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Chamilandu Bushcamp

Our rating

8/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Intimate, upmarket camp
- Just three luxurious chalets
- Stunning, remote setting
- Wildlife in camp

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Overview

Chamilandu Bushcamp is a small, exclusive camp offering an authentic, 'up-close' wilderness experience within a remote southern corner of Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. The camp sits in a beautiful, secluded location overlooking the Luangwa River, with the picturesque Chindeni Hills on the horizon. An intimate and chic option at the higher end of the budget spectrum, Chamilandu accommodates just six guests in three superb, open-fronted chalets set on stilts. Boasting expert guiding and extremely comfortable facilities in an area combining rich wildlife with low visitor density, it is a great choice for travellers wishing to be fully immersed in their natural surroundings without having to forgo modern comforts.

Approximately three hours’ transfer from Mfuwe airport, Chamilandu operates during the peak game-viewing dry season of June to November. Although visitors should come prepared for high temperatures from October onwards, this is the period when wildlife is at its most prolific, with large numbers of lion, leopard, elephant, zebra, hippo, impala, and jackal to be seen, along with the more elusive wild dog.

The camp’s open-sided wood and reed main area has a high thatched ceiling, sandy floors, contemporary yet cosy furniture, and a rustic and airy feel. Guests spaces comprise a communal dining area, a lounge with well stocked bar, and a small library. Outside is a pretty campfire area where guests can relax with sundowners, and nearby is a substantial hide overlooking a small lagoon, popular with elephants. The cuisine is excellent and imaginative, featuring high quality buffet breakfasts and lunches, and a delicious three course evening meal.

Activities focus on day and night game drives and walking safaris with experienced and highly respected guides. Even during peak season, this is an area of the National Park with very few visitors, and it is not unusual for guests to have the wildlife to themselves, without encountering other walking parties or vehicles.

The accommodation comprises three spacious thatched chalets constructed on tall wooden stilts, set amidst beautiful ebony trees. Each chalet is open fronted to the river, enhancing the camp’s genuine wilderness charm. Facilities include either one king size or two twin beds with mosquito nets, plus an open-fronted ensuite bathroom with double basins, WC, and twin rainfall showers. Outside is a roomy veranda, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the wonderful views. Chamilandu runs on solar power, with charging facilities provided in each chalet. However, although the camp’s remote location is part of its charm, visitors should note that this does mean there’s no mobile phone reception or internet access.

Children age 12 and over are most welcome. Under 12s are accommodated when the camp is booked exclusively by a group, subject to hiring a private vehicle and guide. Note there is a minimum age restriction of 12 years for walking safaris. As the camp has no pool and does not offer child specific activities, it may be more suitable for families with older children, or for adventurous families seeking an authentic wilderness base. The camp is unfenced and wild animals do wander through; although it is unlikely that wildlife would approach people or chalets, parents are reminded to supervise children at all times.

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What customers are saying after travelling with Tourdust

Average Rating

based on 534 reviews

(5.00/5)

  • I was also just about to email you to thank you and the team for arranging yet again, another wonderful experience.

    Mount Kenya was spectacular and wild - I think I prefer it to Kili in many ways. The entire support team was professional, friendly and all round fantastic in making sure that we were safe, well fed and well looked after. In particular, we would commend Peter the guide as well as Paul one of the porters who doubled-up as his deputy on summit day. Our route was often shrouded in mist and rain that rapidly gathered in the valleys and moorlands, and we were very impressed at how Peter managed to navigate us safely through all of that notwithstanding. In addition, we loved learning about the history of Mount Kenya from him in the evenings. And ofcourse, I was blown away by the lovely birthday surprise at the end complete with balloons and a delicious cake that had journeyed with us from day 1. One thing we might recommend because of the sudden change in weather (it would sometimes get extremely cold and wet) is for the equipment list to be a little bit more detailed in terms of its recommendations e.g. layers to be moisture-wicking, walking boots be waterproof, doubling up on socks to avoid blisters etc.

    El Karama is a beautiful conservancy and the lodge a true labour of love. Great hospitality in a relaxed environment. Delicious, fresh food. We enjoyed the drives, even if we didn't see much wildlife as the heavens opened on us for the last two outings. However, since it was very much geared towards families, I am not sure if I would stay again without kids. That said, I think it was perfect for a 3d/2n stay post mountain, and a much better choice than flying to the masai mara given the limited time we had.

    Our transits were smooth. Samuel the driver was always on time, drove safely and kept the vehicle clean.

    So it was a brilliant experience and one which I certainly will cherish for some time to come. It was great to work with you for a third time, and I certainly hope it won't be the last

    MissingJuhae C reviewing Mount Kenya Sirimon Naro Moru Trek on 01 March 2024

  • Thank you, we had an absolute wonderful time, and everything was well-planned and as described. Carla was crying on the day of our departure from Ants Nest, she didn’t want to go home and for it all to end, and when I asked how much longer she would want to stay, she responded “four weeks”

    MissingLars B reviewing Best of South Africa for Families on 01 March 2024

  • We had the most amazing time. It exceeded all my hopes of what the trip would be. The guides, the hotels - everything was of such a wonderful quality. Thank you for organizing everything. I will absolutely recommend Tourdust and use you again.

    MissingClaudia L reviewing Luxury Desert Holiday on 11 January 2024

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