Nkwali Camp

Overview

Location: Zambia
Accommodation Type: Lodge
Comfort Level: Luxury

Good For: Solo, Couple/Romantic, Family |

Nkwali Camp is located in an ancient ebony grove on a meander in the Luangwa River. It borders on the world-renowned South Luangwa National Park, at the end of the Great Rift Valley. Along the river’s banks, the unspoilt wilderness and abundance of wildlife are breathtaking. The perennial Luangwa River is the very life-blood of the park and it ensures a permanent supply of water to support high concentrations of wildlife.

The camp is centred on an enormous Ebony tree. The common area features a bar built around the big tree, and guests can enjoy views of a small nearby lagoon, the Luangwa River and the vast wilderness beyond. The atmosphere is quiet and secluded, with just 12 guests accommodated in six A-frame chalets. The décor strikes a balance between rustic and elegant, with open-air wood and thatch facilities and sophisticated fittings.

Accommodation

Nkwala offers six A-frame chalets, each with its own spacious en-suite bathroom constructed of clay and featuring an open-air shower. The chalets are decorated with understated elegance, and each opens onto a private patio with comfortable armchairs from which to enjoy the river views. The rooms are airy and spacious, with high ceilings, white walls and flagstone flooring.

Nkwala Camp is highly recommended for families travelling with children.

Wildlife

At the camp itself, game can be seen stopping by the lagoon to quench their thirst. Leopards are relatively common on the banks of the river at night.

The Luangwa River flows through a 9 000 km2 area and is home to an amazing abundance of game. This includes over 400 species of birds and 100 species of mammal. Guests can look forward to seeing, among others, elephant, buffalo, leopard, lion, giraffe, and hippo.

There are three distinct seasons, each offering its own advantages. The Emerald Season, between November and March, is the wet season in the area. It is the breeding season, so very young animals can be seen in the park. It is ideal for bird watching, and the landscape is lush and green. Dramatic storms add to the landscape’s mysticism, and colourful flowers are in full bloom.

Between April and August is the dry season. The river is at a lower level, so boating opportunities are limited. In April and May, the weather is mild and clear. Later on, the evenings and mornings are chilly, but the landscape remains green and lush.

The hot season occurs between September and mid-November. The vegetation is sparser, so game is easier to spot. The weather is beginning to warm up, and river bed dries up, drawing large concentrations of game to its banks in search of water.

More Info

Children
Children under the age of 7 are not permitted at  Nkwali Camp

Please Note:
Please take note of Luangwa Conservation and Community Funds
Visas: South African passport holders do not need a visa to enter Zambia, but it is advisable to check before arrival at the border.

Directions

South Luangwa National Park:

GPS: -13.09553 (latitude) 31.497803 (longitude)