® SD-Best Price Guaranteed-white BE ST PR IC E GU AR A NTEED
Home Inspiration Norman Carr Safaris

Norman Carr Safaris

Norman Carr Safaris are not just another safari operator or group of camps – their history traces right back to the creation of the South Luangwa. Back in 1950, Norman Carr pioneered the idea of photographic tourism as an alternative to the hunting safari, and worked alongside local communities to promote conservation of the wildlife here.

From those early days, the South Luangwa has blossomed into one of the most sought after safari destinations in Southern Africa, famed for its walking safaris which were pioneered by Carr. Today there are six camps in the Norman Carr portfolio: Kapani and Chinzombo in the Mfuwe area, and further out into the park, the remote bushcamps of Luwi, Nsolo, Mchenja and Kakuli. With an emphasis on superb guiding, wild and beautiful locations, unique accommodation crafted from local materials, delicious food and warm service, these are some of our very favorite camps in Zambia. Whether you choose to stay in just one camp and base your explorations from there, or spend ten days hopping around from bushcamp to bushcamp, we can assure you of an incredible experience.

Less More

Chinzombo

Dubbed “wildly luxurious”, this is the newest member of the Norman Carr family and the site of Carr’s original camp back in the 1950s. Pioneering in every way, Chinzombo is wonderfully luxurious but somehow blends into the natural environment. Seven chalets constructed from the latest eco-friendly materials are built around enormous trees, and are designed to drink in the river panoramas, whether from your cooled sleeping area or the sunken outdoor lounge. Each has a private pool on the deck, a blessing during the hot season and the finishing touch to this indulgent safari camp.

Kakuli Bush Camp

This tiny traditional tented camp is named after Norman Carr’s nickname, meaning “old buffalo bull”. Four tents, constructed with a mix of canvas, local woods and reeds all overlook the Luangwa River. Unlike the other bush camps, Kakuli is open in the green season, offering a unique chance to explore this remote area of the park with no-one else around. A thatched central area with large deck is the focal point of the camp, and the perfect place to watch for wildlife along the river banks.

Kapani

This charming lodge sits on the banks of an ox-bow lagoon in the Luangwa River, a magnet for wildlife which you can watch from the viewing deck. Named after the mopane trees which are dotted around, there are eight chalets with high thatch roofs and a spacious lagoon house which is ideal for families. A swimming pool provides welcome relief during the heat of the day between safari activities. Children are well catered for here, with activities to suit younger safari-goers and adapted menus and meal times, too.

Luwi Bush Camp

The most remote of the Norman Carr bushcamps, Luwi overlooks a lagoon filled with hippos and crocodiles, with a nearby hide for up-close viewing. Wildlife travels from far and wide to this lagoon, making it a superb spot for your safari. There are just four chalets here, built under the shade of vast mahogany trees. Each is rustic in style, built from reed and thatch, and entirely open at the front and back to allow a breeze to float through your room.

Nsolo Bush Camp

Four spacious round chalets sit on raised platforms overlooking the Luwi river at Nsolo Camp, in an area famed for its lion populations. The dry riverbed near camp is used for romantic dinners by lantern light, and is the focus for some superb walking safaris from camp. The camp is named after the honey guide, a sweet-toothed bird which local people use to find bee hives and shares in the spoils as a thank-you for its navigation.

Mchenja Bush Camp

The most luxurious of the four rustic bushcamps, Mchenja overlooks a wide bend in the Luangwa River. The five octagonal tents each has a deck where you can dine by candlelight and an open air ensuite bathroom overlooking the river with Victorian style bathtubs. This romantic camp is named after the ebony trees found in this area, and the main lounge is built around a fallen tree and overlooks the small pool.

Vacation Ideas

We’ve found 4 holiday ideas for you

Filter
What would you like to do?
When are you free?
WHAT: Anything
WHERE: Anywhere
WHEN: Anytime
SORT BY
There are no vacations

Luxury safari & beach vacations

The best of both worlds

Follow in Fiona Bruce's footsteps

Educational family holidays

Where the world becomes their classroom

Call us on 858 345 1761 to start planning your safari