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Nkonzi Bush Camp is a unique, intimate, owner run bush camp set deep in the heart of the South Luangwa National Park.
Known for its stunning scenery and rich wildlife, the camp offers guests a true immersion in nature while emphasising sustainable tourism practices. Renowned for its small and friendly atmosphere, Nkonzi Camp ensures that every guest receives personalised attention.
The five walk-in safari tents seamlessly combine old-world charm with modern comfort. Exceptional safari guiding and first class hospitality are at the heart of Gavin Opie Safaris.
Gavin Opie, founder and owner of Nkonzi Camp has over 18 years' experience guiding in South Luangwa. Gavin holds both of the Luangwa's prestigious guiding qualifications and is passionate about sharing his love of the valley's wildlife, ecosystems and culture. He is on site throughout the season and along with one other full time guide, leads all walking safaris and game drives for guests.
Transfer time from Mfuwe Airport to Nkonzi Camp is around 2 hours, 45 minutes to the park entrance and the remainder through some of the most spectacular areas of the national park itself.
Authentic walk-in safari tents, each offer an open air en-suite bathroom with flush toilets and bucket showers, wooden framed beds and white cotton linen, solar powered electric charging points and a central light.
In addition, each tent has an outside lounge area with sun beds and sofas for relaxation.
Offering single, twin or kingsize on request.
Authentic walk-in safari tents, each offer an open air en-suite bathroom with flush toilets and bucket showers, wooden framed beds and white cotton linen, solar powered electric charging points and a central light.
In addition, each tent has an outside lounge area with sun beds and sofas for relaxation.
Offering single, twin or kingsize on request.
Authentic walk-in safari tents, each offer an open air en-suite bathroom with flush toilets and bucket showers, wooden framed beds and white cotton linen, solar powered electric charging points and a central light.
In addition, each tent has an outside lounge area with sun beds and sofas for relaxation.
Offering single, twin or kingsize on request.
Authentic walk-in safari tents, each offer an open air en-suite bathroom with flush toilets and bucket showers, wooden framed beds and white cotton linen, solar powered electric charging points and a central light.
In addition, each tent has an outside lounge area with sun beds and sofas for relaxation.
Offering single, twin or kingsize on request.
Authentic walk-in safari tents, each offer an open air en-suite bathroom with flush toilets and bucket showers, wooden framed beds and white cotton linen, solar powered electric charging points and a central light.
In addition, each tent has an outside lounge area with sun beds and sofas for relaxation.
Offering single, twin or kingsize on request.
Property Facilities
Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Guided Tours, Laundry Service, Library, Smoking Section, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Bath Towels, Bed Linen, Drinking Water Filtration System, En Suite Bathroom, Ensuite, External Shower, Fan, Hand Towels, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Twin Bed, Verandah, Wardrobe
Available Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Private Vehicle (Available)
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing Hide, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Natural History Tours, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Gavin Opie, who leads most of the walking safaris from Nkonzi Camp, describes a walking safari -
"Being on a walking safari removes any barriers between you and the environment. On a drive, those barriers may be minimal, but you are still one step removed from what is going on around you. When walking, you are better able to take it all in. you feel the earth and smell the air. Not only are you able to observe many aspects of the bush that you miss, when on drive, but you also experience a greater connection – a deeper appreciation of where you are and the significance of the environment you are in. There is no greater thrill than approaching lions from downwind or observing elephants walking past you on their way to water. It can’t be described, you have to experience it!"
Nkonzi Camp features two hides designed for immersive wildlife viewing. The first hide is strategically located next to a permanent water source, easily accessible by vehicle or on foot during a walking safari. This prime location has yielded incredible wildlife sightings over the years, including lions, elephants, wild dogs, and an abundance of birdlife. It’s a fantastic spot for avid photographers and nature enthusiasts alike to observe these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.
The second hide is conveniently situated within the camp itself, providing guests the freedom to visit at their leisure. This hide offers a tranquil space to watch the local birdlife while enjoying the sounds of nature.
Additionally, directly opposite the camp lies a well-frequented waterhole, where a wide variety of wildlife often gather. From the comfort of your safari tent, you can catch glimpses of animals coming to quench their thirst. This unique setting allows for some prime game viewing right outside your door.
Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or new to safaris, these experiences promise to enhance your stay and create lasting memories.
Departing camp at 6:00 AM, we set off in our open game viewers for an exhilarating full-day drive through the stunning landscapes of South Luangwa National Park. With ample time on our side, we’ll enjoy a scenic morning tea break and a leisurely lunch amidst nature, allowing you to relax in the heat of the day and absorb your surroundings.
The full-day safari gives us the opportunity to venture further into the park, exploring its incredibly diverse habitats. This significantly increases your chances of witnessing extraordinary wildlife sightings, including some of the park’s iconic animals in their natural behaviour.
As the day winds down, we aim to return to camp in time to bask in the breathtaking sunset unfolding before Nkonzi Camp, providing a perfect end to a day of adventure. Following the stunning views, you’ll be treated to an early dinner prepared with fresh, local ingredients, allowing you to reflect on the day’s experiences with fellow guests.
This unforgettable day is sure to be one of the highlights of your stay at Nkonzi Camp and is guaranteed for those booking a stay of four nights or more. Join us for an adventure that promises both excitement and unforgettable memories.
Start your day with an unforgettable morning game drive, departing from camp at 6:00 AM after enjoying a light breakfast set against the stunning backdrop of the dry riverbed in front of Nkonzi Camp. Our carefully designed open game viewers allow guests an unobstructed view of the spectacular birds, lush trees, and diverse wildlife that inhabit the surrounding area.
During the drive, we pause midway for a refreshing morning tea break in the shade. This is the perfect opportunity for guests to stretch their legs and indulge in a delicious homemade muffin or cookie while soaking in the natural beauty around them.
Morning game drives typically return to camp between 10:30 and 11:00 AM, providing you with ample time to relax, unwind, or enjoy a rejuvenating shower before gathering for lunch at midday.
Our afternoon safari begins with a departure from camp between 3:30 and 4:00 PM, depending on the season. After enjoying afternoon tea in camp, we set off. . As the sun begins to dip on the horizon, we'll take a leisurely pause for sundowners, giving you the chance to soak in the breathtaking beauty of an iconic African sunset.
Once the sun has fully set, we shift gears and continue our adventure under the stars. Equipped with powerful spotlights, we embark on a thrilling search for nocturnal animals as they come to life in the cooler evening air. This unique experience allows you to witness the park from a different perspective, unveiling the secrets of the night.
We aim to return to camp around 7:30 PM, allowing you just enough time to relax and share stories of the day’s adventures before gathering for dinner at 8:00 PM.
