Mwaleshi Camp is a small, rustic camp open during Zambia’s dry season. Run by Remote Africa, guiding is exceptional at this family-run accommodation, which is known to be one of Africa’s best walking camps. Set on the banks of the Mwaleshi River, the camp offers an excellent opportunity to slow down the pace and be at one with nature.
Location
The camp sits beside the crystalline Mwaleshi River, just 10km from where it joins the Luangwa River. This remote part of North Luangwa National Park is a peaceful wilderness area and wildlife here is abundant with good populations of lion, buffalo and Cookson’s wildebeest which are rare in other sections of the park. Bordered by Luangwa River and the Muchinga escarpment, the park stretches for 4,600 square kilometres compromising savannah grasslands, riverine forest and mopane woodland, The camp also lies very close to where black rhino have been reintroduced.
Rooms
Four chalets face the river, all furnished in a simple yet comfortable manner. There are twin or double beds with stone headboards draped in walk-in mosquito nets and bedside tables equipped with a water flask and mosquito spray. Canvas directors’ chairs are placed by the window for river viewing, and the open air en-suites are shaded by trees with sand and rattan mats underfoot.
Communal Areas
The open-sided main area is simple and sits on the riverbank, compromising a wooden bar and plenty of armchairs and sofas decorated in local fabrics. The space leads to a fire pit by the edge of the river where sun loungers await by the shallow waters.
Activities
As Mwaleshi doesn’t offer game drives, activities focus mainly on walking safari’s which are relaxed and last around three to four hours. Terrain in the park is fairly flat and easy-going and mid-morning refreshments are enjoyed out in the bush. Mwaleshi shares its guides with sister camp, Tafika and as is standard for all Remote Africa properties, guiding is superb.
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, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
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, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
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, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
WET SEASON – ‘EMERALD SEASON’
Temperatures are pleasant, and the rains are beginning to ease.
Like the rest of Zambia, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
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, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
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, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
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, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
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, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
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, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
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, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
WET SEASON
The first rains arrive, usually in the form of sharp afternoon showers. The temperatures still however remain very hot, while the humidity adds level of discomfort.
Like the rest of Zambia, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
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, North 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 watercourse 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.
Please note that safaris are not conducted in North Luangwa during the wet season, the logistics during this time just make such operations not viable. Many lodges in South Luangwa do however remain open.
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