Shawa Luangwa Camp sits in a very special location on the eastern bank of the Luangwa River which has been hand-picked by Jacob Shawa, the Head Professional Guide at the camp. From this beautiful spot, you can cross the river on a pontoon or boat and explore the prime game-viewing areas of the South Luangwa?National Park. Jacob Shawa is not only a legendary Zambian guide; he is also the inspiration behind building Shawa Luangwa Camp in the first place. Jacob was brought up in the Luangwa Valley and his interest in wildlife started when he was young.
Each of the five luxury Shawa Tents welcomes the outside in with three entirely open sides and unblocked 270-degree views over the river and across the park. Each A-frame canvas tent is raised above the ground on wooden stilts, letting the breeze, sunshine, and views easily enter the rooms, whilst also reducing the impact on the local ecosystem. The luxurious en-suite bathrooms have a bathtub, shower and double vanities finished with brass and copper fittings. For a small camp there is still a wonderful offering of facilities, with an infinity pool overlooking the landscape and river, a large lounge deck area with restaurant and bar, there are also private dining options on your own tent deck.
The highlight of the camp is the Silent Safari Game Drive, where you can explore sensitive ecosystems gently via electric, solar-powered Land Cruisers, with the immense added benefit of being able to sneak up on wildlife without the intrusive noise of fuel engines. There are also a great option of walking and river safaris and birdwatching. The South Luangwa has one of the highest densities of leopard in Africa and sightings of this elusive big cat are frequent here. Along with lions and spotted hyenas, and a growing number of African?wild dogs. The Luangwa River is home to plenty of hippo and its banks are visited by plains game like bushbuck, kudu and puku. South Luangwa also hosts three regionally endemic species - Crawshay's zebra, Thornicroft’s giraffe and?Cookson’s wildebeest.