Robin Pope Walking Safari: Day-by-day

To look out over the Luangwa River from Nkwali’s open-fronted chalets is to feel at one with the bush. It’s a oneness that is enhanced by the mature mahogany, ebony and sausage trees whose shade shelters the little camp.

High ceilings and flagstone floors in the six stone-and-thatch chalets help to keep them cool, too, while en-suite bathrooms with open-air double showers emphasise the connection with the environment – in total privacy, of course.

The theme continues in the open-sided “chitenge”, where comfortable chairs and a small bar merge with a wooden deck over the river. Delicious meals are served here, or in the thatched dining area, close to the camp’s waterhole, while loungers around the small pool offer yet more options for relaxation – or watching the birds.

While it’s the natural world that underpins the camp’s ambience, its location, a relatively short drive from the small airport, makes it exceptionally accessible – even during the “emerald” season when most camps in the South Luangwa are closed.

"Perry is supremely knowledgeable, one of the best guides I have ever experienced"

The Sand MartinsfromOxon

Arrived 11 Sep 2024, 3 nights

Nkwali’s other trump card is a private pontoon across the river into the national park, where you’ll seek out wildlife with expert guides on 4WD game drives and short walking safaris. See our full report on Nkwali

Robin Pope Safaris offers the only real mobile-camping option in Zambia's South Luangwa National Park. Staying in their simple, but comfortable, mobile camps gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the wilderness, connect with nature and discover the essence of this exceptional park entirely on foot, without resorting to a vehicle.

"We were so well looked after."

Mrs MfromAppledore

Arrived 13 Jul 2022, 7 nights

Staying in RPS mobile safari camps as part of a walking safari is a brilliant way to experience the wilderness of the South Luangwa. Purely walking safaris don't suit everyone, so if luxury and four walls are a priority, it might be worth looking at some of our permanent tented camps in the national park. However, if you are looking for adventure in remote, untouched areas of the park, sleeping out under the stars, with no vehicles in sight, we would highly recommend this option. See our full report on Robin Pope Safaris Mobile Safari Camp

This laid-back camp, steeped in South Luangwa history, has quality guiding and dining in a beautiful riverside setting. Nsefu was opened in 1951, the first camp in the South Luangwa and the brainchild of the renowned conservationist and guide, Norman Carr. Norman pioneered walking safaris here to benefit conservation and communities long before responsible tourism became a buzzword.

In the intervening years, the camp has preserved its history in its unique and unassuming charm. The bar and lounge have old black-and-white photos of Carr's safari days, and the six small rondavels, unique in the Valley, retain their original characteristics with the addition of small terraces that look out towards the Luangwa River.

Nsefu's dining room was gobbled up as the river changed course, so they now offer “nomadic dining” depending on the season – under the stars, under the shade of trees, or even a private dinner for two on top of a huge dormant termite mound – far more romantic than it sounds!

The camp's location, within the Nsefu Sector, features superb wildlife, and the camp itself provides some fantastic sightings in the dry season, with huge herds of buffalo and elephants meandering across the river. Pukus seem to be ever-present, quietly eating the crimson petals of the camp's mature sausage trees, and birds continually dip into the camp waterhole

"excellent camp, atmosphere and service"

Ms P.from40

Arrived 4 Nov 2024, 4 nights

Nsefu’s laid-back charm continues to entice guest back time and time again. See our full report on Nsefu