South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is famed for its untamed beauty, diverse wildlife, and authentic safari experiences that draw travellers from around the globe.
For safari enthusiasts, it’s a destination that offers a harmonious blend of adventure, tranquillity, and awe-inspiring landscapes. This was precisely the experience that Ivy and Tiwonge, safari experts from Crafted Africa, discovered during their recent journey through this captivating region.
Embarking on an early morning start from Lilongwe, Malawi, Ivy and Tiwonge’s South Luangwa adventure was filled with encounters both with wildlife and welcoming familiar faces, each stop along the way revealing a new chapter of Zambia’s wilderness.
A Warm Welcome at Tafika Camp
After crossing the Mwami border and meeting their Crafted Africa partner on the Zambian side, the team journeyed to Tafika Camp, where they were greeted with warmth by the team, including their skilled driver-guide, Mwila. Set along the Luangwa River, Tafika offered a mix of traditional safari luxury and local charm. The night unfolded over dinner with camp hosts, as they shared stories under the African night sky, sparking the excitement for the adventures awaiting them.
Early Rises and Leopard Sightings at Tena Tena Camp
With a dawn start, Ivy and Tiwonge set off on an early morning game drive, braving the chilly air for the thrill of spotting South Luangwa’s famed wildlife. Their morning brought them to Tena Tena Camp, where a warm welcome awaited. After a relaxing lunch, the excitement of an afternoon drive delivered a highlight: a leopard and her cub feasting on a fresh kill, a rare sight that left the team awestruck.
Tena Tena, with its comfortable setting and incredible guides, set the scene for memorable evenings, where guests shared stories over dinner before retreating to their cosy rooms, lulled to sleep by the sounds of the bush.
Electric Safari Thrills at Shawa Luangwa Camp
The journey continued as Ivy and Tiwonge crossed the Luangwa River to reach Shawa Luangwa Camp. Greeted with singing, dancing, and laughter, the team instantly felt at home. Shawa’s unique twist on safari—game drives in electric vehicles—allowed them to get remarkably close to the wildlife while minimising their environmental impact. Guided by the inimitable “Jack Sparrow,” they embarked on a drive rich in birdlife and unexpected encounters.
At day’s end, the group gathered for a delicious dinner before retiring to their tents overlooking the river, enveloped in the tranquillity of the wilderness.
The Enchantment of Time + Tide Luwi Camp
The next stop brought Ivy and Tiwonge to Time + Tide Luwi Camp, a bush camp wrapped in a charming, rustic atmosphere. Greeted by the ever-welcoming Lawrence and his team, they settled into the Luwi landscape where the allure of nature is matched by the camp’s laid-back elegance. An afternoon game drive marked their transfer to an extraordinary experience: the Luwi Sleepout.
This was safari magic in its purest form—sleeping on the banks of the Luwi River, under a canopy of stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature. The team savoured a campfire dinner with Lawrence and the crew, creating memories they would carry long after the safari ended.
Walking Safari Adventure to Time + Tide Nsolo Camp
South Luangwa is celebrated as the birthplace of the walking safari, and Ivy and Tiwonge embraced this legacy on a 4.5-kilometre trek to Time + Tide Nsolo Camp. Guided by Lawrence and Ranger Peter, they delved into the intricate ecosystems of the bush, gaining insights into the hidden connections that make the wilderness thrive.
Nsolo Camp welcomed them with cheers and cold drinks, offering a relaxing retreat with its open verandas overlooking breathtaking views. After a sunset along the Luwi River, they prepared for their longest walk of the trip—a 14-kilometre journey to Kakuli.
A Warm Respite at Time + Tide Kakuli
The trek to Kakuli was a test of endurance, but the reward was well worth it. Kakuli’s river-facing chalets and welcoming team provided the perfect respite for Ivy and Tiwonge. Time + Tide’s tradition of 11 AM brunches at Kakuli was a delicious way to start the day, combining indulgent food with inspiring views of the Luangwa.
After brunch, they embarked on an afternoon of relaxation, sharing stories with other travellers before another unforgettable game drive, one of many in their journey through South Luangwa.
A Grand Finale at Lion Camp and Mwamba Bush Camp
Their journey culminated at Lion Camp, located in the northern reaches of South Luangwa. With its artful decor and serene lagoon views, Lion Camp offered the perfect blend of luxury and wilderness. Dotti and her team welcomed the travellers with open arms, and as they settled in, resident elephants meandered nearby, completing the enchanting scene.
The final night was spent at Mwamba Bush Camp, nestled by a waterhole on the open plains, ideal for wildlife spotting. The rustic charm of Mwamba, combined with the awe of the open plains, gave the team a true sense of Africa’s raw beauty. They spent the evening at the camp’s hides and raised decks, immersed in the panoramic landscapes of South Luangwa as dusk fell.
Memories to Last a Lifetime
As their journey drew to a close, Ivy and Tiwonge reflected on the unforgettable experiences they’d gathered across South Luangwa. The friendships, the exhilarating game drives, and the peaceful moments around campfires left them with a profound sense of gratitude for this incredible land and the connections it fosters.
This journey through South Luangwa serves as a reminder of why this corner of Africa holds such a special place in the hearts of those who visit. With each safari camp revealing its unique character, South Luangwa offers an immersive and varied safari experience that leaves an indelible mark on every traveller.
