Reviews of Shiwa Ng'andu

"For anyone with an interest in the history of Zambia and the colonial period then a visit to Shiwa N'gandu is a must. It is important to note that this is a much different experience from a safari camp and while there is some wildlife viewing and excellent birding opportunities this is not a resort or safari destination. Rather it is a working farm and a slice of life in rural Zambia. The opportunity to talk with Charlie and Jo about the past, present and potential future of the region is as interesting as the estate itself. We also enjoyed the beautiful but demanding hike to the top of Nachipala hill.

The Manor House itself is fascinating as are the archives of the writings of Sir Stewart Gore Brown. The home is a museum in itself and the enormous work that has gone into preventing it from being reclaimed by the bush is a full time and ongoing challenge. Guests reside in the home and are treated as family visitors rather than just a "hotel guest". The home has a generator for power during the evening but depends on solar power for other times so keep your flashlight/torch handy! We found it to be an interesting change of pace from the standard safari and well worth the trip." See all these reviews: 7n in Zambia

"Jo and Charlie welcomed us as if we were family and made our visit extremely enjoyable and very special." See all these reviews: 6n in Zambia

"A wonderful experience in a wonderful place. Charlie, Jo and Emma were extremely hospitable and friendly, with nothing too much trouble. We loved hearing about the history of the estate, particularly the years not covered by The Book (Africa House). It was fascinating to hear how Charlie is making his grandfather's dream come true.

The atmosphere is one of a country house party. We also appreciated how the family welcomed our pilot as well. (sounds grander than it was, but the charter pilot stayed with us for two nights as well as they had no other jobs for him at the time).

We enjoyed all the activities, including birding in the beautiful garden and by the Lake, the tour of the farm and the visit to Kapisha Hot Springs where we discovered that Charlie's brother Mark used to drink in a pub in our village when he was a student. As there are less than 500 residents, this is something odf a coincidence.

The food was excellent despite the apparent late arrival of the supply truck (we didn't notice) and I'm looking forward to trying Jo's Boerworst recipe.

On the last morning Jo and Charlie arranged for us to go up Nachipala Bareback Hill which was hard work but well worth the effort with fantastic views all around." See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia

"Absolutely fantastic location, exceeding our expectations (having both read the Africa House)

Owners were unfortunately away but Frank, the House Manager, was a fantastic host especially bearing in mind that he was running many aspcts of the farm at the same time.

We found they only take one party at a time so being the only guests this meant it was extra special.
It is such a scenic place that we think they should sell postcards.

The principles by which the farm is run, helping the local community, is quite outstanding and a role model for others to follow.
The dogs were great fun." See all these reviews: 13n in Zambia

"Jo and Charlie made us feel at home and we would love to hear how their plans are progressing and visit again in a few years time.

The house, garden, farm etc and its history were fascinating and it made a lovely and unusual break from safari lodges. The girls loved the horses and loved riding twice a day everyday." See all these reviews: 11n in Zambia

"This was the perfect oasis in the middle of our 'safari' holiday which provided the ideal contrast to the 'bush' environment.

We could not have been made more welcome and thoroughly enjoyed staying in such style as guests of the Harvey family who were the perfect hosts. What an amazing place!" See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia