Chinzombo Safari Camp South Luangwa National Park

Flights from Lusaka take around an hour to reach Mfuwe from where there is a one hour road transfer to the lodge including crossing the Luangwa River.

Chinzombo Safari Camp welcomes children of all ages. The camp offers a two-bedroom family villa, ideal for families seeking luxury accommodation. However, as the camp is unfenced and situated in a wildlife-rich area, it’s essential for parents to supervise their children at all times. Additionally, certain activities, such as walking safaris, have a minimum age requirement of 12 years. Families with younger children may need us to arrange private activities, which could incur extra costs.

Chinzombo Safari Camp is dedicated to sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship. Key aspects of their sustainability policy include:

• Eco-Friendly Construction: The camp’s design incorporates natural materials such as timber, recycled elements, and locally produced leather, reed work, and canvas. This approach minimizes environmental impact and harmonizes with the surrounding wilderness.
• Green Energy and Waste Management: Chinzombo employs cutting-edge green power solutions and waste management technologies to ensure the camp leaves the lightest possible environmental footprint.
• Community Engagement: Through the Time + Tide Foundation, the camp supports local communities by investing in education, healthcare, and conservation initiatives, fostering a positive relationship between tourism and the local population.

Chinzombo Safari Camp, located in South Luangwa National Park, is renowned for its diverse and abundant wildlife. Visitors can expect to see:

Big Cats & Predators:

• Leopards – South Luangwa is one of the best places in Africa for leopard sightings, especially during night drives.
• Lions – Large prides roam the park, often seen resting in the shade or hunting in the early morning and evening.
• Wild Dogs – Though rare, African wild dogs are occasionally spotted in the park, particularly during their denning season.
• Hyenas – Frequently heard at night, hyenas are opportunistic scavengers and skilled hunters, often competing with lions.

Large Mammals:

• Elephants – Herds gather along the Luangwa River, particularly in the dry season when water sources become scarce.
• Buffalo – Large herds, sometimes numbering in the hundreds, roam the floodplains and woodlands.
• Hippos – The Luangwa River is home to some of Africa’s highest hippo concentrations, often seen wallowing in pods.
• Giraffes – The unique Thornicroft’s giraffe, found only in South Luangwa, can be spotted browsing the treetops.
• Zebras – The endemic Crawshay’s zebra, distinguishable by its lack of shadow stripes, is commonly seen grazing on the plains.

Antelope Species:

• Puku – These shaggy-coated antelope are abundant along riverbanks and floodplains.
• Impala – A common prey species for big cats, seen in large numbers throughout the park.
• Waterbuck – Recognisable by the white ring on their rump, they are often found near water sources.
• Kudu – Shy and elusive, kudu are more commonly spotted in woodland areas.

Birdlife:

• Over 400 bird species can be seen, including iconic species like:
  • Lilac-breasted rollers
  • Carmine bee-eaters (seasonally nest along riverbanks)
  • Fish eagles (the national bird of Zambia)
  • Pelicans, storks, and herons in the river’s lagoons

Reptiles & Other Wildlife:

• Crocodiles – Often seen basking on riverbanks or lurking in the Luangwa River.
• Monitor Lizards – Large lizards that thrive in wetland and woodland areas.
• Baboons & Vervet Monkeys – Active primates frequently seen near camp, often interacting in playful social groups.