MAPAZI CAMP – SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK

Mapazi Camp is a tiny walking camp situated in the remote north eastern corner of South Luangwa National Park on the banks of the Luangwa River only 5km south of the Mupamadzi River confluence. This area is untouched wilderness; there is no network of game-viewing roads, only access to the camp which is nestled under mature trees on the banks of the Luangwa River.

Mapazi provides a wonderfully unique camping experience with a few essential comforts and offers only walking safaris. The centre piece of the camp is the canvas Chitenje – the open-sided tent has been carefully assembled around the huge boughs of a Sausage Tree to create a cool bar and comfortable lounge area.

The camp offers the chance to walk in this wonderful wilderness area with Deb Tittle – one of the valley’s most experienced guides. Deb passed her guiding exams in the mid 90’s and has spent the last 22 years interpreting the nuances of the bush and enjoying Luangwa’s magic with her guests. Whilst developing her own skills (over 2,500 walks) Deb has imparted much of her knowledge to local Zambians, many of whom now enjoy successful careers as safari guides and conservationists.

LOCATION

Mapazi Camp is situated in the remote north eastern corner of South Luangwa National Park on the banks of the Luangwa River in Zambia. Daily flights are available from Lusaka to to Mfuwe Airport. You will be met at the airport and transferred into camp which takes around is 4 hours. As the camp is located quite a distance from the airport you can be collected from the morning or middle of the day arrival flights but not from the late flight.

CAMP

Mapazi has just 3 walk-in Meru style tents each with views of the river. Access to the tents is from both ends allowing a through breeze. The tents have large gauze panels for an all-round view and a shaded porch with seating area. A good night sleep is assured in the large beds with sprung mattresses and comfy pillows. Each tent has a private bathroom with flushing toilet, shower and basin with hot and cold running water. These are situated next to the tents and have their own river view.

Morning coffee and light breakfast is enjoyed on the banks of the Luangwa River as the sun rises. Brunch or early lunch is served beneath the shade of a Sausage Tree. Everyone meets at the Chitenje for tea before departing on an afternoon walk. Dinner is in the Chitenje, by the campfire or on moonlight banks of the Luangwa.

Electricity is supplied via solar power and there are plug points for charging in the rooms. A limited laundry service is included.

Mapazi offers the opportunity for all guests to immerse themselves in nature for the duration of their stay. The camp is a Wi-Fi and mobile phone free retreat.

ACTIVITIES AND WILDLIFE

South Luangwa National Park is one of the very best wildlife reserves in Africa. Maintaining the diversity and density of game in the valley depends on the combined efforts of the local community, DNPW and the tireless work of non-governmental conservation organisations.

Mapazi camp has been established in one of the most remote and hardest to protect areas of the National Park with the knowledge that the presence in the area would deter illegal activities and facilitate anti-poaching work.

In choosing to safari at Mapazi you support conservation in the park. Included in the cost of your safari is a contribution to the Luangwa Community and Conservation Fund. At the close of each season the total amount is donated by the camp to The Chimpembele Wildlife Education Trust and Conservation South Luangwa – two long-standing and expertly run local organisations that help protect this wonderful place.

Walking Safaris – all walks are accompanied by an experienced, armed escort scout from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife. First aid kits are carried on all trips (whether on foot or by vehicle) and we maintain contact with our camp by shortwave radio. The camp has a full medical first aid kit and senior staff members are qualified first aiders.

MAPAZI IS CLOSED FROM 19TH JULY THROUGH TO JUNE EVERY YEAR

THE CAMP WELCOME FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN AGED 12 YEARS AND OLDER. PLEASE NOTE THAT CHILDREN HAVE TO BE 12 YEARS OR OLDER TO PARTICIPATE IN WALKING SAFARIS