South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Renovated
2024
Price
$$$$
Rated for
Design Local LuxeOutside the door
The house
Time + TideModernist safari roost
Sandy paths wind under ancient msikizi trees between open-air canvas pavilions and a fire pit overlooking the river bend.
What it’s good at
Remarkable
Curved canvas walls and recycled timber decks blend modernist geometry with traditional Zambian thatched roofing under mature trees.
Remarkable
Villas overlook the Luangwa River, offering direct views of bathing elephants, riverine wildlife, and guided bush walks.
Notable
Private plunge pools, climate-controlled canopy beds, soaking tubs, and attentive safari hosts elevate the remote riverside stay.
What they say
UK Readers' Choice Awards – Africa
Condé Nast Traveler
2025
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Situated on a private river bend, the camp offers direct boat access to South Luangwa's prime wildlife sectors and guided bush walks.
The rooms
Six canvas villas feature eco-cooled canopy beds, freestanding soaking tubs, and private timber verandahs with plunge pools facing river wildlife.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The main pool stretches along the timber riverfront deck, looking out over the water toward the opposite bank.
The spa
Therapists set up massage tables directly on private timber decks, using body oils made with African botanicals.
At the table
Dining tables are set along the grassy riverbank at twilight, following sundowners at the open-air timber bar.
How it began
The site once served as a base camp for Norman Carr, the conservationist who pioneered walking safaris in the Luangwa Valley.
South Luangwa National Park
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.