South Luangwa
Boasting one of the most picturesque locations of any bush camp in the Luangwa, Mchenja is set high on the banks of the river in a shady grove of mchenja (ebony) trees from which the camp takes its name. This northern section of the park is awash with animals and daily game drives offer wonderful sightings, from the baboons swinging in the trees to the predators stalking across the plains. A stylish tented haven, Mchenja perfectly balances a little bit of luxury with a true wilderness experience.
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A beautiful fallen mchenja tree forms the centrepiece of the thatched main area, covering a small seating area, a well-stocked bar and a mini plunge pool. Weathered wood and stylish black and white linens add a touch of elegance. Brunch is normally served under the thatch and dinner out in the open next to the river. Afterwards, retire to the glowing embers of the fire with a whisky and listen to the sounds of the Zambian night.
Spaced out along an elevated stretch of river bank, Mchenja’s 5 chalets look out to the lawn and river beyond. Mosquito-netted windows in the octagonal tents allow a welcome breeze to pass through and all come complete with king size beds, comfortable armchairs and wrought iron wardrobes. Elegant roll top baths are the ultimate luxury, but if that doesn’t take your fancy, shower with a view in the open-air bathrooms.
There are big cats, buffalo and elephant aplenty in the area and game drives cover lots of ground to produce consistently excellent sightings. Walking is also possible and an amble in the ebony grove or along the river is a lovely way to discover the finer details of the bush. Walking can also be combined in a transfer if staying at one of the sister camps, accompanied by quick pit-stop for coffee and biscuits along the way.
The riverside location is simply beautiful and an afternoon in camp, watching the hippos in the river and the birds in the mchenja trees overhead is hard to beat.
If you’re keen to try an authentic Zambian walking safari but don’t want to forgo game drives, this is the place to visit as both are on offer most days.
Although very stylish, Mchenja is still a rustic bush camp and the facilities aren’t uber fancy; there are no fans or fridges in the rooms here – but there is a small swimming pool in the lounge.
The Time + Tide Foundation is dedicated to preserving natural environments and supporting nearby communities, and guests contribute to sustainability purely by visiting their properties. The foundation focuses on community and school-based learning, female empowerment, health, and wildlife conservation. Through initiatives like student sponsorship, it aims to ensure the long-term prosperity of wildlife economies and foster positive social change in Time + Tide communities. A contribution of $10 per guest, which is included in the nightly rate, goes towards the above goals.
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