Overview

Time + Tide Mchenja Camp is a luxury safari lodge positioned within South Luangwa National Park, one of Zambia's premier wildlife destinations. The camp operates as a seasonal property (May 20–November 15), aligning with the dry season when wildlife concentrates around water sources and visibility for game viewing peaks. Known for: intimate big cat encounters, particularly leopard tracking through riverine habitat; nocturnal wildlife safaris revealing owls, genets, and other night-active species; and seasonal carmine bee-eater viewing, which attracts birdwatchers during optimal breeding months. Best for: couples and small groups seeking personalized wildlife experiences; photographers targeting big cats and nocturnal fauna; travelers interested in guided bush walking safaris; and families with older children (accommodated in the 2-bedroom family suite).

Accommodation & Rooms

The camp comprises 5 units: 4 standard safari rooms and 1 family safari room with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Each safari room is equipped with solar power and Wi-Fi connectivity, essential amenities for connectivity-conscious travelers. The family suite provides separate sleeping areas, making it suitable for parents with children or traveling companions preferring privacy. All rooms feature en-suite bathrooms and are designed to blend into the natural landscape while providing modern comfort. Specific square meterage and detailed bed configurations are not disclosed in available materials, though the accommodation philosophy emphasizes intimate, low-impact design consistent with Time + Tide's conservation-focused brand positioning.

Dining & Cuisine

All meals are included in the nightly rate, with dining featuring seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients typical of Zambian safari cuisine. The camp's main dining area serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with meal timing coordinated around game drive schedules. Standard beverages including soft drinks, house wine, beer, and spirits are complimentary; premium and reserve wines, champagnes, and spirits incur additional charges. The camp does not specify specialized dietary accommodations in available literature, though Time + Tide's broader portfolio indicates flexibility for vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-related requests with advance notice.

Wildlife & Activities

South Luangwa National Park is renowned for large predator populations, particularly leopards, lions, and wild dogs. The park supports all Big Five species (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, rhino), though rhino sightings are rare. Mchenja Camp's positioning near riverine habitat creates exceptional opportunities for tracking big cats during daylight hours. Activities include: twice-daily game drives (morning and afternoon sessions) led by experienced guides; guided bush walking safaris allowing close-range wildlife observation and botanical education; night drives using spotlight technology to reveal nocturnal species including aardvark, porcupine, serval, and spotted hyena; and cultural visits to local Zambian communities, providing context for human-wildlife coexistence in the region. The camp's seasonal operation (May–November) ensures wildlife concentration, with peak predator activity during the cooler dry months when water sources are limited and game concentrates predictably.

Location & How to Get There

Time + Tide Mchenja Camp is located within South Luangwa National Park's northern sector, accessed via a 2.5-hour game drive transfer from Mfuwe Airport (the regional hub serving the park). Mfuwe Airport is the primary international gateway; charter flights from major Zambian hubs (Lusaka, Livingstone) connect to Mfuwe with approximately 1.5–2-hour flight times. The camp does not accommodate transfers from Jeki Airport. Ground access involves navigating unpaved park roads typical of remote safari destinations, requiring 4x4 vehicles. For international travelers, Lusaka's Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport serves as the primary entry point, with onward connections to Mfuwe via scheduled or charter operators. The camp's fly-in positioning minimizes road travel and maximizes time in the field.

Best Time to Visit

The camp's May 20–November 15 season aligns with Zambia's dry season, when wildlife viewing is optimal. May–July represents the coolest months with excellent predator sightings and minimal rainfall. August–October brings warmer temperatures and increased birdwatching opportunities, including the arrival of carmine bee-eaters (recognized as one of the park's signature species). November marks the transition to the wet season, with lush vegetation and fewer tourists, though some wildlife dispersal to remote areas. The May–July window is considered peak for big cat encounters and overall wildlife concentration.

Conservation & Community

Time + Tide Mchenja operates under the Time + Tide Africa conservation brand, which integrates wildlife preservation with community benefit initiatives. The camp's seasonal operation reduces environmental impact, allowing vegetation recovery during the wet season. Solar power and Wi-Fi connectivity reflect sustainability infrastructure reducing diesel generator dependency. Time + Tide's broader conservation model emphasizes local employment, skills development, and revenue-sharing with adjacent communities, supporting education and health initiatives. The company's portfolio includes partnerships with conservation organizations working on predator-human coexistence in South Luangwa, though specific certifications (e.g., LEED, African Eco-Rating) are not documented in available materials.

Safari Assistant

Find Your Perfect Safari

Safari Assistant

Find Your Perfect Safari