One of only a handful of camps open in the Green Season, Kakuli is a relaxed and intimate oasis in area renowned for frequent sightings of the notoriously elusive leopard. Perched on a high bank, the 4 chalets all have expansive views across the Luangwa river and down to a grazing lawn where antelope congregate to nibble on the green grass. Game viewing is spectacular year round and this, combined with the encyclopaedic knowledge of the resident guides, puts Kakuli high on the list of ultimate safari hot spots.




The thatched main area is small but fits the bill; help yourself to a drink from the well-stocked bar and watch the wildlife strolling by or delve into the library and read about the original Kakuli, Norman Carr. In the morning, breakfast is served around a cleverly designed fire-pit on the wooden decking as the sun peeps over the horizon. For lunch and dinner, a cool, open sided chitenge provides the perfect spot to recount the day’s safari tales.
With their intricate grass walls and high thatched roofs, Kakuli’s four chalets blend seamlessly into the surrounding wilderness. Perched above the river, each offers picture-perfect river views either from the bed or the outdoor sofa, so you’ll never miss a second of view-gazing. The décor is pure safari-chic – think calming hues of green and blue, lots of wicker furniture and simple handmade desks and wardrobes. Each room has either a king size or two twin beds and the ensuite bathrooms are covered (welcome in the green season!) with hot running water and a flushing loo.
With both drives and walking safaris on offer it’s up to you how you discover the wildlife of Kakuli but rest assured, there’s lots of it. Walking safaris leave straight from camp and can be part of a transfer to one of the sister camps in the Norman Carr circuit. Game drives are also outstanding. In the green season, boating on the river and walking safaris are the name of the game with no vehicle access.
The chalets. Each is big enough for a whole herd of elephants to enjoy and the river views steal the show.
If you only visit one bush camp in the South Luangwa, let Kakuli be it. It's got a perfect mix of walking and driving, incredible sightings, even more incredible guides and a fun and relaxed nature. We love.
The chalets are very open to the elements so if things with wings make you nervous, be warned!
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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The home of the walking-safari, chic yet rustic bush camps and incredible guides.