Location
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Set deep inside South Luangwa National Park on the seasonal Luwi River, this intimate camp sits among mahogany trees beside a permanent oxbow lagoon that draws wildlife throughout the dry season. South Luangwa is known as the birthplace of the walking safari, with large populations of leopard and lion, endangered wild dogs and seasonal concentrations of wildlife gathering around the Luangwa River and its remaining water sources. Carmine bee-eaters nest in the riverbanks from late September through November, while elephants, hippos and breeding herds move across the floodplains surrounding camp.

Soft-sided guest tents are spaced along the edge of the grasslands, each with open-air seating areas facing the bush. Interiors are simple and functional, recalling classic safari camps, with canvas walls, screened windows, dark wood furniture, writing desks, vintage trunks, fans and beds draped in mosquito nets. En suite bathrooms include running water, flush toilets and outdoor showers. Wi-Fi is available in the tents, though phone service is limited.

The open-sided main lodge includes a lounge, small library, dining area and bar, along with shaded seating areas beneath the trees and a campfire overlooking the lagoon. Family-style meals highlight regional ingredients and Zambian cooking traditions, with dishes such as tilapia baked in banana leaves with preserved Kapani lemons, roasted pork with ginger and sage and munkoyo panna cotta with masau syrup.

Days focus on exploring the park on foot and by vehicle. Guided walking safaris follow animal tracks through floodplains and woodland, while game drives venture deeper into the park in search of lion, leopard, wild dog, roan antelope and elephant. A wildlife hide overlooking the lagoon offers close views of hippos and the steady movement of animals coming to the water.