Nsefu lies on a sweeping bend of the Luangwa River and is situated in the heart of the undeveloped Nsefu sector of the South Luangwa National Park - one of the most beautiful, unspoilt wilderness areas in Zambia.
Visit the Nsefu salt pans, famous for their population of crested cranes and hot springs
Nsefu camp is Luangwa's oldest camp, and retains its original rooms, all with beautiful views of the Luangwa River
Visit Nsefu in the Emerald Season, when the local stork colony is in full swing
Enjoy superb game viewing in the remote Nsefu sector of the national park, where the camp is situated
Nsefu was the first photographic safari camp in Zambia and dates back to the early fifties. It is owned and run by Robin Pope Safaris who were among the first to operate in this area. The Nsefu Sector was recognised then as a phenomenal area and it still is. The camp re-opened in 1999, in keeping with the original style, and is one of only two camps in the Nsefu Sector of the park.
The traditional structures have a simple, understated elegance, with stylish pale furnishings and spacious en-suite bathrooms. The large bar is tucked in beside a huge extinct termite mound, overlooking a waterhole, and offers fantastic game viewing opportunities. There is also a dedicated photographic hide overlooking the waterhole, providing excellent photography opportunities.
Safari activities include walking, the best way to discover the secrets of the bush, led by an experienced guide and accompanied by an armed game scout. There are day game drives conducted in open, four-wheel drive vehicles, as well as night drives which set out in the afternoon and, after watching the sun set over the river with a sun downer in hand, continue with a powerful spotlight.
Nsefu Camp is open during the height of the Emerald Season from mid January until the end of March, when the river is brimming and the lagoons are full. During this time its possible to boat to Nkwali from Nsefu - a two hour boat ride down the amazing Luangwa River. The journey is always exciting, with flocks of birds, hippos and crocodiles. Often elephant, lion and even leopard are seen on the river bank. With the river high, its easy to boat into the ebony groves, up the channels and into many of the lagoons. These lagoons are a haven for birdlife. The famous yellow billed stork colony, one of the largest in southern Africa, is reachable (by boat and then foot) and it is during this time, with the area flooded that the storks will be breeding.
When to visit
Sit on your balcony and watch the game come in to drink in front of camp.
Speak to an Expert on Zambia
Our team of travel specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure.
Enquire NowNsefu sits on a sweeping bend of the Luangwa river and in the heart of the South Luangwa National Park.
10-hour international flight from London to Lusaka followed by a flight of 1-hour in a light aircraft to Mfuwe Airport. It is then 30 - 40 minutes by road to the camp.
Zambia Walking Safari
Step into the wild on this journey across the wildernesses of Zambia’s Luangwa Valley, where leopard stalk the night and a true adventure awaits. Expert guides lead you away from the ordinary to hidden corners of this remote Eden rarely seen by tourists; fall in love with the African bush in a new way in the area that pioneered the walking safari. Reconnect with nature as you fall asleep listening to the call of distant lions after a day exploring the sweeping Luangwa plains and rivers.
Game Drives in the South Luangwa
Game drives are the most common way of exploring the African bush. A vehicle allows you to cover distance quickly and comfortably and offers visitors the best opportunity of getting very close to wildlife in a safe and controlled way.
Night Drives
If you get the opportunity to head out after sunset you should take it. The bush transforms under the cover of darkness as the nocturnal wildlife gets going. Using a spotlight your guide will scan the bush for eye-shine picking out some great action.
