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Nkwali

Our rating

8/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Intimate, upmarket camp
- Tranquil riverside location
- Exclusive access into National Park

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Overview

Nkwali is an exclusive camp in a stunning riverside location opposite South Luangwa National Park, eastern Zambia. Situated in a private game management reserve, this intimate, upmarket camp offers exceptional hosting and guiding, a swimming pool, and six well-appointed riverside chalets, towards the higher end of the budget spectrum. South Luangwa boasts a diverse terrain of woodlands, lagoons, and vast grassy plains, home to abundant wildlife including lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, hyena, and the elusive wild dog, plus over 450 species of birds.

Open all year, and a 40 minute drive from Mfuwe airport, Nkwali sits on the banks of the Luangwa River, shaded by ebony and mahogany trees, beside a lagoon popular with elephants and hippos. The camp’s main area or ‘chitenge’ is an open-sided wood and canvas construction with a high thatched ceiling. Guest spaces comprise a comfortable lounge, bar, and communal dining area. Outside is a spacious deck boasting wonderful river views, and a refreshing swimming pool with loungers. The tranquil campfire area is ideal for post dinner drinks. There is also a private game viewing area situated behind camp. Nkwali operates on mains electricity, and mobile phone reception is available, although guests are requested to limit phone usage to within their rooms.

Activities include day and night game drives, and guided walks in the national park with enthusiastic and informed guides. Guests can enjoy cultural visits to the local village and schools, and shopping excursions to Mfuwe’s vibrant markets and shops or ‘dukas’. Throughout the Jan/April ‘Emerald' season boat excursions on the Luangwa River are available. The camp operates its own pontoon and enjoys direct access into the national park, either by boat or by driving across the arid river bed during the dry months. Note that visitors during October and November should come prepared for high temperatures, coinciding with wildlife at its most prolific.

The accommodation comprises just six spacious riverside chalets with cool stone floors and airy thatched roofs. Each chalet is fronted by shutters, open by day to allow wildlife viewing from the comfort of one’s bed. Five chalets accommodate two guests in a double or twin beds, and there is one larger family unit. All rooms are ensuite, featuring an indulgent open air bathroom with twin washbasins, WC and shower. All units have mosquito nets and fans, but there is no air conditioning. Outside is a private veranda with seating and lovely river views.

Children over seven years of age are welcome, and there’s a designated family unit which accommodates up to four guests. Parents should note that there is a minimum age of 12 years for guided walks. Since the camp is unfenced, with wild animals free to wander through, parents are also reminded that children must be supervised 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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