Chamilandu Bushcamp

Just like the rest of the camp, the main area at Chami is cosy, intimate and understatedly elegant. The thatched banda is literally metres away from Luangwa River, perched on the edge of the riverbank, and views of the setting sun are jaw-droppingly perfect. Inside is the ultimate in safari-cool with hanging chairs, a couple of low-slung sofas and a beachy sand floor. Outside, there’s a permanent campfire for porridge and tea in the morning and cold Mosis in the evening.

Raised 2 metres off the ground on timber decks and with only three reed walls and completely open fronts, these are bedrooms with a view! Each has a wonderful deck at the front, complete with very stylish chairs, and heavenly open-air bathrooms for wildlife-watching at every minute. Two of the rooms have twin queen beds whilst the third has a vast king-size number and black mozzie nets and stylish wood fittings complete the Afro-chic vibe.

With only six guests at any one time, activities at Chamilandu are usually done communally, as are most meals. The wake-up call is early (made better by tea and toast at the fire) for a morning walk before the heat of the day and in the afternoon, an evening drive and sundowners that can be extended into the night for a chance to spot Zambia’s elusive nightlife.