Reviews of Luwi Bushcamp
Wildlife sightings and reviews
39 independent comments and wildlife information from our travellers who have visited Luwi Bushcamp and kindly agreed to share their thoughts. They do not necessarily represent the views of Expert Africa
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"Luwi Bushcamp review"
The thatched rooms were replaced by tents last season and this seems to work well. We love canvas and zippers, it really adds to the bush vibe.
Our tent 3 was spacious and well layed out, plenty of storage space, although and extra hook or two to hang a towel or a jacket would be welcome. Two directors seats in front of the tent allowed for wonderful views over the dry Luwi riverbed.
Tents 1 and 2 are well protected from the sun by large trees, however tents 3 and 4 are much more exposed leading to quite high temperatures inside the tent. The fan provides welcome relieve, however we can imagine conditions to be quite uncomfortable later in the season as temperatures rise. Especially our bathroom area was in full sun most of the day, making the toilet a very hot seat. We improvised by rearranging a sideflap of the tent for some shade, possibly a more permanent solution could provide relief for future guests?
Another slight criticism is about the towels and refreshers, they smelled a bit musty as if they weren’t washed at high enough temperature or not fully dried, this comment applies to the other Time+Tide camps we stayed at too.
As there was only one guide available the first 2 nights due to the low occupancy we were restricted to gamedrives those days as the other guest wouldn’t/couldn’t do walking safaris. This was disappointing at first as we expected the gamedrives to be rather limited and had set our minds on walking. But obviously the opportunities for drives have improved a lot, many tracks aside from the establishment limited road network were available, making for varied drives and the other guest was on the “same frequency” as us as to how to experience the bush so these drives turned out to be lovely.
Most important factor in that succes however was our guide Lawrence: what a beacon of knowledge, kindness, a true gentleman too, the best of the best for sure and an example for many. Especially on the walks he would shine, showing us every intricate detail, very educational and entertaining at the same time, we loved to hear how plants and trees are used as local medicine and appreciated Lawrence’s concern that obvious outside, modern influences have left people to abandon these very effective measures." See all these reviews: 16n in Zambia
"Luwi Bushcamp review"
"Luwi Bushcamp review"
"Luwi Bushcamp perfect"
"Beautiful Camp"
However, something was amiss. The host was absent, and a young hostess from Chinzombo was there, but seemingly specifically to entertain one particular group of guests (including joining them on game drives). It wasn't clear what the relationship was, but it was very flirtatious and made me feel uncomfortable. Norman Carr seem very flexible and happy to have guests at Luwi who are not much interested, or not at all interested in walking. As I wanted to walk the whole time I did end up feeling somewhat out of place. Not due to the guide, Lawrence, who welcomed me as someone after his own heart. But somehow it felt like Luwi had lost its soul." See all these reviews: 14n in Zambia
"Luwi Bushcamp"
Lawrence and Frank looked after us very well" See all these reviews: 9n in Zambia; 1n in South Africa
"Luwi Bushcamp review"
We highly appreciated Judy's cooking !
Friendly relaxed atmosphere and very helpful staff." See all these reviews: 9n in Zambia
"Lions roaring at night!"
We'd never done a walking safari before & we didn't see any of the Big 5 on our walks, but that was OK. We saw lots of plants, smaller animals & just enjoyed being out in the wild. We did hear lions roaring nearby on both nights - that was super exciting! Rooms were rustic, yet super comfortable & we loved the open-air bathrooms & showers (plenty of hot water).
Manager Frank & guide Brian obviously have a great relationship & they are so hilarious to swap stories with during meals & during happy hour. Staying at Luwi was an awesome way to start our adventures in South Luangwa!" See all these reviews: 9n in Zambia; 4n in Malawi
"Luwi the real Bushcamp experience!"
Definately a Bush Camp, so remote but so wonderfully designed and wonderfull peoples there. Stayed only for 2 nights but would have loved to stay longer there. Lawrence the Guide was extraordinary and the Walks there were just fantastic.
I was really impressed! Thanks" See all these reviews: 9n in Zambia
"rustic luxury in the bush"
Quality of guiding very good indeed which made the walks even better. A superb setting with an amazing night chorus of lion, hyena ,honey badger, hippo and wild dog !" See all these reviews: 10n in Zambia
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