive riverside camp offers a rare balance of wilderness immersion and effortless elegance, just upstream from one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. With only five beautifully designed suites and the option of a private villa, Mpala Jena is crafted for travellers seeking privacy, personalised service, and seamless access to Victoria Falls. Days unfold with open-vehicle safari drives, guided walking experiences, river cruises on the Zambezi, and tranquil moments spent watching wildlife drift past from the camp itself. Between June and October, the area comes alive with high concentrations of elephants and buffalo, while the region is also known for having one of the highest densities of lions in Zimbabwe. In August 2025, Mpala Jena introduced the first of its two new three-bedroom Private Villas, located five kilometres upstream from the main camp. These villas elevate exclusivity even further, offering expansive private living spaces, riverfront suites, a swimming pool, and the dedicated services of a private butler, safari vehicle, and professional guide—ideal for families or close-knit groups seeking a secluded safari retreat. The main camp’s design encourages guests to slow down and reconnect with nature. A sand-floor bar area and riverside swimming pool invite barefoot relaxation, while swing chairs overlooking the water create the perfect setting for sunset cocktails. The camp feels effortlessly connected to the river, giving the impression of floating within the landscape itself. All suites are housed beneath flowing sand-coloured canvas with canopy ceilings and open, netted river views. Interiors are thoughtfully curated by Tracy Kelly, blending natural textures with understated luxury. Each air-conditioned suite features a private shaded veranda, an elegant en-suite bathroom with indoor shower and double vanity, and a standout outdoor bathing experience complete with a bathtub and open-air shower. From the deck, uninterrupted views stretch across the calm waters of the Zambezi, creating a sense of constant connection to the wild. Sustainability is central to Mpala Jena’s philosophy. The camp is fully powered by solar energy, with materials and construction methods carefully chosen to minimise environmental impact while maintaining exceptional comfort. Conveniently located just 19 kilometres inside the national park, Mpala Jena is easily accessed via a scenic 40-minute boat transfer from Victoria Falls town, with road transfers also available. Many guests choose to extend their journey onward to other Great Plains Conservation camps in Zimbabwe or Botswana, creating a richly layered African safari experience.