Description
Chinzombo - so named after the chinzombo fruit - is the brand-new and ground-breaking member of the Norman Carr Safaris portfolio - originally a simple, rustic camp on the banks of the Luangwa, this new lodge promises to be innovative and luxurious, perfect for those wishing for luxury in the bush. Just six villas are planned, each vast and airy, and cleverly designed to blend in with the surroundings while pushing the boundaries of accommodation in Zambia. Each villa will have a separate living area, a private plunge pool and a cooled sleeping area, along with an enormous bathroom and a sweeping deck.
Norman Carr, the founder of Norman Carr Safaris, originally used the Chinzombo site as a base during the Emerald Season, and the area is full of history and memories. The site is peaceful and secluded, on a large and pristine area of land almost entirely cut off by the meandering Luangwa River, meaning that Chinzombo, despite being open all year round, is practically an island.
A member of Scott Dunn's Africa team has just returned from a brief sojourn to Zambia; and is delighted to report that ground has been broken! We will regularly update this page with stories of the construction of this brand new, luxurious and ecologically-minded lodge!
Chinzombo is due to open in June 2013.
Accommodation
The camp features six spacious villas hidden away in the canopies of ancient trees on a wildlife rich ridge. One villa is designed to accommodate a family of five. The villas appear to be floating over the landscape with their raised position. The villas are connected to the main communal areas via a winding footpath through the tress. The villas each have a private plunge pool and a luxurious bathroom.
Facilities
During your time spent at the camp in between safaris, you can enjoy the wifi access, the exercise and yoga area, the spa facilities and you refreshing plunge pools. There are plenty of shady decks overlooking the Luangwe for you to relax on and soak in the views.
Activities
Chinzombo camp is set within 60 acres of private land with Luangwa River frontage; the views from its riverside location which is bustling with wildlife, plus the private, direct access into one of the most game rich areas of the National Park all combine to make this a truly special place. Daily safaris will mean you can get up close to the animals and take in the bush life.
When to travel
Zambia has a moderate to sub-tropical climate with three distinct seasons: from November to March is the Emerald, or the rainy season, April to July is Zambia's winter, when the weather is cool and dry, and August to October is summer, when the weather is hot and dry. In terms of game-viewing, the dryer months, meaning a higher concentration of game at the permanent water sources, are a superb time to visit. Alternatively come for some superb bird-watching at the end of the rains.
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Location and directions
Luangwa Valley, Zambia
Chinzombo Safari Lodge is nestled in amongst a grove of ebony and mahogany trees on the banks of the Luangwa River.
How to get there
10-hour international flight to Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Lusaka. After a 70-minute flight from Lusaka, you arrive at Mfuwe Airport where you are met for a game drive transfer to camp, through South Luangwa National Park which takes approximately three hours.
