Mwaleshi Camp (North Luangwa National Park) Zambia
Location
Mwaleshi Camp is situated on a scenic bend of the Mwaleshi River, a clear water perennial stream feeding the Luangwa river in North Luangwa National Park, a remote area of Zambia renowned for its large population of lion, huge herds of buffalo and endemic Cookson's Wildebeest. The remoteness of the North Park is enhanced by the lack of roads. Miles from anywhere, the outside world melts away as nature surprises, delights and soothes the senses. This remote and rustic camp is for the safari enthusiast who wants to feel the earth beneath their feet. Game viewing at Mwaleshi is only on foot, led by a highly skilled and armed ranger, but bring a bathing suit for the occasional refreshing dip in the Mwaleshi at the Mwaleshi Falls.
The North Luangwa and Mwaleshi are not for everyone, but for those seeking a true wilderness experience in a remote and intimate safari camp, under the guidance of some of Zambia's most experienced 'bush folk', it's hard to imagine a camp more perfect than Mwaleshi. The North Luangwa National Park is a 35 minute flight from Tafika or 45 from Mfuwe. Notable differences to South Luangwa are the remoteness (very unlikely to encounter other visitors), large population of lions and hyenas, and the beautiful clear Mwaleshi river in which you can safely bathe. Mwaleshi Camp is seasonally operated from 15 June to 31 October.
Accommodation
Mwaleshi is a grass pole bush camp which accommodates up to eight guests in four thatched reed chalets. The four chalets are hand built and finished with local reeds in hues of orange and gold in harmony with their surroundings. The walls at Mwaleshi Camp are built only half way up and are then open to the ceiling, giving that inside/outside feel. The chalets contain large comfortable beds and en-suite flush toilets but no running water, which is provided in jugs for use in hand basins. There are two shared use showers with views across the river and if you have never tried an outdoor shower, you will love the feeling. There is no electricity in camp and lighting is provided by solar storm lanterns but the sun does provide power for refrigeration.
All the chalets at Mwaleshi Camp look towards the Mwaleshi River where the presence of hippos is announced by charismatic grunting. The nights in the Luangwa are pure magic - secure beneath cool cotton sheets and a mosquito net, you are lulled into deep sleep by distant lion grunts and hyena whoops fading into the night.
Activities / Wildlife
Activities Game Walks All safaris at Mwaleshi Camp are conducted on foot, which is the traditional way of exploring the area. Excellent guides lead the way through this scenic area bisected by the Mwaleshi River and one travel writer rated a swimming trip to the Mwaleshi Falls as one of the 'Top highlights in Zambia'.
With virtually no roads in the entire North Luangwa National Park, almost all game-viewing is done on foot, accompanied by a highly skilled guide and an armed game scout. Guests should not expect to see as much game as they would at camps offering game-drives, but the encounters are more intimate, and the sense of wilderness unrivalled. The birding here is also fantastic.
All safaris are led by very experienced guides - dedicated conservationists with a special talent for sharing their love of the bush with others.
Bangweulu Swamps Trips to the Bangweulu Swamps, famous for the Shoebill Stork and thousands of Black Lechwe can be organized from Mwaleshi Camp.
Accommodation Rates:- From $650 per person per night sharing. Please contact us for a quote and suggested itinerary.