Unveiling Zambia’s Luxury: Top Safari Camps
One of the most amazing places we've ever been, and a true highlight of our travels, is Zambia. Unspoiled and still undiscovered by mass tourism, Zambia offers an incredible safari experience with arguably the best guiding compared to its more well-known safari destinations. While its game reserves are among the greatest wildlife sanctuaries on Earth, Zambia's very lack of crowds means they can be a bit more challenging to reach for independent travelers.
This translates to a more authentic experience, with pristine wilderness waiting to be explored.
An Authentic African Safari Experience
While Zambia may not be the most obvious choice for a safari trip, it should definitely be on your radar!
Safaris can be physically demanding, and that's why Time + Tide luxury camps are the perfect way to experience the wonders of Zambia's wildlife while still enjoying the comforts of modern luxury. Their meticulously designed camps allow guests to stay in complete comfort, while remaining close to the surrounding nature and its incredible animal inhabitants.
We had the privilege of staying at TIME+TIDE CHINZOMBO in South Luangwa, TIME+TIDE KING LEWANIKA in Liuwa Plain, and TIME+TIDE CHONGWE HOUSE in Lower Zambezi.
TIME + TIDE CHINZOMBO
SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK
Located on the banks of the legendary Luangwa River, you will find Time + Tide Chinzombo one of Zambia’s most luxurious safari lodges. It offers six beautifully designed villas that blend a modern aesthetic with the charm of a traditional bush camp, creating a truly unique ambiance. Each airy villa features natural materials such as timber, leather, and raw linens, accented with vintage touches. Step out onto your private veranda to cool off in your plunge pool or soak in the bathtub, all while enjoying panoramic views of the river and the wildlife that frequents its banks.
A winding path connects the villas with an elegant lounge and dining area, shaded by the msikizi trees. Here, you can savor delicious meals prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Sip on cocktails at the bar while browsing through old books and photos of the legendary Norman Carr, or share cultural stories with the friendly staff around a fire pit suspended atop the riverbank.
For the best game viewing in the country, a boat ride across the river awaits. A top-rated guide and scout will then take you on unforgettable explorations in a safari Land Rover Defender, venturing deep inside South Luangwa National Park, one of the most game-rich areas in Africa.
If you're looking for a luxurious South Luangwa experience that combines elegance with a deep connection to nature, all while enjoying attentive service, then Time + Tide Chinzombo is your best choice.
Beyond the ultra-luxurious Chinzombo, Time + Tide also manages several remote lodges nestled deep within the park, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. No matter which location you choose, you're sure to enjoy exceptional guiding, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and an authentic bushcamp experience.
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TIME + TIDE KING LEWANIKA
LIUWA PLAIN NATIONAL PARK
Another upscale project of Time + Tide, is King Lewanika, beautifully situated in one of the remotest parts of Zambia. Located within Liuwa Plain National Park on the banks of the Munde stream, King Lewanika holds the distinction of being the only lodge on the plains, making it one of Zambia’s most exclusive safari experiences.
Powered entirely by solar energy, the lodge features six elegant villas (including a two-bedroom option perfect for families). Each villa sits on a raised wooden platform, maximizing the breathtaking views of the Liuwa plains stretching out before you. The design incorporates canvas walls and natural materials, creating a classic safari aesthetic with a modern touch. The open and airy feel is enhanced by comfortable lounges, spacious bathrooms with both indoor and outdoor showers, and wide terraces where you can marvel at the picturesque setting.
The lodge’s lounge and dining area are designed to put the focus squarely on the spectacular landscape and its abundant wildlife. The cuisine is outstanding and complemented by world-class service. As night falls, a crackling fire pit beckons guests to share stories about their adventures or simply relax under a blanket of stars, listening to local legends shared by the friendly staff.
Activities at King Lewanika include game drives, night drives, and guided nature walks. A truly unique experience is the chance to sleep out under a dome of stars, with breathtaking, unimpeded views of the Milky Way stretching from horizon to horizon.
The lodge's expert guides go beyond sharing their extensive knowledge of the area's wildlife and ecology; they bring a personal touch to your experience, making you feel like long-time friends.
Time + Tide King Lewanika is the perfect choice for discerning travelers seeking a remote and exclusive Zambia safari experience.
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TIME + TIDE CHONGWE HOUSE
LOWER ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK
Time + Tide Chongwe House offers an unparalleled opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Lower Zambezi National Park. This private four-bedroom house is designed to seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape, placing you right at the heart of the African bush.
Accessible by air or boat, the journey to Chongwe House becomes an exhilarating adventure in itself. Nestled on a forested riverbank overlooking the mighty Chongwe River, with a dramatic mountainous backdrop, the architectural design embodies a spirit of adventure. Open living spaces blend the indoors with the outdoors, while unique features like ceilings studded with river pebbles and branches protruding from the walls further blur the lines between luxury and nature.
This stunning two-story house with four-bedroom and four bathrooms, comfortably accommodates up to eight guests. It features furniture carved from a fallen winterthorn tree, plus private open-air bathtubs, rain and waterfall showers, a large pool, and spacious indoor and outdoor lounges, allowing guests to comfortably immerse themselves in the wilderness experience. Throughout your stay, a dedicated team of staff and guides will cater to your every need, ensuring the highest level of service.
The surrounding area is famous for kudus, gazelles, warthogs, baboons, hippos, and large elephants who frequently wander through the property in search of seed pods from towering winterthorn trees or fresh grass. If you sit long enough in the outdoor lounge, all Africa will come to you.
As far as private safari houses go, Time + Tide Chongwe House is perfect for adventurous families and private groups seeking an unforgettable Zambia safari experience, Chongwe House promises memories that will last a lifetime.
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Supporting Conservation on Your Zambia Safari
Your Stay Benefits Wildlife and Communities
A portion of your stay at Time + Tide camps directly supports the Time + Tide Foundation.
The Time + Tide Foundation goes beyond conservation. They support a range of local initiatives, including education, healthcare, and economic development, empowering communities that live alongside protected areas. Their collaborative approach ensures they understand the modern challenges faced by these communities, fostering a more sustainable future for both wildlife and people.
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