Mwamba Bush Camp

South Luangwa National Park, Zambia - Classic 4

Once a hiding spot for poachers, Derek had the vision to develop a bush camp on this site to ensure the safety of the wildlife in our surrounding areas – so Mwamba was born.

Mwamba’s tranquil chalets are authentically recreated each year, and feature woven bamboo and reed. Each chalet is set along the banks of the dry, meandering Mwamba riverbed with comfortable, shaded verandas from which to enjoy the abundant birdlife and feeling of total serenity. Clean and silent solar power provides each room with lighting and cooling fans for the summer months. The ensuite, outdoor bathrooms elevate the bush experience further with double basins complemented by stunning copper tapware, beautiful live-edge mirrors, and showers tucked into the trees for a gorgeous back-to-nature feel.

The bush-style “chitenge” is set under the deep shade of huge ebony trees, while the spacious deck offers a relaxing space with breathtaking views of the Mwamba river. It serves as a perfect spot for relaxation, providing an excellent vantage point for wildlife sightings. A spectacular sunset viewing point on top of a large termite mound and a glowing campfire under the stars completes the camp’s friendly and personal atmosphere.

Numbu Star Bed

At Mwamba, you have the chance to spend the night on our Numbu Star Bed, set in a wide-open savannah plain. You will sleep in a very comfortable bed while listening to the nocturnal noises of the African bush. The Numbu Star Bed is an exceptional add-on to your safari experience with Shenton Safaris, immersing you into the wild night. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary, a birthday, or just looking to spend a night where only a mosquito net separates you from the night sky. We highly recommend the Numbu Star Bed on nights with a new moon for the incredible view of the starry sky, but it is just as unbelievable on a full moon to see Numbu Plains flooded with moonlight, you never know what you’ll get to see!

The Numbu Star Bed is exclusive to guests staying at Mwamba and is a 15-minute drive from Mwamba. The sleeping platform is beautifully set with a queen-sized bed, warm duvet, washing basin, lanterns and a large mosquito net. A bush toilet (long drop) is available on the ground, under the platform. An armed scout and a guide will spend the night in a nearby boma and will be equipped with a radio, in case of a change of heart. Belongings are kept in your chalet and you are encouraged to take essential toiletries to the Star Bed.

Hides at Mwamba

Of the extensive network of photographic hides that are exclusively available to our guests, Mwamba has exclusive access to the Last Waterhole Hide. Guests at Mwamba can also enjoy time spent in the Wild Dog Lagoon Hide, and the Carmine Bee-eater Hide when it is put in place. With two mobile hides in the Kaingo workshop, it means you may also have the chance to visit additional hides during your time with us.