PAN-LUANGWA TOUR
PHOTO SAFARI
PAN-LUANGWA TOUR
PHOTO SAFARI WITH EDWARD SELFE
This tour was created as a bespoke safari for two guests who wanted to travel right across all areas of the South Luangwa National Park, taking time in each location to get to know the area and enjoy the sightings available. We use wonderful camps in each of the areas we visit which, crucially, are in the prime spots.
Chindeni Camp is perched on the edge of a ridge, overlooking a lagoon and the Chindeni hills beyond. It is central in the Bushcamp Company’s game viewing zone, allowing us to head south towards the Kapamba River, or north, upstream towards the scenic areas around Chamilandu Camp. The game is good in this area, especially later in the season, and we’ll enjoy being inside the National Park allowing us to leave camp early.
Kaingo Camp is run by Shenton Safaris who have built their reputation around photographic safaris. This area has 3 resident lion prides, good leopard sightings and there are endless game sightings to be had immediately around the camp. The landscapes are spectacular, especially in the beautiful ebony groves, and there is a good chance of seeing the endemic Cookson’s wildebeest. Shenton Safaris are rightly famous for their hides which allow low and close views of hippos, carmine bee-eaters and scenic views of elephants crossing the main river. We will make extensive use of these hides during game viewing time, and also during the heat of the day when it is too hot to be out in the safari vehicles.
Nsefu Camp is on the eastern bank of the Luangwa in the exclusive Nsefu Sector of the National Park. This area offers outstanding wildlife photography opportunities with the added bonus that we will have the area largely to ourselves – a private and serene experience with Nature. Run by Robin Pope Safaris, Nsefu is one of the Valley’s longest-standing camps and resides in a tranquil wildlife hotspot in the middle of the Nsefu Sector. This final part of the safari shows Luangwa at its very best, competing with safaris anywhere else on the continent.
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Nsefu Camp
Nsefu Camp is run by Robin Pope Safaris, a by-line for excellence, both in camp and on safari. Situated in the exclusive Nsefu Sector on a magnificent meander on the Luangwa River lies this historic camp. Nsefu is one steeped in history; it was built in 1951 and – barring some upgrades – the camp and rooms are still in the same place in the original style. Quite apart from an outstanding safari experience, we can look forward to excellent hospitality and wonderful views of the Luangwa River from our rooms.
The camp welcomes just twelve guests in six original brick and thatch rondavels with en-suite facilities, each room opening up to what can simply be described as the best view in the South Luangwa.
Nsefu has many repeat guests, some of whom I got to meet during my stay. With the combination of great location, wonderful staff and an abundance of wildlife, I can certainly see why. I would recommend this camp, without reservation, and send my best to all those who made my stay so memorable.
Sara G, USA
Chindeni Camp
In an enviable location on the edge of a lagoon where hippos snort and elephant wallow, stands Chindeni – undoubtedly one of the most beautiful, tented camps in the South Luangwa.
There’s something about sleeping under canvas that ignites a sense of adventure in everyone. At Chindeni you can combine that thrill with style and comfort in one of its four opulent tents. Gaze out from your private veranda onto the lagoon which attracts birds and animals from miles around. Or settle back with a gin-and-tonic in the central lounge and dining area – a glorious expanse of decking arranged on several levels around the surrounding ebony trees, boasting, of course, the same spectacular view of the serene lagoon and its inhabitants.
Chindeni is “my happy place” and by far my favorite camp in all of Africa. It’s situated on a lovely lagoon where the sunrises from the huge deck are spectacular. The large and luxurious tents are so inviting that you won’t want to leave in the mornings, BUT you must, because the prolific wildlife is calling to you … literally! The friendly and knowledgeable staff look after your every need. The food is outstanding. I’ve visited Chindeni six times and would not fathom visiting Zambia without spending time here.
Cindy M, USA
Kaingo
Overlooking the Luangwa River deep within the prime area of the South Luangwa National Park, Kaingo’s relaxed, personal and friendly atmosphere offers its guests fantastic game-viewing opportunities within an area of incredible beauty and varied terrain.
Kaingo has many attributes ranging from the camps stylish design and practical layout to the local farm produce. The large centrally located open-sided sitting room includes a dining area, library and Kaingo’s renowned thousand year old lead-wood bar.
Nestled discretely on the banks of the river, Kaingo’s chalets were designed with the sole purpose of transporting you safely into the world of the Luangwa without a single distraction.
Overlooking the river with only 6 chalets run by solar power. Great, friendly and personal atmosphere, with each chalet having a private viewing deck (unattached) over the river. Indoor bathroom in a lovely rustic chalet, but each cabin also has a stunning outdoor bath overlooking the river with its pods of hippos and crocodiles. The property has its own Hippo hide providing an up close and personal view of the animals, undisturbed, in their natural environment.
Amy M, Australia