Safari pioneer

Let’s face it: you jumped on a plane to Africa to experience that real ‘bush feeling,’ right? You know, without any distractions from the modern world, no unnecessary frills, the real bare necessities of life – correct? Welcome to Luwi Camp. One of the South Luangwa’s first remote bush camps, Luwi lies deep in the heart of the South Luangwa National Park on the dynamic seasonal Luwi River. This comfortable, yet rustic camp is nestled in the shade of huge mahogany trees close to a permanent hippo and crocodile filled lagoon, with great views over a floodplain to the Luwi riverbed and beyond. The area is extremely remote with no other camps or people for miles around. Because this camp is so far away from any other camp, animals are not used to seeing humans around here. They will actually follow their curiosity and come up close. With guides who know every part of this ‘neck of the woods’ and an area perfect for walking safaris, you will definitely uncover your inner explorer when you set foot on this land. Even if you skipped the safari activities, staying in this camp is no punishment. The accommodations are extremely comfortable (with amazingly soft beds), the food is mouth watering (how does an African BBQ on a dried river bank sound?) and the staff keeps you safe at all times.

The five traditional huts made of grass and thatch are built each season, blend into the bush, and are simple yet extremely comfortable. The en-suite facilities are open to the sky and very spacious, with a flush WC and showers with hot and cold running water. The twin or double beds are under large mosquito nets, there are reed mats on the solid earth floors, and the huts boast lovely rustic furniture. One of the most traditional of bush camps, at Luwi daytime meals are served in the shade of the mahogany trees, and dinner is taken under the stars accompanied by the many sounds of the Zambian night. There is a small thatch canopy providing shade over the bar and lounging area where you get to relax and watch the wildlife roam by. (With a gin & tonic in your hand, of course.)

Activities at Luwi Bush Camp

Due to the camp’s remote location, it’s the perfect spot for walking safaris. The wildlife in the area is prolific, and memories you will make of tracking big game on foot are sure to last a lifetime. The guides as this camp are walking encyclopaedias. During walks and game drives, they will guide you to thrilling wildlife scenes. Vultures in a tree, a certain type of scat – all clues that wildlife is close. If you really want to experience something unforgettable, spend a night camped out under the stars under the supervision of the staff and experience real wilderness. Dinner made on an open fire, gazing up to the Milky Way, maybe even hearing a leopard growling pretty close at night…significant moments that won’t be forgotten soon. During safari activities, you might find the elusive Roan antelope or reed buck, eland, and hartebeest, which are almost never seen in other parts of the park. You can also expect to see lion prides, countless buffalo and elephants, hippos exposing their pink bellies in the water, impalas, wild dogs, over 400 birds species…the possibilities are endless. During any activity, and even when you are lounging in the camp, you will feel the constant adrenaline rush from seeing something beautiful.

Tripadvisor comments Luwi Bush Camp

Our first visit to south Luangwa, first visit to Zambia and first visit to Africa. Luwi bush camp was the perfect introduction. Peaceful, stunning animal sightings, great food, night drives, excellent guiding, fascinating walks, and friendly staff. Can't recommend Norman Carr Bush Camps highly enough!

DeeBee88 from Melbourne

What a wonderful place. Lawrence, Frank and Judith (fantastic chef) made our stay incredible. Accommodation fun, game viewing terrific with such a passionate and knowledgeable guide in Lawrence. Hippos around, game drives great and the last night of our stay with the special dinner was unforgettable. We had the very best of times. Thank you Luwi.

JAASydney from Sydney