Reached by a short flight from the Luangwa, Mutinondo Wilderness is a private 100km2 reserve that we're delighted to feature here. Near the edge of the Luangwa escarpment, this pristine area protects verdant woodlands and wetland areas sprinkled with granite whalebacks (large smooth hills), crystal-clear rivers and stunning waterfalls.
Mutinondo's flora is stunning, including many orchids, natural cycads and, during the emerald season, some of the world's largest mushrooms (85cm diameter is the record here so far). The wildlife here is good too, with a good variety of antelope, and recently lion and leopard have also been sighted. You can explore with a guide on foot, horseback and even by canoe.
Mutinondo Wilderness Lodge stands on a stunning hill. Its four rustic chalets were a labour of love, built almost entirely from local materials by local craftsmen. They're large and have private showers and toilets, but are not highly polished. Expect rough-hewn stone in this wild and lovely patch of Africa.
Mutinondo Wilderness is probably best visited in combination with the lodges in Kasanka National Park, Wasa Lodge and Luwombwa Lodge, with Shoebill Island Camp in the Bangweulu Wetlands, and with Shiwa Ng'andu. It's also possible a flying side-trip of a few days from any of the camps or lodges in the Luangwa Valley. << Click on the menu (above left) for more about Wasa , Luwombwa , Shoebill Island or Shiwa Ng'andu.
Birdwatching: Great spot for gentle bird-watchers; like Shiwa it attracts species which are absent from lower-lying areas of Zambia
- See more of our suggestions of the best places for birdwatching in Zambia
Riding: There's a stable here with horses, and short rides around the hills are low-key and very enjoyable.
- See more of our suggestions of the best places for riding in Zambia
Walking: With lovely hilly landscape, and plenty of opportunities for walking with a guide, Mutinondo is a great place to walk and explore
- See more of our suggestions of the best places for walking in Zambia
Wildlife: Though not a classic big game destination, Mutinondo's flora and smaller fauna make it a good stop for the wildlife enthusiast
- See more of our suggestions of the best places for wildlife in Zambia
Mutinondo Wilderness review
Beautiful location, very comfortable rooms, good food and extremely friendly atmosphere. We loved being able to walk unguided on excellently cleared paths. The granite whalebacks are wonderful to cl...
Unmissable Mutinondo marvels
This is a really wonderful place. It is extraordinarily beautiful country and Mike and Lari are very, very nice people; the lodge and chalets are comfortable, the atmosphere relaxed, the staff excelle...
Click on the links below to read sections from the Bradt guidebook which are related to Mutinondo Wilderness.
Where to stay Put Mutinondo Wilderness Lodge into context – read more about it in the Bradt travel guide to Zambia.
Useful links...
We want you to understand more about Mutinondo Wilderness. We're also confident that a trip there with us cost you the same or less than booking it any other way, even directly. So follow the links below.
Mutinondo Wilderness Click here to visit the Mutinondo Wilderness homepage. The owners have put together a fast, clean website with good images and helpful information.
Where to stay