Set under a canopy of ancient trees, Chinzombo is a true taste of tranquillity and privacy just a short boat ride from South Luangwa National Park. Founded in the 1950’s by Norman Carr as the first photographic safari camp in the area, Chinzombo is now an incredibly luxurious and stylish property with a breezy, modern atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking top-end design and exclusive park access.
Awarded: Silver
Location
The lodge sits on a curve of the Luangwa River overlooking the South Luangwa National Park, which lies across the water. Thought to be the corridor for the migration of early humans across Africa, this broad valley of the park holds a magical atmosphere and is a popular, much-returned to spot for game drives. The river attracts plenty of wildlife and the lodge itself is set within 60 acres of private land although much of the activity is across the water.
Rooms
Six spacious and highly contemporary villas offer comfortable twin or king-sized beds equipped with their own air conditioning units to gently cool the large, open rooms. Floor-to-ceiling panels running along the front of the space give a light, airy atmosphere and can be rolled up to reveal a large private deck and plunge pool. The outdoor space also has a sunken lounge area sheltered by vegetation for added privacy. The en suites are open-plan and huge with twin washbasins and free-standing bathtubs big enough for two.
Communal Areas
The main area offers another contemporary and stylish space with shaded white decking built to fit around the existing trees. A dining area sits at one end and a lounge area facing the river sits at the other with curved sofas and enormous beanbags to relish the view from. A well-stocked bar and library are located just behind the main space and there’s even a ‘loo with a view’ overlooking the winding river. To exchange stories and gaze at the stars, the fire pit is a welcome area and also where breakfast is usually served and cooked over the fire.
Activities
Guests can take the short river journey across to the South Luangwa National Park in the lodge’s own boat where game-viewing vehicles await. Drives take place in the game-rich Mfuwe part of the park and guests have private access for both drives and guided walks, avoiding the crowds at the main entrance. The camp put much emphasis on community conservation and guests can visit a number of projects such as the Kapani School Project and the Field Education Centre. The lodge also offers spa treatments in the comfort of your own villa and a complimentary 30-minute foot massage is included for all guests.
Fully inclusive
When to go
Find out when is best to visit
- Excellent
- Good
- Poor
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
April can be a real gem of a month to visit, if you are not necessarily looking for that classic safari – the best month of the emerald season. Temperatures are pleasant, and the rains are beginning to ease.
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
May is the beginning of the dry season, although the landscape will still be many shades of green following the rains. Midday temperatures are average around 28°C/82°F, the mornings can however be surprisingly cool at around 10°C/49°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
The landscape continues to dry up, with good game sightings becoming more likely. Midday temperatures are average around 28°C/82°F, the mornings can however be surprisingly cool at around 11°C/52°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
The landscape continues to dry up, with good game sightings becoming more likely. Midday temperatures are average around 28°C/82°F, the mornings can however be surprisingly cool at around 11°C/52°F, so be sure to pack a warm fleece.
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. Midday and night temperatures are a little warmer during these months, averaging 33°C/91°F and 18°C/64°F respectfully.
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Clear skies still dominate, the landscape has now become quite parched; ultimately making this the perfect time for game viewing. Midday and night temperatures are a little warmer during these months, averaging 33°C/91°F and 18°C/64°F respectfully.
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
DRY SEASON
Game viewing can be spectacular during October; however, temperatures continue to rise before the start of the rains, with midday temperatures over 40°C/104°F not uncommon. We suggest early morning starts during this time to make the most of the cool temperatures!
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON
The first rains arrive, usually in the form of sharp afternoon showers. The temperatures remain very hot, whilst the humidity adds a level of discomfort. Game viewing can still be great, but just be prepared for a little heat.
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
WET SEASON
Wettest time of the year, with rain falling most days of the month, although rarely prolonged in nature. Temperatures are a very pleasant, averaging 31°C/89°F midday, while the nights average 20°C/68°F. During this period the park transforms into a lush green landscape, a stark contrast to the dry season.
Like the rest of Zambia, South Luangwa has very distinct wet and dry seasons; rain is common, usually in the form of sharp thunderstorms from November through to early May, the rest of the year clear skies dominate. We would generally recommend visiting South Luangwa during the peak of the dry season; as the landscape dries up wildlife becomes more concentrated around the rivers and watercourses while at the same time thinner/ drier vegetation improves visibility. Having said this, there is a lot to be said for the ‘emerald season’; beautiful green scenery, fantastic birding, large flowing rivers and fewer tourists can make for a wonderful and unique experience.
Explore South Luangwa National Park Properties
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Kakuli Bush Camp
Kakuli Bush Camp
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Lion Camp
Lion Camp
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Luwi Bush Camp
Luwi Bush Camp
With no other camps for miles around, Luwi Bush Camp is a remote and rustic accommodation with a light eco-footprint and an authentically wild atmosphere. This no-frills ..
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Mchenja Bush Camp
Mchenja Bush Camp
Set within an ebony grove with wide views of the Luangwa River, Mchenja Bush Camp boasts one of the best settings of any Time + Tide property. A small but smart camp away ..
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Nsolo Bush Camp
Nsolo Bush Camp
Enjoying a secluded setting beside the Luwi sand river, Nsolo Camp is one of Zambia’s more historic camps set up by Norman Carr in the 1980’s. It has moved slightly ..
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Tafika Camp
Tafika Camp
Tafika Camp is Remote Africa Safari’s main property and a family home to its founders, John and Carol Coppinger. Although possessing a rustic atmosphere, Tafika is far ..
What People Say
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The personalised service provided was far beyond my expectations. A three week trip visiting four countries in Africa, multiple game reserves, wineries and much, much more was flawless. While a close encounter with a leopard and her cubs…
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We got in touch after hearing about Hide & Seek from a friend. Have to say hats off to Jamie, he was so patient throughout, even through our indecisiveness! Ultimately we ended up with the most incredible holiday of our lives. Thank you again, we will be back!!
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Thank you for arranging our Safari holiday in Kenya and Tanzania for us. It was to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary which was on July 1st. 2018, and through your arrangements, we have had a holiday that we will never forget...
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Thanks so much for a truly unforgettable once in a life time holiday. Hopefully we will be in touch again soon!
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Spot on in terms of itinerary . We not disappointed by any of the suggestions and had the best holiday ever! Thank you!
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Jamie was very helpful throughout the booking process and recommended the perfect holiday. There was nothing we would change having now been out to Tanzania. I would highly recommend Hide & Seek to friends and relatives.
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Jamie was excellent. Once I described what we wanted I knew he would come up with the business. ..and he did!!! 5 stars
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We spoke to numerous travel agents over the period we looked at booking our honeymoon and only hide and seek gave me the confidence I was looking for. Really pleased with our decision.
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Hide and seek dealt with our last minute travel plans extremely well. Obviously, our accommodations shifted as availability diminished but ultimately they came up with a vacation that we will never forget.
