Frequently Asked Questions
There’s been many excited guests come through our doors and so we’ve compiled the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions to help you plan your perfect safari adventure.
Mutemwa Lodge
When is the best time to visit Mutemwa?
The best time of year to visit Mutemwa depends on what you want to do:
Traditionally July to December have always been the best months for fishing. The river has dropped, water cleared up and temperatures begin to rise – making for ideal tiger conditions!
For those less enthusiastic fishermen who enjoy birding, photography, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Zambezi, March and April are amongst some of the most stunning months to visit Mutemwa. With the rainy season having just ended the river is full and flowing, the bush is lush and green, and the birdlife is at its peak — making for truly breathtaking surroundings.
What is the biggest Tiger every caught at Mutemwa and when?
On 10 September 2025, Yianni Pantazis etched his name into Mutemwa history with a 20lb (9.1kg) Tigerfish – not only the season leader, but also a new all-time lodge record!
What makes this catch even more remarkable is the timing. On the very last day of his trip, while making the journey back from the Ngonye Falls, Yianni landed this historic 20lb giant just upriver from the lodge.
This unforgettable moment crowned Yianni’s safari with the ultimate finale: a record-breaking trophy that will be spoken of at Mutemwa for years to come.
Where is Mutemwa Lodge?
Mutemwa Lodge is set on the banks of the mighty Upper Zambezi River, in the Western province of Zambia. Situated in the center of the Kavango-Zambezi TFCA our iconic riverside lodge is perfectly located in Africas Wild West.
Children at Mutemwa?
Yes, children are very welcome at Mutemwa. Many families have brought kids as young as five years old on our fishing safaris, and they have thoroughly enjoyed the experience — even catching tiger fish themselves!
Our experienced boat guides know exactly how to make the fishing fun and exciting for the kids, and we can always arrange options to look after children if parents would like to enjoy extended times fishing or some time on their own.
Additionally, as lodge owners, Gavin and Penny Johnson have raised their three daughters here at Mutemwa (read Our Story here), and so the camp is well set up for families and children. If you have any specific concerns, you are welcome to reach out directly for reassurance.
How do I get to Mutemwa?
There are three main ways to reach Mutemwa Lodge:
- Private charter flight – fly from Livingstone International Airport directly into our private airstrip – the most comfortable and seamless option.
- Kasane – Rd Transfer – Fly into Kasane Airport (Botswana) and take a road transfer to the lodge.
- Self-drive – possible without a 4×4, though border crossings can present some challenges.
For ease, Mutemwa can arrange both private charter flights and road transfers. Please contact us for more details and assistance with planning your journey.
Do you provide fishing tackle?
Yes. Guests are encouraged to bring their own gear and tackle but each of our four boats are fully equipped with both trolling and spinning setups for those wanting to travel light.
Please note that any lost or broken lures or gear will be charged to the guests account. A selection of Rapalas and Afrijigs are available for purchase at Mutemwa Lodge.
What is a typical day at Mutemwa?
For every guest it might look a little different, but a typical day at Mutemwa usually involves the following:
- Coffee & rusks around the fire at 6:00 am
- Morning fishing session until about 11:00–11:30 am
- Return to camp for a big brunch and rest
- Afternoon tea around 3:00 pm
- Back on the river until sunset
- Hearty 3-course boma dinner under the stars to cap it off.
When fishing upriver on the Ngonye Falls Safari, guests enjoy a full day out fishing over 80km up the Zambezi and the same for the return trip.
Do I need a fishing license?
No. Fishing licenses are not required in this stretch of the Zambezi River.
Fishing Safaris
Where do our fishing safaris take place?
We have one iconic fishing safari along the Zambezi River and three along the wild Kwando River.
Ngonye Falls: Upper Zambezi River
Silundu: Kwando River
Shangombo: Kwando River
Kwando Traverse: Kwando River
