Nkwali Camp, located on the banks of the Luangwa River overlooking the South Luangwa National Park, is often the first safari stop, where our guests get their initial taste of the Luangwa Valley’s wonders. Many will stay a couple of nights or three to acclimatize before starting their next adventure such as our Mobile Walking Safaris. But Nkwali Camp is so much more than just a starting point for our safaris; it is an experience in its own right that should not be missed!
From its humble beginnings in 1991, Nkwali has evolved over the years into the exceptional camp it is today! During this past emerald season, the team were hard at work giving the camp a facelift; from plastering walls, rethatching roofs, redoing decks and general tiding and neatening up, it’s looking great and ready for the season. The 6 chalets (including a larger honeymoon chalet) have all the creature comforts, a gorgeous pool and dining area overlooking an active lagoon and finally a bar and boma area which both have exceptional views of the iconic Luangwa River: WATCH: A virtual tour of Nkwali Camp.
Getting into the park is an expedition on its own because we get to boat our guest directly across the river and into the park where our vehicles are ready to hit the road. There is an option to access the park via a manually operated pontoon, offering another element of adventure. In the drier months we drive or even walk across the riverbed which is just as exciting. Nkwali Camp enjoys a great location and has elephants, lions, leopard, hippos and more roaming in and out of the area: WATCH: A last minute guest at Nkwali!
At the helm of Nkwali Camp is Keyala (Kiki) Phiri, a local safari legend who’s known for his exceptional guiding skills and his infectious laugh, both of which are the reason our guests keep coming back. He’s been managing the camp for an impressive 22 years and runs it like he would his home; where guests arrive as visitors but leave as part of the family!
Kiki is assisted by a wonderful team of guides including Perry Nyama.
One can stay as little or as long as they like at Nkwali Camp while taking advantage of our various Special Offers, including our Zambia@60 discount – or combine the camp with other experiences within Zambia and beyond:
