Mchenja, meaning "ebony", occupies a stunning setting beneath a magnificent grove of ebony trees on the banks of the Luangwa River in the South Luangwa National Park. Mchenja is a luxurious, elegant and stylish tented camp overlooking a huge sweeping bend in the Luangwa.
Guests staying at Mchenja can choose whether they want to view their wildlife on foot or from an open game viewing vehicle. South Luangwa is one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, and not without reason. The concentration of game around the Luangwa River and its ox bow lagoons is among the most intense in Africa.
The Park has 14 different antelope species, most of which are easily seen on game and night drives. Further out on the plains you're bound to see family groups of elephant collectively reaching up to 70 in number. Buffalo are abundant and the herds can reach up to 1,000 during the dry season. Thornicroft's Giraffe, unique to Luangwa Valley should be easily spotted and are plentiful throughout the riverine areas.
South Luangwa has an excellent population of leopard as the terrain and large number of small game makes a perfect habitat for this most beautiful but elusive cat. Lions are also plentiful. Night drives are usually very rewarding, with the bush revealing a different nocturnal surprise every time.
Each of the 4 safari rooms has its own private en-suite open air bathroom plus Victorian style baths with river view. There is also a 2 bedroomed/2 bathroom family suite, which is the perfect retreat for friends and families traveling together.
The beautiful central chitenje (lounge) is built around one of the old fallen Mchenja (ebony) trees and guests can cool off there in the camp's plunge pool - just be ready to share with the thirsty elephants!
Brunch is taken in the shady lounge but dinner is often served on the river bank under the stars.
All meals; bar drinks and house wines; all shared game-viewing activities; Park fees; a laundry service; inter-camp transfers; and transfers to/from Mfuwe Airport are included.
Children Policy
Chldren aged 8 years and older are welcome. Rates available on request. Children younger than 12 years are not permitted on walking safaris.
Bush Walks / Walking Safaris
Children under the age of 12 years are not permitted on guided walks. A guided walk can last a couple of hours and involve walking over uneven terrain that may contain dangerous wildlife in potentially high temperatures. Guests may need to move quickly and for a sustained period through rough bush terrain if instructed to do so by their guide.
Regardless of age, the final decision on whether a guest can join a guided walk remains with the guide and lodge manager.
All of the holidays we prepare are tailor-made, but this might give you an idea of how Mchenja Bush Camp can be included in you own dream holiday.
In Norman Carr's Footsteps
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Mchenja Bush Camp
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Chinzombo
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Destination: Zambia.
Follow in the footsteps of the legendary Norman Carr, a true pioneer in progressive conservation. Combining an unspoilt wilderness of tranquil rivers, ancient forests and open pans, this itinerary offers an authentic and immersive once-in-a-lifetime walking safari experience that celebrates the wilderness and allows guests to reconnect with nature in a meaningful way. Please note that this itinerary is seasonal, and therefore only available between 20 May and 31 October.
This is a 10 night itinerary including South Luangwa National Park.
*Prices are per person and are based on today's exchange rates. Exchange rates are subject to change and are updated daily.
Prices exclude international flights - ask us if you would like to include these.
Reload Map
Mchenja Bush Camp Location.
General Information For Guests
The rooms are all en-suite with an outside shower, bathtub and a private deck overlooking the river.
The main area consists of the open air lounge, dining area and swimming pool.
The activities available at Mchenja include day/night game drives, walking safaris and and sleepouts under the stars.
The camp runs on solar power and there is no internet or mobile phone signal.
Mchenja is a 2.5 hour game drive away from Mfuwe Airport.
The cam is open from the 20th May - 7th November.
Bush Walks / Walking Safaris
Children under the age of 12 years are not permitted on guided walks. A guided walk can last a couple of hours and involve walking over uneven terrain that may contain dangerous wildlife in potentially high temperatures. Guests may need to move quickly and for a sustained period through rough bush terrain if instructed to do so by their guide.
Regardless of age, the final decision on whether a guest can join a guided walk remains with the guide and lodge manager.