Zikomo Safari Camp, South Luangwa | Timbuktu Travel
South Luangwa

Zikomo Safari Camp

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About Zikomo Safari Camp

Affordable and rustic hospitality in Zambia's game-rich Luangwa Valley.
South Luangwa National Park in eastern Zambia is well-known for its potent game viewing and dense river-life. Drive along the Luangwa River, which forms the south-eastern border of the park, and see crowded pods of boulder-like hippos that practically stymie the river's flow. Zikomo Safaris is strung along the banks of the river, set behind a wide plain in an old-growth forest. The winsome hospitality of this family-owned lodge is deft but unfussy. With both chalets and campsites, Zikomo caters to a wide spectrum of travelers and their budgets. Good guiding and a lively restaurant atmosphere push this camp a notch above the rest.
From $770 per person/per night
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Property details

The property

The expansive thatched structure of the main hall forms the centre of the camp's activity, where guests congregate for meals, relax and enjoy a drink from the bar or make use of the complimentary Wi-Fi. The hall's elevated position and open sides keep things cool. Just adjacent is a lovely large swimming pool, surrounded by umbrellas and lounge chairs. There are also a few hammocks strung in choice spots. Guests can keep active at the open-sided gym. Campers and self-caterers can make use of the barbecue facilities and picnic area.

The rooms

There are nine chalets at Zikomo, each with a view across the floodplain and river. Four rooms are elevated about a metre off the ground; one of these rooms sleeps up to six adults while the others sleep three. Rooms are made of thatch and wood with simple African-inspired decor and furnishings. All have ensuite bathrooms with toilets and showers, some with an additional deep bathtub. Self-drivers will enjoy the campsite that accommodates up to twenty guests and has excellent river views. Each site has its own shady lapa overhang and there are two convenient ablution blocks with showers and washing-up facilities.

Activities

Activities revolve around game drives in the national park and are indeed the best way to spot a variety of game in a variety of habitats. Inclusive rates allow two activities a day. Night drives are possible within the park - quite special since they are rarely permitted in national parks in general. The area along the river is often extremely productive and the river itself is usually brimming with hippos and crocodiles - some of the densest numbers in all of Africa. Tracking wild dogs is a special focus here, since there is a good population in the region, however other predators are also prevalent. Guided walks take place on the island across from camp, and village tours in the local community can be arranged.

What you'll love

What you'll love

The restaurant is hearty and fun and serves locally-inspired fare with a good dose of convivial atmosphere!
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

Stay in one of the elevated chalets for exceptional views over the floodplains and river, with a lovely shady veranda from which to enjoy it.
Something to think about

Something to think about

Campers and self-drivers are often milling around which can give the lodge quite a ‘backpacker-y’ feel.
Trips

South Luangwa Tours & Trips

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Zambia

South Luangwa National Park

The home of the walking-safari, chic yet rustic bush camps and incredible guides.