A wildly luxurious tented camp, Chinzombo is Norman Carr Safaris’ new flagship safari camp set on the Luangwa River adjoining Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park. In prime game-viewing country and easily accessible all year round, Chinzombo brings eco-friendly luxury, style and privacy to a new level with private plunge pools, wifi and spa amenities, without sacrificing that closeness to nature that is Norman Carr’s trademark. Hippos and elephants stroll through camp and there’s a wealth of wildlife on the river bank to view from your tented suite, then cross the river by boat for extensive game drives in the National Park.
Renowned safari lodge architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens designed Chinzombo to blend natural environment and local Zambian building methods with seamless luxury and organic contemporary chic.
The six gorgeous tented villas are incredibly spacious with so many thoughtful touches to ensure guests comfort. Localised eco-friendly air-conditioning cools the area within the four poster bed draped with mosquito netting for restful afternoon siestas, a small fridge chills a bottle of wine or two, there’s a hairdryer and a wide selection of tempting loungers and chairs to relax upon, as well as the plunge pool to cool off in, all those small comforts that are so much appreciated after time spent on safari in the more remote bush camps. A family tent with two ensuite rooms on the same deck accommodates a family of five.
The main lodge is equally elegant with a swimming pool and fire-pit right on the river bank and shady ancient trees, but it is the excellent service and friendliness that stands out, and delicious food, from buffets of fresh salads at lunch to delicious dinners with a choice of dishes. Norman Carr’s most experienced guides seek out the best game-viewing in an area known for its prolific sightings, with leopard and lions, wild dogs and a host of varied plains game to be discovered in the rich Luangwa valley.
With all its sophistication and elegance, Chinzombo retains its authentic safari ambience, albeit with so much luxury that, if not for the roars of lions and grunts of hippos, guests might forget that they really are in wildest Africa.
