Flashback to 2001, when a young couple decided to swop their city life and white-collar jobs in the UK for the Luangwa Valley in Zambia, with a dream of building a safari lodge from scratch in the African wilderness. That is how Luangwa River Camp came about! In 2011 Robin Pope Safaris took over management of this stunning property and the rest is history…
This charming and intimate 5 chalet camp enjoys an idyllic location on the banks of the Luangwa River and is also flanked by several lagoons including the famous Luangwa Wafwa which is a well-known wildlife hot spot. The main area has stunning views out on to the Luangwa River and you can take in all this scenery from the bar, the lounge area or even from the plunge pool which is perfectly placed for uninterrupted views.
At the helm of Luangwa River Camp is none other than Daudi Njobvu who many of you know well as he is somewhat of a legend in RPS and the South Luangwa! Daudi has been guiding with us for 25 years, but his career as a guide in the Luangwa spans over 30 years! His journey with RPS started at Tena Tena which then led him to the oldest photographic camp in Zambia: Nsefu Camp. After over 10 years of managing this beloved bushcamp, (his home away from home as he fondly referred to it), Daudi was ready for a new adventure and left the remote Nsefu Sector to become the manager of Luangwa River Camp, which was a complete contrast to Nsefu Camp but so exciting nonetheless. The smooth transition was further cemented by the fact that Daudi was now closer to his family village so he had the best of both worlds!
When asked to share his most memorable moment this is what he had to say:
“I have so many special memories from the past many years, but if I choose the most memorable occurrence, is the sighting we had in 2019… right in front of Luangwa River Camp at breakfast time…
Two wild dogs suddenly appeared and started chasing an impala right before our eyes. The rest of the pack were still on the other side of the river (park side) and couldn’t find a way to cross. There were crocodiles lurking around and we all sat with mouths gaping open witnessing this incredible event!
During the pandemic when travel slowed to a standstill, we decided to make the most of a bad situation and give Luangwa River Camp some TLC! The main camp area was transformed from a peaceful oasis into a completely unrecognizable bustling construction site. It was all hands on deck, from housekeepers and watchman, to kitchen staff and waiters, everyone got involved and what a great team effort it was, as well as a great distraction for them while they waited to resume the usual duties post-pandemic.
The end result speaks for itself…
We are thrilled the camp is opened again after the 2-year hiatus and so far it’s been a fantastic season with wonderful guests and unforgettable moments. Here is what some of our recent guests had to say about the camp:
“Yet again Robin Pope excelled! Daudi is a very good guide. He knows the area very well and ensures that you get to see as much as possible. Again magical encounters with Wild Dogs, hyena elephant and amazing birds! Not forgetting the nightly lullaby by hippos.” – Suzanne L (Tripadvisor)
Daudi & the team are looking forward to welcoming you to this special place.
