Home on the Range . . .

Our vacation had us staying two days in each of 9 different places: one game lodge and 8 bush camps. We first visited the Mfuwe Lodge located just inside the South Luangwa National Park gate in the most highly visited central section of the Park. We then travelled to the southern section of the Park and stayed in each of 4 of the 6 camps owned and operated by The Bushcamp Company (they also own the lodge): Chamilandu, Chindeni, Kapamba, and Bilimungwe. In the second part of the trip we visited 4 of the 5 camps operated by Norman Carr Bushcamps (recently acquired by the international Time and Tide resorts group): Lewi, Nsolo, Kakuli, and Mchenja.

The Bushcamp Company camps were noticeably more upscale that the Norman Carr ones, the latter of which had a more “authentic” bush camp feel. All, however had hot (solar heating) and cold running potable water, at least 2 showers (inside and outside), and flush toilets. They all had solar-powered electrical lighting. Once inside the chalet or hut for the night, after dinner at the communal area, one was not allowed out (unless there was an emergency and you called for help with a whistle or air horn!) None of the camps have mobile phone or internet service.

Both companies, but especially The Bushcamp Company, contribute significantly to the local communities through providing large numbers of stable jobs, supporting local and international conservation groups, supporting schools (The Bushcamp Company built and operates one school entirely) and orphanages, providing potable water supplies (The Bushcamp Company has drilled over 90 boreholes (wells). Additionally, The Bushcamp Company pays for all the financial needs (uniform, supplies, lunches, etc.) for one child of every employee.

The meals served at the camps are quite remarkable, especially considering their location and resources. Often, meals are served out in the bush with one memorable lunch comprised of freshly baked pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven.

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