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Welcome to Luangwa River Camp in South Luangwa National Park

AboutLuangwa River Camp

Luangwa River Camp sits nestled under an ebony grove on the banks of the Luangwa River, Zambia  in a game rich area.

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Key facts of Luangwa River Camp

Open 1 April - 30 November
Accommodation Five bush suites
Policy Children over 7 years are welcome
Airport Mfuwe Airport
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Luangwa River Camp

Slideshow Items

  • Cozy Chalets at Luangwa River Camp
    Cozy Chalets at Luangwa River Camp
  • Game drive at Nkwali Camp
    Game drive at Nkwali Camp
    Game drive at Nkwali Camp

Discover Luangwa River Camp

Description
Facilities
Experiences
Wildlife
Gallery
Description

Why stay at Luangwa River Camp?

Luangwa River Camp is a small, intimate safari camp, overlooking the Luangwa River, under an ancient ebony grove. It has just 5 bush suites and offers:

A quiet, intimate atmosphere.
Personalized safari experiences.
Stunning river views.
A romantic setting ideal for couples and honeymooners.

Why is the location of the camp ideal?
Luangwa River Camp is located just outside South Luangwa National Park, across the Luangwa River. Guests access the park via a short boat trip, avoiding busy park entrances and thus reaching prime wildlife areas quickly.

Read more about South Luangwa National Park

Slideshow Items

  • ;uangwa River camp by night
    ;uangwa River camp by night
  • Birds eye view of Luangwa River Camp
    Birds eye view of Luangwa River Camp
    Birds eye view of Luangwa River Camp
  • Cozy Chalets at Luangwa River Camp
    Cozy Chalets at Luangwa River Camp
Facilities
En suite
Stand alone fans
Pool
Limited WiFi
Limited phone access
Laundry service

 

The bush suites at Luangwa River Camp are elegantly designed with natural materials, including brick walls and traditional thatched roofs. Each suite blends comfort with an authentic safari atmosphere, featuring a decadent bathtub and shower in a private ensuite bathroom for a truly indulgent experience in the heart of the African wilderness.

Slideshow Items

Experiences
luangwa-river-camp-luangwa-river-camp-robin-pope-safaris

Game drives

We offer options for day or night drives with Toyota Landcruisers with a "window" seat for everyone. All our vehicles have an open top affording you a vision of total 360 degree.

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luangwa-river-camp-luangwa-river-camp-robin-pope-safaris
Walking at Luangwa River Camp

Walking

The walks are led by our very knowledgeable guides, and escorted by an armed National Park scout. Feel at one with nature and get closer to the action, see the details and signs that the animals leave behind. A vehicle with a canopy can be requested but is subject to availability.

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Boating on the Shire River at Mkulumadzi Lodge, Robin Pope Safaris
Boating on the Shire River at Mkulumadzi Lodge

Seasonal Boating

A special treat indeed for guests in the Emerald Season. Explore the lagoons for enhanced game viewing and birding.

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Caring for our communities

Village Tours

A visit to Kawaza Village and the schools is often remembered years later by our guests as the most rewarding part of their visit to Africa. This gives a more holistic experience of the Luangwa Valley. There is a cost of 35 USD pp that goes directly to uplifting the community.

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luangwa-trail-robin-pope-safaris

Wildlife Education Centre

A visit (at extra cost) to a charitable trust for the school children of the Luangwa Valley to teach them about wildlife and conservation.

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Main area at Luangwa River Campp on the Kasanka Bat Safari
Bush suite at Luangwa River Camp

Tribal Textiles

For unique locally produced hand-painted textiles, drawing inspiration from the stunning Zambian wildlife and surroundings. A perfect place to buy a souvenir or two of your Zambian experience.

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Nkwali Camp

Spa Treatments

Looking for extra relaxation options while you are with us in the wild... There is a mobile spa available at an extra cost in South Luangwa. Our team can arrange this for you.

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Wildlife

What Wildlife Can You See?
South Luangwa is a true paradise for wildlife lovers.  Alongside elephants, buffalo, hippos, giraffes, lions, and leopards, the park is home to thriving populations of antelope such as puku and impala. With over 450 species of birds, it is also one of Africa’s top birding destinations, while predator sightings are among the best in Africa.

When Can You See Carmine Bee-Eaters?
One of the most spectacular wildlife events occurs from September to mid-October, when thousands of Southern Carmine Bee-eater nest along the riverbanks. At Luangwa River Camp, there is a vibrant colony is located directly opposite the camp, giving guests a front-row seat to one of Africa’s most colorful natural displays.

What Predators Are Found Here?
Lions
Leopards (giving the park its nickname “Valley of the Leopards”)
Spotted hyenas
African wild dogs
Other smaller predators such as serval, civet and more

Slideshow Items

  • Carmine bee eaters
    Carmine bee eaters
  • the-rps-circuit-the-rps-circuit-robin-pope-safaris
    Game drives in South Luangwa
    Game drives in South Luangwa
  • Leopard in the South Luangwa National Park
    Leopard in the South Luangwa National Park
    Leopard in the South Luangwa National Park
  • South Luangwa wildlife
    South Luangwa wildlife
  • Luangwa River Camp
    Luangwa River Camp
  • luangwa-river-camp-luangwa-river-camp-robin-pope-safaris
    South Luangwa Wildlife
    South Luangwa Wildlife
  • Thornicroft Giraffe can be seen when staying at Luangwa River Camp, Robin Pope Safaris
    South Luangwa Wildlife
    South Luangwa Wildlife
  • luangwa-river-camp-luangwa-river-camp-robin-pope-safaris
    South Luangwa Wildlife
    South Luangwa Wildlife
  • Yellow billed storks
    Yellow billed storks
    Yellow billed storks
  • Game drives into the wilderness at Luangwa River Camp, Robin Pope Safaris
    South Luangwa Wildlife
    South Luangwa Wildlife
  • A walk on the Wild Side
    A walk on the Wild Side
    A walk on the Wild Side
  • The vibrant carmines arrive in September
    The vibrant carmines arrive in September
  • Luangwa River Camp
    Luangwa River Camp
Gallery
Birds eye view of Luangwa River Camp
Birds eye view of Luangwa River Camp
luangwa-river-camp-robin-pope-safaris
Luangwa River Camp
Aerial view of the location of Luangwa River Camp
Aerial view of the location of Luangwa River Camp
Dinner at Luangwa River Camp
Breakfast at Luangwa River Camp
Breakfast at Luangwa River Camp
Cozy Chalets at Luangwa River Camp
Pool with a view at Luangwa River Camp
Pool with a view at Luangwa River Camp

Rates and Season Highlights

Our rates are inclusive of accommodation, activities, meals and bar and are charged per person per night by season. Park entry costs are extra. For guests staying more than 7 nights at RPS properties, there are long stay discounts available. There is no supplement charged for single travelers unless there are more than 3 singles. Children’s rates are available as well as a complimentary stay for a second child under 16 years. Note: Rates may vary for residents or regional travellers. All rates are subject to change without notice.

 

The different seasons offer us incredible diversity in terms of landscapes, wildlife sightings and experiences. We have put together some of these highlights for you to consider as you plan your African adventure with us. Be inspired!

apr
may
jun
jul
aug
sep
oct
nov
April
Lower rates | Beautiful vistas and dramatic scenery | baby boom in animal kingdom | Migratory birds are around
  • Emerald season: 510 USD pppn.
  • Peek through the long grass and under the thick bushes to see what you can find. The lagoons are starting to dry out and the yellow billed storks and spoonbilled storks are making the most of the opportunities presented.
  • The evenings are starting to cool down to a very comfortable temperature and the days are lovely and warm.
May
Lower rates | Beautiful vistas and dramatic scenery | baby boom in animal kingdom | Migratory birds are around
  • Emerald season 16-21 May: 510 USD pppn.
    Shoulder season from 22 May: 550 USD pppn.
  • Peek through the long grass and under the thick bushes to see what you can find. The lagoons are starting to dry out and the yellow billed storks and spoonbilled storks are making the most of the opportunities presented.
  • The evenings are starting to cool down to a very comfortable temperature and the days are lovely and warm.
June
Lower rates | Good game viewing | Pleasant temperatures
  • Shoulder season: 550 USD pppn.
  • Elephants and giraffes seem to be dotted all over the place and there also seems to be plenty of youngsters this time of the year.
  • With warm days and cold nights winter is around the corner and coming back from the evening game drives is certainly starting to feel a little chilly.
July
Great game viewing | Favourable weather
  • Peak season: 665 USD pppn.
  • Look at the fluffed up impala in the early mornings and spot the baboons sitting in little patches of sun to warm up and be assured, you will also be wanting to do the same.
  • Blankets and woolly hats definitely needed on some of the early mornings at this time of the year and a nice hot cup of tea mid morning is very welcome.
August
Great game viewing | Favourable weather
  • Peak season: 665 USD pppn.
  • The bush is thinning out and the leopards are making the most of the deep gulleys around the Wafwa area as they stalk their prey.
  • Winter is coming to an end but watch out its soon time for the August winds as we get sudden gusty flurries during the warm days.
September
Phenomenal Game Viewing
  • Peak season: 665 USD pppn.
  • Boating across the river to get into the park is getting harder as we dodge the pods of hippos that are congregating in the deeper channels.
  • The constant warm temperatures are now starting with very little dip in the evening climes, the peak of the heat season is not upon us yet but it is letting us know it is very close.
October
Phenomenal Game Viewing
  • Shoulder season: 550 USD pppn.
  • This time of the year impala and puku are very nervous as they trudge down to remaining water sources to grab a small drink of water. Even the lions are weary as they lap at the edge of the Luangwa.
  • Hot and dusty with dust devils whipping up a storm across the parched landscape but a glimmer of hope on the horizon as storm clouds start to build.
November
Lower Rates | Exceptional Game Viewing
  • Emerald season: 510 USD pppn.
  • The lions are feasting as the prey is weakened by lack of fresh food and water and the vultures wait patiently on the sidelines to pick up the scraps.
  • The clouds are building and the distant rumble of thunder offers hope that the rains will soon arrive. The temperatures are building and when the first rain arrives no sooner does it hit the ground than it evapourates.

Safarisfeaturing Luangwa River Camp

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Julius was an exceptional guide. Very knowledgable, explained things clearly. Humourous, personable and patient with our photography. Sarel was a very capable manager, well read on current affairs, a great asset to RPS with excellent interpersonal skills.
Jane & Richard about Luangwa River Camp
Everything was amazing and we were looked after so well by all the staff. Special shout out to the chef - the food was spectacular!
Johnnie about Luangwa River Camp
Enjoyed the main lodge area and the view. The food and the laugh and banter with the staff.
Cummings party about Luangwa River Camp
We spent 4 nights at Luangwa River Camp and we enjoyed the time in this absolutely brilliant place. Every morning during the early breakfast, elephant herds crossed the river bank and at siesta time we got a visit from 3 bachelor elephant bulls. We had a great day with Daudi our guide. Ignacio was a brilliant host and we would like to thank you to all other staff in this camp. We had a memorable time.
Sandra L about Luangwa River Camp
Luangwa river camp was the last stop on our holiday and was a great place to finish our trip to this wonderful country. It is set in a perfect location overlooking the Luangwa river with beautiful sightings of elephants crossing.
Will P about Luangwa River Camp
Yona was a phenomenal guide and real character, Joe was charming and great fun. The food was fantastic, Boniface was lovely and overall we absolutely loved every minute of our stay. Truly wonderful stay.
Vaughn M about Luangwa River Camp
The quality of the guiding was first class. We mainly went on game drives and also did a walking safari one morning. Our guide Chris was such a joy to be around and his passion about his job was infectious and brought the bush to life for us. I left Luangwa River Camp with a heavy heart. It was definitely one of the highlights of my three week holiday in Africa.
Greentee20 about Luangwa River Camp
First experience of LRC and not disappointed. We've stayed with Robin Pope previously and been delighted with the high standards. We were looked after extremely well by Ignacio who was a fantastic host. Our accommodation was lovely, very spacious and a high standard. The food, service and staff were all exceptional.
Ardy2012 about Luangwa River Camp

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