Shawa Luangwa Camp, South Luangwa, Zambia, Asia

Shawa Luangwa occupies a spectacular position on the banks of the Luangwa River in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park, one of Africa’s most celebrated safari destinations. Set in the remote Nsefu Sector, an area renowned for its exceptional wildlife and unspoilt wilderness, the camp offers an immersive escape into one of the Luangwa Valley’s most beautiful landscapes. Here, the river winds through a mosaic of lagoons, oxbow lakes, open plains and mature woodland, creating a rich variety of habitats that support an extraordinary diversity of wildlife.

Game viewing is rewarding throughout the year, with the opportunity to encounter elephant, buffalo, hippo, lion, leopard and African wild dog, alongside an abundance of antelope and smaller mammals. The Luangwa Valley is particularly renowned for its leopard sightings, while the riverbanks attract impressive concentrations of wildlife, especially as the dry season progresses. This is also one of the finest places in Africa to experience the magic of a walking safari, with South Luangwa’s expert guides bringing the smaller details of the bush to life, from animal tracks and birdsong to the intricate relationships between species. The region is also home to two distinctive local specialities, Thornicroft’s giraffe and Cookson’s wildebeest, adding another layer of interest to this remarkable wilderness.

Shawa Luangwa combines the intimacy of a small, thoughtfully designed safari camp with a deep sense of place. Its riverside setting, understated luxury and close connection to nature make it an appealing choice for those seeking a more personal and unhurried safari experience, far removed from the crowds.