Walking Wild Africa

In June 2024, I had the opportunity to explore both Kaingo Camp and Mwamba Bush Camp, operated by Shenton Safaris in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. Although I didn’t stay overnight, I was thoroughly impressed by the camps’ thoughtful design, rustic charm, and the immersive wildlife experiences they offer. Both camps exemplify a deep commitment to conservation and provide unique settings for observing the rich biodiversity of South Luangwa National Park.

South Luangwa National Park: A Biodiversity Hotspot

South Luangwa National Park spans over 9,000 square kilometers and is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. The Luangwa River, with its oxbow lagoons and seasonal floodplains, supports a variety of habitats that are home to over 60 mammal species and more than 400 bird species. Notably, the park is one of the best places in Africa to see leopards, and it’s the birthplace of the walking safari, offering visitors intimate encounters with nature.

Shenton Safaris: A Legacy of Conservation

Shenton Safaris is a family-run operation with a strong focus on conservation and sustainable tourism. Derek and Jules Shenton, the third generation of conservationists in their family, have developed Kaingo and Mwamba camps to offer authentic safari experiences while minimizing environmental impact. Their efforts include supporting local communities, engaging in anti-poaching initiatives, and maintaining a low ecological footprint through solar power and eco-friendly practices.

Kaingo Camp: Riverside Elegance

Kaingo Camp is situated on the banks of the Luangwa River, offering guests stunning views and close proximity to wildlife. The camp features six chalets, each with a private deck overlooking the river, outdoor bathtubs, and en-suite bathrooms. The chalets are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment, providing comfort without compromising the wilderness experience.

A standout feature of Kaingo is its unique photographic hides, such as the Hippo Hide and the Elephant Hide, which allow guests to observe and photograph wildlife at close range without disturbance. The central lounge and dining area, built around a thousand-year-old leadwood tree, serves as a communal space for guests to relax and share stories.

Mwamba Bush Camp: Rustic Charm in the Wilderness

Located approximately 3 kilometers from Kaingo, Mwamba Bush Camp offers a more rustic and intimate safari experience. The camp comprises four reed and thatch chalets with open-air en-suite bathrooms, providing guests with the unique experience of sleeping under the stars. Mwamba operates entirely off-grid, utilizing solar power and sustainable practices to minimize its environmental impact.

Mwamba is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly at the Last Waterhole Hide, which attracts a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, and leopards. The camp’s location in a remote area of the park ensures a high level of exclusivity and immersion in nature.

Wildlife Encounters

Both Kaingo and Mwamba camps are situated in prime game-viewing areas of South Luangwa National Park. Guests can expect to encounter a wide range of wildlife, including:

• Leopards: The park is known for its high density of leopards, offering frequent sightings.
• Lions: Large prides are commonly observed, particularly near Mwamba’s Last Waterhole Hide.
• Elephants and Buffalo: These animals are often seen near the camps and along the riverbanks.
• Thornicroft’s Giraffe: An endemic species to the Luangwa Valley, easily spotted in the area.
• Birdlife: Over 400 bird species, including carmine bee-eaters, which nest along the riverbanks.

Wildlife Hides at Shenton Safaris: A Photographer’s Dream

One of the standout features of Shenton Safaris’ Kaingo and Mwamba camps is their series of purpose-built wildlife hides—widely regarded as some of the best in Africa. Thoughtfully positioned and seasonally adjusted to ensure prime visibility, these hides allow for close, unobtrusive observation and photography of wildlife.

Highlights Include:

• Hippo Hide (Kaingo Camp): Nestled into the riverbank, this hide puts you at eye level with pods of hippos and crocodiles. It’s shaded and discreet, offering a cool retreat during the heat of the day and exceptional photographic angles.
• Elephant Hide (Kaingo Camp): Built into an ebony tree overlooking a natural elephant crossing, this raised platform offers rare views of elephant herds moving along their regular pathways.
• Carmine Bee-Eater Hide: A seasonal favorite among birders, this floating hide allows close-up views of vibrant carmine bee-eaters nesting in the riverbanks—perfect for high-speed bird photography.
• The Last Waterhole Hide (Mwamba Camp): This ground-level hide overlooks one of the area’s last remaining water sources in the dry season, attracting lions, elephants, leopards, hyenas, and various antelope. It’s especially rewarding during early mornings and evenings.
• Mobile Hides: Shenton also constructs pop-up hides depending on animal movements and seasonal behaviors, always aiming to give guests the best chance at spectacular sightings.

These hides are not just for professional photographers. Even guests with smartphones or no camera at all will enjoy the thrill of being just meters from Africa’s iconic wildlife, all while remaining safely out of sight.

Planning Your Visit

The optimal time to visit Kaingo and Mwamba camps is during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife congregates around water sources, making for exceptional viewing opportunities. Both camps are seasonal and operate during this period to provide the best safari experiences.