Extraordinary Africa>Zambia>South Luangwa>Kaingo Camp
Owner run, utterly magical and firmly unpretentious, Kaingo is the camp that safari-geeks dream about.
What’s Kaingo really like?
Kaingo is set in the more remote northern area of the South Luangwa, known for its excellent game viewing and prides of lion. It’s owned by Derek and Jules Shenton, who aren’t always in camp these days (their kids are at school in Lusaka) but keep a close eye on the running of camp.
The six brick and thatch chalets still have a traditionally Zambian, rustic feel, but with the comforts of king-sized beds, a small viewing deck by the river, and outdoor bathtubs. We’re often asked, so we should also mentioned the rooms have indoor showers as well. The main area of camp is airy and open, built around a towering ancient leadwood tree. Below this is a deck, looking right out over the river. Food comes from the camps organic fruit and veg garden in Mfuwe, with breakfast eaten in the early morning around the campfire, and jolly communal dining later on in the day.
What can I do at Kaingo?
One of the things we’ve always loved about the area around Kaingo is that it’s a prolific wildlife area, so game drives are a real highlight. Usually you’ll head out for 3-4 hours in the early mornings and afternoons. It’s rare for there to be more than 4 guests on a vehicle, and vehicles (and guides) are especially well-set up to cater to photographers.
Walking safaris are also a highlight of the South Luangwa. This is normally an amble, not a hike, through sandy terrain for perhaps 3-4 hours, and is a great way to really understand the smaller details of the bush up close. Kaingo has several excellent hides you can visit for a really spectacular photographic experience, and there is also the chance to sleep out at the elephant hide or in a fly camp. Both experiences are raw, wild and magical, though on a boringly practical note, please let us know in advance if you would like to do this as there is an extra cost and we need to pre-book it to make sure we get you in.
Giving back at Kaingo…
Derek isn’t just committed to the South Luangwa, he sits on the board of Conservation South Luangwa, which protects the habitat and wildlife of the South Luangwa. Likewise Jules was a founding member of Project Luangwa, committed to ensuring that local communities benefit from tourism (guests who want to get involved can also help by bringing supplies under the Pack for a Purpose Programme.)
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