Tinga Camp

Tinga's central dining, bar and lounge area is basic in terms of amenities, but more than comfortable enough to sit back and relax after a day's game viewing. A large circular structure framed with branches and sheltered by thatch, it's furnished with simple lounge chairs arranged in groups around low tables, cushions and upholstery in bright local fabrics, and has open sides to make the most of the views. Meals combine Chadian dishes with more traditional western cuisine.

This newly refurbished 40-bed camp offers accommodation in six simple chalets set beneath tamarind trees on the banks of the Tinga River. Each chalet has four twin or double rooms, including eight "superior" rooms with four-poster beds, and the Elephant Chalet, which has its own private outdoor seating area that's perfect for families. The cottages are more comfortable than glamorous, but all have en-suite bathroom facilities, individual mosquito nets and ceiling fans (Chadian summer heat can be blistering).

Zakouma's wildlife occupies the spotlight, as well it should. There's a bewildering array of mammal species and a richness of birds, including 5000-strong flocks of black-crowned crane, mesmerising swarms of red-billed quelea, Abyssinian rollers, bee-eaters galore, plenty of raptors, and waterfowl too numerous to count. Walking safaris along the river are a must, as is a bush breakfast or dinner (arrange at the camp). Enquire about the park's community outreach programme, visit nearby schools and browse the markets.