MWALESHI CAMP – NORTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

Mwaleshi Camp is located in the vast wilderness of North Luangwa National Park within a rhino sanctuary and is a 40 minute flight from Mfuwe Airport. Hidden within a scenic bend of the Mwaleshi River 10km upstream of the confluence with the Luangwa River – the camp is a truly special and remarkable place.

There are few roads in this remote area and the majority of activities are done on foot following existing animal trails. All senses become attuned to the surrounding bush as you experience the variations of diversity in the area.

Walkers enjoy the freedom of exploring the area around the camp on foot accompanied by an experienced manager/guide and an armed National Park scout. A vehicle is available which drops off and collects guests from the airstrip and attractions further afield can be explored – such as the Mwaleshi Falls which is located upstream of the camp.

With just four thatched chalets rebuilt annually out of natural materials, ensuite bathrooms open to the stars and uninterrupted views of the spectacular Mwaleshi River – the camp offers you a remoteness and feeling of solitude and seclusion. Life in camp is comfortable yet refreshingly simple.

LOCATION

Mwaleshi is located in the North Luangwa National Park in Zambia. Access is by flight from Lusaka to Mfuwe and it is a further 40 minute flight to camp.

CAMP

There are just 4 thatched grass and reed chalets set on the banks of the Mwaleshi River. The chalets have proper beds, mosquito netting, woven grass mats and local textiles and there is an open air ensuite bathroom with outdoor shower, toilet and basins.

The main areas are also constructed of grass and reeds under thatch and offer a lounge with comfy seating and a dining area and bar. There is a solar communal charging area and there is no WIFI available.

ACTIVITIES AND WILDLIFE

Home to the majority of big game – including lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo – the Luangwa Valley also boasts two endemic sub-species: Thornicroft’s Giraffe and Cookson’s Wildebeest. An impressive concentration of both hippos and crocodiles makes the Luangwa River one of the most wildlife-dense in Africa.

Smaller mammals and over 450 recorded species of birds add to the game viewing experiences. The Luangwa Valley is home to four National parks: South Luangwa, North Luangwa, Luambe and Lukusuzi. Remote Africa Safaris operates in both the South and North Luangwa National Parks. South Luangwa National Park covers 9,050km2 in eastern Zambia.

North Luangwa National Park covers 4,636km2 in northern Zambia. It lies in Africa’s Great Rift Valley ecosystem, on the western bank of the Luangwa River. There is a wide range of species diversity within the park, including Zambia’s elephant stronghold, the world’s largest concentration of hippos, Zambia’s only black rhino population, one of the highest lion densities in the region and it is home to Zambia’s endemic Cooksons wildebeest. It is possible to see wild dogs in the area.

Mwaleshi Camp is seasonally operated and is open during the dry season from the 15th June to the 31st October every year. Due to its remote location, you can often experience exclusive sightings.

Walking Safaris – enjoy an intimate safari experience tracking wild animals on natural wildlife trails through wilderness that is only accessible on foot and untarnished by vehicle tracks.

Walking safaris are always led by an experienced Remote Africa Safaris guide, an armed National Park scout and accompanied by a tea bearer. Morning walks are approximately 4 hours long with a pace set by the present walkers. Enjoy a rest along the way for a hot cup of tea or coffee and sweet treat alongside a lagoon and soak up the natural surrounds.

On foot you are given the rare opportunity to experience the bush at nature’s pace and to be immersed in the wonders that present themselves at every turn. Go back in time and learn how to make fire the natural way with some sticks, elephant dung and a touch of skill. Discover the delights of the bush, from the fascinating insects that live within animal droppings, tiny elephant shrews, delicate wide-eyed antelope to towering giraffe, enormous elephant and huge herds of buffalo with prides of lion in tow.

Specialist Birding – the South Luangwa showcases 469 recorded bird species, and the North Luangwa showcases 416 recorded species.

Remote Africa Safaris is a bird-lover’s paradise with sightings of Bat Hawks and Pel’s Fishing Owls; great flocks of Crowned Cranes; a breeding colony of Yellow Billed Storks and Carmine bee-eaters; and visits from the White Winged Babbling Starling and Yellow-Throated Long Claw. All Remote Africa Safaris guides are excellent and enthusiastic birders.

Sleep outs – are for the more adventurous looking to become in tune with the wilderness of the Luangwa. Feast on a delicious dinner cooked over the flames of a raw wood fire out on a remote bend of the Mwaleshi river. Sip on a night cap around the fire before retiring to bed – a camper mattress on the ground tucked under a net leaving unobstructed views of the night’s sky.

The safety of having an experienced guide and armed scout nearby ensures a sweet night’s sleep while you listen to the natural calls of the bush. Sleep outs must be pre-booked as they are a ‘whole camp’ activity. They may be done at no additional cost.

MWESHI IS CLOSED FROM THE 1ST NOVEMBER THROUGH TO THE 14TH JUNE EVERY YEAR

THE CAMP WELCOMES FAMILIES WITH CHILDRENAGED 12 YEARS AND OLDER. DO NOTE THAT ONLY CHILDREN AGED 12 YEARS AND OLDER CAN PARTICIPATE IN WALKING SAFARIS