Nkwali Camp

Nkwali Camp is situated on the banks of the Luangwa River in the Nkwali area of central South Luangwa. The area surrounding the camp offers excellent game viewing whilst access to the park is either by boat or on the nearby pontoon which is a wonderful experience in itself.

The six chalets are large, cool and spacious, with great views of the river. The front of each room is open during the day and then closed off by grill doors at night. The ensuite bathrooms have double sinks and showers, which are open to the skies during the dry season.

The bar area, right on the edge of the Luangwa banks, is built around a huge ebony tree with fantastic views of the river and across to the park. The dining room is a simple thatched structure by the lagoon, however most meals are served under the trees by the lagoon or the river, on the deck, or in the bush.

The private Robin's House is also located here and stands on the riverbank, under a grove of large ebony trees with lovely views. There are two luxury bedrooms, each with its own large bathroom and a central sitting room and dining area. There is a private kitchen and chef, along with a valet, so meals can be served where and when guests like. A private guide and safari vehicle are available for game viewing activities so everything is flexible which works well for private groups or families.

Nkwali Camp is open all year and the seasons are basically divided into the "dry season" (mid May - October) and the "emerald season" (November - mid May). Owned and operated by Robin Pope Safaris the camp combines well with its sister-camps at Nsefu Camp and Tena Tena Camp which are further north within the park and offer superb walking safaris during the dry season.

We visited Nkwali in October 2009 and really appreciated its location and style whilst also having the feel of a rustic camp.  The bar and dining area location is particularly special whilst the game viewing close to camp was superb.