Kapamba Bushcamp - Experience
In an untouched corner of the South Luangwa National Park, nestled in a prime location on the banks of the Kapamba River, is Kapamba bushcamp; a small, intimate camp that combines the seclusion and ideal game-viewing opportunities of a true bushcamp with modern comforts and luxury. Kapamba is one of a few Zambian safari camps that have set the standard for exclusivity and seclusion, and being surrounded by some of the park's richest wildlife, has developed into an ultimate romantic destination.
Experience
Kapamba bushcamp offers guests both walking safaris and game drives. There are numerous walking trails from the camp that follow the course of the river, although guests needn't leave Kapamba to view game; the river near the camp attracts a variety of wildlife, and its raised wooden decks provide a great vantage point for game-spotting. Guests can enjoy the exhilarating experience of watching an elephant take a dip in the river while lounging in a plunge pool on their private deck, or can explore the rich diversity of the surrounding area on an early morning walking safari, and then later in the day, jump into a safari vehicle for an afternoon/evening game drive. There is some flexibility with this though, should guests wish to go on alternative activities. For special occasions, an afternoon wading through the cool waters of the Kapamba for a scenic sundowner or a romantic meal can be arranged. The river is shallow enough to ensure that there are no crocodiles or hippos, making it the perfect exclusive setting.
Given its location on a sandy floodplain, Kapamba is open longer than most remote camps, as the area doesn’t get as water-logged as others in the Luangwa Valley. During the wetter months access to the camp is through the southern gate, rather than via the Mfuwe Bridge, and activities are centred on walking safaris (game drives are virtually impossible during the wet season). Kapamba is ideal for couples or small groups seeking a personalized, remote bush experience, great hospitality and spectacular opportunities to explore this magnificent wildlife sanctuary.
Accommodation
The charm and romance of Kapamba is most apparent in its four spacious en-suite chalets. Beautifully simple and utterly original, these entirely open-fronted rooms boast wide verandas with river views from the beds, twin showers and sunken stone plunge pools. These, rather notorious, baths are very large, apparently the result of a misunderstanding at the building stage, but they work well, take surprisingly little time to fill, and have a wonderful view of the river and surrounding bush. Concertina wrought-iron shutters are drawn each evening so that even the most nervous guest can enjoy the sights and sounds of the African night without worrying about unwanted visitors wandering in during the night. Two of the chalets have twin beds (two queen-sized beds), while the other two each have a king-sized beds.
Kapamba's central communal area is positioned under the shade of matumi and sausage trees; a wide deck stretches out to the front with views of the Kapamba River. Built partially of stone, it is open at the sides and front, and has a high thatched roof which keeps it cool, even during the hotter months. Wooden rafters, an earthy polished stone floor and contemporary, safari-chic furnishings blend well and retain a classic bushcamp style. Outside, the expansive wooden deck is the camp's focal point, with a seating area that makes a wonderful spot to watch the animals that come down to drink at the river. On warm evenings, the dining tables are set up outside for a candlelit dinner under the African starry sky.